Your Most Common Questions, Answered

We schedule projects by the week rather than assigning a specific start day in advance. Your work may begin on any day within the week provided to you, depending on how projects already underway progress.

This approach allows us to respond responsibly to field conditions while keeping your project moving toward its scheduled construction window.

On the Saturday afternoon before your scheduled week, we will send you our best estimate of when we expect to be onsite.

The estimate may be communicated as Monday, mid-to-late week, or late in the coming week/early the following week. Each estimate represents an approximate five-workday scheduling window rather than a guaranteed arrival day.

Because construction schedules can change as work progresses, this remains an estimate. We will continue keeping you informed if anything affects the plan.

Around 4:35 p.m. the day before your scheduled visit, we will send another update with the names of the technicians coming to your home and their estimated arrival time for the following day.

Yes. Weather, site conditions, inspections, material needs, and the progress of projects ahead of yours can affect the schedule.

Our goal is to complete your scheduled activity within the assigned week. When that is not possible, we will communicate what has changed and what you can expect next.

Yes. Around 4:35 p.m. the day before each visit, we will send you the names of the technicians coming to your home and their estimated arrival time for the following day.

Arrival times may change as our crews complete earlier work and travel between projects.

Your draw payment is due one week before our first scheduled activity.

Your final payment is due on the day the primary contracted construction is completed.

We will communicate with you as each payment milestone approaches so you understand what is due and how it relates to the next stage of your project.

When you use one of our financing options, we will request the appropriate funds from the lender as they become due under the financing arrangement.

Our preferred payment methods are check or bank wire. Contact our office at 941-497-7777 for wire instructions or assistance with your payment.

Absolute Aluminum
1220 Ogden Road
Venice, FL 34285

No special preparation is required. When it is convenient, clearing furniture from the deck gives our team easier access and helps the prescan move efficiently.

Remove any plants you want to preserve before construction begins.

Trim the plants that remain to provide at least two feet of clearance from the enclosure walls. Three feet is preferred whenever possible. This gives our technicians the room needed to work safely and helps protect your landscaping.

You may use the space when our crews are not onsite.

Before each scheduled visit, remove furniture, plants, decorations, and other items from the work area. The space must remain clear while our technicians are onsite, including during the final fabrication measurement and scan.

Please reply to our emails and text messages to confirm that you received them. A simple “YES” is helpful and appreciated.

Our text messages may come from our main office number, 941-497-7777, and our emails will come from an Absolute Aluminum email address.

Your confirmation helps us know that important scheduling and project information has reached you.

Provide a current cell phone number where we can reach you for urgent questions, field conditions, or last minute scheduling changes.

When more than one homeowner or decision-maker needs project updates, provide the contact information for each person.

Text and email are usually the most effective ways to communicate because they allow information to be shared quickly and create a clear record that our teams can reference.

Absolutely. Let us know when you prefer a phone conversation, and the appropriate member of our team will contact you.

Submit requests and changes in writing, preferably by email.

Written communication helps us confirm exactly what is being requested, involve the appropriate team members, and maintain a record that both you and Absolute Aluminum can reference. This protects clarity and helps prevent misunderstandings as the project moves forward.

Your permit application enters the municipality’s review process. The municipality may review the plans, request additional information, or issue corrections before approving the permit.

Our team monitors the application and responds to municipal requests as they arise. We will continue keeping you informed as your project moves toward approval.

Permit-review times vary by municipality, project type, workload, and whether additional information is requested.

Because the review is controlled by the municipality, we cannot guarantee an approval date. We will monitor the application and communicate meaningful updates as they occur.

Yes. You will receive milestone communications as your project progresses and when there is information that affects what happens next.

You will also receive an introduction from our Director of Client Engagement, who is available as an additional point of contact during the remainder of your project.

Our permitting and production teams will review the request and determine what is needed. This may involve revised plans, engineering information, documents, or clarification from another party.

We will respond to the municipality and let you know if the request affects your project or requires action from you.

Permit issuance is an important milestone. It allows your project to move from municipal review into the next stages of production preparation.

The project will move into layout review, where the information needed for fabrication and construction is reviewed and prepared.

Not necessarily. Permit approval allows the project to move forward, but layout, fabrication preparation, material readiness, and scheduling may still need to be completed before onsite construction begins.

We will continue communicating with you as those milestones are reached.

During layout, our team reviews the project information needed to prepare the work for fabrication and construction.

This stage helps confirm that the project details are ready to move into the next part of production.

You will receive an update when the Layout Final Review has been completed and the project moves into Fabrication Overview.

This milestone means the project has advanced beyond final layout review and is moving closer to fabrication and scheduling.

No. Layout completion is an important production milestone, but it is not the construction schedule.

Once the remaining preparation and material requirements are complete, our scheduling team will communicate the anticipated construction window.

When an issue, unforeseen condition, or other concern stops onsite progress, the responsible field supervisor or production manager will speak with you onsite or contact you by phone.

That communication will explain what happened, what the next steps are, and when you can expect the next update.

The complete solution may not be known immediately. The communication will explain what is known and what happens next.

