If you’ve been dreaming of adding an outdoor enclosure to upgrade your backyard, you’ve probably wondered how long the process takes. Whether you’re planning a screened patio, pool enclosure, or motorized pergola, the truth is that every project is unique.
While we would love to give a single standard answer, the reality is that timelines fluctuate significantly based on a variety of factors—from your specific municipality to manufacturer shipping times.
Let’s break down the variables that influence your outdoor enclosure construction timeline, so you understand the process and know what to expect.
The Biggest Variable: Permitting and Municipalities
One of the most significant factors in your project timeline is the permitting process. Every new pool screen enclosure or structure in Florida requires a building permit to ensure it meets local codes for wind ratings, setbacks, and safety.
However, timelines for approval vary wildly depending on the municipality. Some counties process permits quickly, while others have distinct timelines and backlogs. Because each municipality operates differently, permitting is often the step that dictates the pace of the pre-construction phase.
Winning Your Homeowners’ Association’s Approval
If you live in an HOA community, you will likely need to submit drawings or design specs before we can apply for permits or begin construction. Much like municipalities, HOAs have their own schedules. Some boards meet monthly, while others process approvals on a rolling basis. This step is largely out of the builder’s control, but getting your application in early is key to keeping things moving.
The Construction Process: Quality Takes Time
Before the first beam is placed on your property, a significant amount of work happens behind the scenes to ensure a precision fit.
- Engineering and Custom Fabrication: Every project undergoes a rigorous engineering phase to ensure it meets Florida’s strict wind and safety codes. Rather than “building on the fly,” we create detailed layouts and custom-cut every piece in our warehouse before delivery. This precision fabrication minimizes on-site errors and ensures a higher-quality finished product.
- Site Preparation and Installation: Once the custom-cut materials are delivered and the site is prepared, the physical build begins.
- Pool Enclosures: These structures are meticulously assembled to handle Florida’s unique environment, including heavy rain and salt air. The installation timeline depends primarily on the complexity of the design and the total footprint.
- Screen Patios & Lanais: While these projects often have a smaller footprint, the timeline still accounts for material availability and the necessary curing time for any new concrete slabs or pavers required for the foundation.
Schedule a Free Consultation for a Personalized Estimate
Because there are so many moving parts—from the permitting office to the shipping dock—it is difficult to put a generic timeline on a custom project.
At Absolute Aluminum, we have extensive experience navigating these local municipalities and HOA requirements. While we can’t control the permit office, we can manage the process efficiently to minimize delays.
Ready to discuss your specific needs?
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We can look at your specific property, discuss current lead times, and give you a much clearer picture of what to expect for your unique project.
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