Many Florida homeowners agree that a pool cage is one of the best investments they’ve ever made. The multiple levels of protection it offers make the pool an enjoyable place for the entire family.
Thanks to the high demand, pool enclosures in Florida are becoming more and more sophisticated every year. If you want your cage to be up to date, should you consider replacing it? Or maybe a retrofit will be enough?
Pool cage replacement costs in Florida aren’t always low. We’ve created a short guide to help you understand when retrofitting is the best option and how to save on new pool cages.
What Is Pool Cage Retrofitting
Pool cage retrofitting involves upgrading or repairing your existing enclosure. It keeps the original structure in place, so you don’t have to worry about tearing it down and getting the space ready for the new one.
A retrofit can include a variety of changes to your pool enclosure. Some of the popular options in Florida are:
- Replacing damaged screens
- Reinforcing framing
- Upgrading fasteners
If building codes have changed since the time you installed the pool cage, a retrofit may be sufficient to keep it compliant. Meanwhile, you can enjoy aesthetic improvements that often come with newer parts.
When Retrofitting Makes Sense
The main reason to get a retrofit done is to avoid a costly replacement while addressing problem areas. Here are a few situations when pool cage repair in Florida (as opposed to replacement) makes sense:
- Screens are in bad shape
- Parts need upgrading to meet current code requirements
- Minor storm damage
When done at the right time, a retrofit can restore safety and performance while preserving the original investment. It also reduces the construction time, so you can get back to enjoying your pool faster.
However, retrofitting only works when the enclosure’s foundation is still reliable. Only a professional can evaluate the integrity of the existing pool cage and understand whether it’s sound enough.
When Replacement Is Recommended
In Florida’s harsh weather conditions, older enclosures can reach a point where repairs are no longer enough.
Top signs you need a replacement are:
- Widespread frame corrosion
- Structural weakness
- Excessive algae growth
- Major storm or hurricane damage
- Multiple previous repairs
- Need for a new design
Replacement is definitely a bigger project than retrofitting. However, you can enjoy multiple benefits, including full building code compliance and a modern design. A new pool cage can also improve curb appeal and increase the value of your property
Cost Comparison
Cost often plays a major role in retrofitting vs replacement decisions. Many homeowners prefer to save. However, avoiding replacement may not always be the best solution. The costs of a retrofit depend on many factors, including:
- Extent of the damage
- Type of required upgrades
- Accessibility of the enclosure
- Choice of contractors
Pool cage replacement cost in Florida depends on the type of materials and labor necessary to complete the project. While replacement tends to be the more expensive option, it may have the highest ROI.
How Absolute Aluminum Evaluates Your Cage
The team at Absolute Aluminum inspects your existing cage to find issues that may or may not be fixed. Pool cage professionals look at:
- Frame
- Screens
- Fasteners
- Structural integrity
- Building code compliance
After the inspection, we show homeowners the existing issues and explain what the best option is. Our team is always transparent about costs and obstacles that may arise along the way.
Schedule a Pool Cage Inspection To Determine Whether Retrofitting or Replacement Makes the Most Sense
If you feel that the time has come to change something about your pool cage, you need professional advice.
At Absolute Aluminum, we’ll evaluate your pool enclosure and offer different options. Our goal is to ensure the safety and compliance of your cage without forcing you to overspend. Reach out and schedule an inspection today!