Yes. Field installation technicians will communicate issues, concerns, unexpected conditions, and client requests to field management when they are identified.

This allows the appropriate manager to review the situation while the crew is still onsite and determine the best next step.

Yes. Our crews will take photographs during every site visit and upload them to the project record through the Monday.com mobile application.

These photographs document progress, completed work, field conditions, items requiring review, and the condition of the project before the crew leaves.

Whenever you are available, the crew will complete a walk-through with you before leaving the jobsite.

The walk-through includes reviewing the day’s progress, confirming that items such as doors, handles, and locks operate correctly, and asking whether you see anything requiring attention.

The crew will address items that can reasonably be corrected before leaving. Anything remaining will be documented and communicated for follow-up.

Point it out to the crew or field supervisor while they are onsite whenever possible.

Addressing a concern while the technicians, tools, and materials are already present may allow us to resolve it immediately and avoid an additional service visit.

The installation technician will communicate your request to the field supervisor.

Field supervisors may authorize additional work while the crew is onsite. When the work can be approved and completed safely, correctly, and with the available time and materials, we will make every reasonable effort to address it during the current visit.

The technician will bring the request to field management. The field supervisor determines whether the work can be authorized and completed during that visit.

This protects clarity regarding scope, responsibility, materials, and any additional cost.

We will explain why it cannot be completed during the current visit and identify the next step.

Depending on the request, that may include additional review, pricing, materials, scheduling, or a separate service visit.

Yes. Rain, lightning, wind, extreme heat, saturated ground, and other conditions may affect whether work can be completed safely or correctly.

Weather may also affect projects scheduled before yours, which can create changes later in the schedule.

We will communicate when a known change affects your planned work.

When an exact revised date is not yet available, we will explain what has changed, what happens next, and when you can expect another update.

Substantial completion means our production team has completed the contracted construction and the new outdoor living space is ready for its intended use.

Some remaining steps may still follow, including Quality Assurance, punch-list work, municipal inspections, permit closeout, or final documentation.

Final payment is due in accordance with the terms of your agreement when the project reaches substantial completion.

Your invoice will be emailed from our office. Payment may also be made by mailing a check or calling 941-497- 7777 to pay by credit card.

You can expect the following remaining steps, as applicable:

• A detailed Quality Assurance review.

• Documentation and coordination of any identified items.

• Municipal inspection and permit-closeout activity.

• A feedback request from GuildQuality.

• Applicable care, maintenance, and warranty information.

The Quality Assurance review is a detailed inspection of the completed contracted work.

The review is generally completed within three weeks of substantial completion.

The item will be documented and reviewed with you.

The Quality Assurance outcome will be discussed with you onsite, by FaceTime, or by phone before the written follow-up is sent. Any work requiring attention will then be coordinated with the appropriate team.

The Zero-Defect report documents the Quality Assurance review and confirms the condition of the completed project or identifies any remaining items requiring attention.

It creates a clear record for both the client and Absolute Aluminum.

A final inspection is the municipality’s inspection of the completed permitted work.

Permit closeout occurs when the municipality records the permit as complete and closed. Depending on the municipality, these may happen at the same time or as separate events.

You will receive a communication when we confirm that the final inspection has passed.

When the municipality passes the inspection and closes the permit at the same time, you may receive one combined communication confirming both milestones.

Some municipalities record final inspection approval before completing the administrative permit-closeout process.

When that occurs, we will notify you when the inspection passes and again when the permit is officially closed.

Leave the permit package posted and accessible until our team confirms that all required municipal inspections and permit-closeout activity are complete.

Contact Absolute Aluminum at 941-497-7777 and explain the issue you are experiencing.

Providing photographs and a clear description can help our service team understand the concern and determine the appropriate next step.

Yes. Applicable care, maintenance, and warranty information will be provided as the project reaches completion.

The information may vary based on the products installed as part of your project.

When your project includes an adjustable StruXure pergola, register the warranty within 30 days.

The registration information will be included with the applicable completion resources.

Pool cages (also called screen enclosures) are extremely common in Florida because they help homeowners enjoy their outdoor space with fewer hassles.

Florida’s warm climate means outdoor living is a big part of everyday life, but it also brings insects, falling leaves, and debris from storms. A pool enclosure helps keep bugs, leaves, and debris out of the pool while still allowing fresh air and sunshine.

They also reduce pool maintenance, help keep the water cleaner, and create a more comfortable outdoor environment for relaxing, dining, and entertaining.

For many homeowners, a pool cage essentially turns their backyard into a protected outdoor living room.

A pool cage is a large aluminum frame structure covered with durable screen mesh that surrounds a pool, patio, or lanai.

The structure allows air and light to pass through while keeping insects and debris out. Most pool cages include screened walls, a screened roof, and one or more screen doors for access.

Modern pool enclosures are engineered to meet Florida wind codes and are designed to be both durable and visually appealing. Some newer designs even feature panoramic screens with fewer aluminum bars, creating a clearer view of the backyard and surrounding landscape.

A pergola is an outdoor structure designed to provide shade, comfort, and architectural style to your outdoor living space.

