When a Pool Cage Remodel Is Better Than Rescreening Alone
- Thinking about a pool cage remodel vs. rescreen? You may also need to repair the structural framing, fasteners, and footers.
- Homeowners should decide whether they want to rescreen only broken screens or upgrade to higher-quality material.
- A remodel involves replacing all screens and fasteners so they age at the same rate, while a retrofit specifically converts walls into an Absoview (picture window) for a panoramic view.
If your pool cage is looking old and worn, it’s usually because of the screens. Over time, screens can start to sag, get torn, become clogged with debris, and slip entirely out of the frame to flap in the wind. You can address these problems through pool cage rescreening, a simple process of removing damaged screen mesh and replacing it with new mesh while using the same frames, clips, and fasteners. However, while screens make up the vast majority of your pool cage’s surface area, the whole cage might need more repairs. Take a closer look at why a comprehensive pool cage remodel, or retrofit, may be a better choice than just rescreening.
Limits of Rescreening
As a general rule of thumb, pool cages should be rescreened every five to 15 years. But even if you’re diligent about pool cage rescreening in Florida, there are many aspects of disrepair and age that this chore won’t cover. These include:
- The fasteners oxidize. After years of exposure to salty air and heavy rain, the fasteners will start to corrode. In a remodel, we replace all fasteners and screens simultaneously so the entire cage wears the same and stays secure.
- Outdated Design. Just rescreening your cage won’t give you the aesthetic benefits of a modern layout. If you want to eliminate obstructive vertical posts, you may want to consider a retrofit, which specifically turns at least one wall into an Absoview (picture window).
- The pool cage can fall out of code compliance. Today’s requirements are more stringent. A structural “tune-up” gives you the safety benefits of modern materials and fresh engineering.
Structural Aging and Maintenance
Well-built aluminum cages can last up to 30 years, but during the latter half of that span, the frame can sag and lose its protective coating. The best way to minimize structural aging is with maintenance and occasional retrofitting projects.
These repairs might include:
- Replacing old, corroded fasteners
- Converting standard walls into an Absoview for an open-view design
- Upgrading the door hardware and locks
- Replacing screens
- Replacing cable ties
Remodel Benefits
A remodel is a comprehensive restoration that consists of a full rescreening and a complete fastener replacement. Unlike simple patch repairs, a remodel ensures the entire enclosure receives a needed tune-up using fresh materials.
By replacing all screens and screws simultaneously, you ensure every component ages at the same rate, effectively extending the life of the cage. Upgrading to new fasteners is critical to maintaining structural tension and preventing unsightly rust streaks. While on-site, you can also add Nebula lights or a pergola; while these are separate services, they are excellent additional components to complete your backyard upgrade.
Long-Term Cost Savings
By investing in a pool cage remodel vs. rescreen, you can save significantly every year.
A remodeling project directly saves you money through:
- Minimizing the pool cleaning and chemicals you need to enjoy your pool throughout the year
- More reliable protection for your pool’s hardware, such as the pump
- Reducing maintenance costs each season
By scheduling a remodeling project for off-peak seasons, you can even save money because you don’t have to make unplanned emergency repairs.
Book an Inspection to Determine Whether Rescreening or Remodeling Provides Better Long-Term Value
If you think your pool cage might need to be rescreened or remodeled, Absolute Aluminum is here to help you choose between a pool cage remodel vs. rescreen. We provide repairs, rescreening, retrofitting, and more. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and receive a professional assessment of what your unique pool cage needs.