Pergolas typically feature a framework of posts and overhead louvers or slats. Modern pergola systems can include adjustable louvers that open or close to control sunlight, shade, and even rain.

Homeowners often install pergolas to create comfortable outdoor areas for dining, relaxing, cooking, or entertaining. They can also be enhanced with lighting, fans, heaters, and roll-down screens to extend outdoor living throughout the year.

In many ways, a pergola helps transform your backyard into an extension of your indoor living space.

Outdoor living improvements are one of the most desirable home upgrades in Florida.

Features that can enhance both lifestyle and property value include:

• Pool and patio screen enclosures
• Pergolas or covered outdoor seating areas
• Outdoor lighting for nighttime enjoyment
• Screen upgrades or enclosure remodeling
• Outdoor kitchens and entertaining spaces

These upgrades not only make the home more enjoyable day-to-day but also make properties more appealing to future buyers who are looking for Florida’s signature indoor-outdoor lifestyle.

LED lighting systems designed specifically for outdoor enclosures are typically the best choice for lanais and pool areas.

Many homeowners install integrated cage lighting that mounts directly to the enclosure structure. These systems provide even illumination across the entire outdoor space while remaining discreet during the daytime.

Modern outdoor lighting can also include color-changing options that allow homeowners to set different moods for relaxing evenings, entertaining guests, or celebrating holidays.

Proper lighting can dramatically extend how often homeowners use their outdoor space after sunset.

Pool cages are engineered structures that must meet Florida building codes for wind resistance, but they are not designed to be hurricane shelters.

Their primary purpose is to keep insects and debris out while creating a comfortable outdoor space. During major storms, high winds and flying debris can still damage enclosure screens or structural components.

However, professionally engineered enclosures are designed with safety and structural integrity in mind, and proper permitting and installation are important to ensure the structure meets local wind requirements.

Outdoor living features require occasional maintenance to stay in great condition, especially in Florida’s sun, humidity, and coastal air.

Common maintenance tasks include:

• Replacing or repairing damaged screens
• Inspecting and tightening enclosure fasteners
• Checking structural connections and hardware
• Cleaning enclosure frames and surfaces
• Inspecting lighting systems and electrical components

Routine maintenance helps extend the lifespan of outdoor structures and ensures they continue to function safely and look their best.

It depends on your specific insurance policy and the type of structure.

Many homeowners insurance policies in Florida provide coverage for structures attached to the home—such as a lanai enclosure or covered patio—because they are considered part of the main dwelling. Detached structures like pergolas may fall under a separate category called “other structures” coverage.

However, hurricane deductibles in Florida are often higher than standard deductibles, and some policies have limitations or exclusions for certain outdoor features.

Because coverage varies between policies, the best way to know for sure is to:

• Review your insurance policy documents
• Ask your insurance agent what outdoor structures are covered
• Confirm the hurricane deductible that applies to your property

Understanding your coverage ahead of time can help prevent surprises after a storm.

In Florida, contractors who build or modify structural features like pool enclosures, pergolas, and gutters are required to hold a valid contractor’s license.

You can verify a contractor’s license through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) website. This allows homeowners to confirm that a contractor’s license is active and in good standing.

Before hiring a contractor, it’s also wise to ask for proof of:

• General liability insurance
• Workers’ compensation insurance

These protections help ensure that both the homeowner and the workers are covered if an accident occurs during the project.

You can also check online reviews, ask for references, and confirm that the contractor pulls the proper permits required by your local municipality.

Taking a few minutes to verify these details can help protect your home and ensure your project is completed safely and professionally.

Pool cages help significantly reduce mosquitoes and other insects, but they cannot guarantee complete protection.

The screen mesh used in most enclosures is designed to block larger insects such as mosquitoes, flies, and wasps while still allowing airflow through the structure. However, mosquitoes can occasionally enter through open doors, small gaps, or damaged screens.

Many homeowners choose tighter mesh options, often called “no-see-um screens,” which are designed to block even smaller insects for improved protection.

Keeping screens in good condition and repairing tears promptly helps maintain the effectiveness of the enclosure.

The lifespan of pool cage screens in Florida typically ranges from 8 to 15 years, depending on the screen material, exposure to weather, and overall maintenance.

Florida’s strong sun, humidity, and occasional storms gradually weaken screen material over time. Homes located near the coast may experience faster wear due to salt exposure.

Signs that screens may need replacement include:

• Tears or holes in the mesh
• Loose or sagging screens
• Brittleness or discoloration
• Screens pulling away from the frame

Many homeowners choose to replace screens as part of a larger enclosure refresh or remodeling project to restore the appearance and performance of the structure.

Yes, most outdoor structures in Florida require permits.

Structures such as pool enclosures, pergolas, screen rooms, and major structural modifications typically require permits and engineering approval to ensure they meet Florida building codes and local wind load requirements.

Permits help verify that the structure is installed safely and can withstand the weather conditions common in Florida, including high winds and storms.

While the permit process may vary by county or municipality, homeowners should always work with contractors who properly pull permits and follow local regulations. This protects both the homeowner and the integrity of the structure.