Why do so many people move to Florida every year? The incredible climate is a huge draw for many, along with a more affordable beach lifestyle than many other beach communities. Because of our beautiful weather, many Floridians have pools, enjoying them for several months of the year. What many people refer to as a Florida room is generally called a pool enclosure.
Pool enclosures are a fantastic way to expand your outdoor living space in Melbourne, FL. They keep pests out from mosquitoes to raccoons! They provide UV protection. They help keep your pool clean from debris, saving you money on upkeep and chemicals. A high-quality, well-built pool enclosure, such as those built by Tripod Aluminum, will last for many years.
The heat, humidity, and amazing thunderstorms that make Florida and its climate so unique also take a toll on everything. This article will look at ways to maintain your pool enclosure to protect your investment and keep it looking new, even in the Florida climate. We will discuss why maintenance matters, cleaning and inspecting your enclosure, preventing and treating corrosion, keeping gutters clear, and hurricane preparation.
Why Maintenance Matters
Regular maintenance can extend the life of your pool enclosure’s aluminum framing and screen mesh. Taking care of your enclosure can help prevent corrosion and mildew buildup. A well-maintained enclosure has a better chance of withstanding harsh weather. Proper care makes a difference.
How to Maintain Your Pool Enclosure
#1 Clean the Screens and Frame Regularly
This may seem like common sense, but with all the other things you have to do every day, tasks like this can fall by the wayside. Cleaning your screens and frame regularly is an easy task that makes a big difference in extending the life of your pool enclosure. Professionals recommend cleaning your enclosure’s screens and frame every few months, but it needs to be done more often in the Melbourne, FL, area because of the high salt content in the air due to our proximity to the ocean.
Cleaning the screens and frame is a simple process. All you need is your garden hose, mild soap, and a soft brush. Clean both the inside and outside of the screen panels. This will help prevent dirt, algae, and salt buildup that can stain or weaken the screens. If your enclosure is already stained, try a vinegar and water mix or a cleaner that is safe for aluminum. Do not use harsh chemicals.
#2 Inspect for Damage and Wear
When inspecting your pool enclosure, look for the following:
Always address small issues quickly as they can become worse fast, particularly in Florida’s drastic weather. Always do an inspection after a storm. Screens are particularly vulnerable to flying debris, like palm fronds. At Tripod Aluminum, we not only build pool enclosures, but we also offer screen repairs, so if your enclosure has sustained damage, give us a call right away.
#3 Prevent and Treat Corrosion
One of the great things about aluminum is that it is rust-resistant. That is fabulous in Florida because of our high humidity and frequent rain. However, aluminum can still experience oxidation, so it is important to prevent and treat any type of corrosion. Rinse the frame monthly and apply a protective coating, such as an aluminum sealant, for extra protection.
#4 Keep Gutters and Drainage Clear
If your pool enclosure has gutters to divert water, make sure they remain clear of debris. Clogged gutters can cause standing water which is a breeding ground for algae and mildew. Make sure the downspouts are directing water away from the pool deck. You can have a leaf guard system installed on your gutters to help prevent blockage or hire someone to clean your gutters if you can’t or don’t want to do it for any reason.
#5 Prepare for Hurricane Season
Conclusion
Your pool enclosure can not only last but also look beautiful for many years with proper care and maintenance. Cleaning your screens and frames regularly can help prevent buildup, algae, and staining. Inspecting for damage and wear can help you catch small repairs before they get worse. You can prevent corrosion with an aluminum sealant, and aluminum is already rust-resistant! Keeping your gutters clear prevents poor drainage and algae growth. Preparing for hurricane season can protect your enclosure from flying debris that can cause damage.
Tripod Aluminum is here for all your pool enclosure needs. We have been building pool enclosures in Brevard County and beyond for over 30 years! With our high quality materials and expert craftsmanship, we will build you a beautiful pool enclosure that your family can enjoy for years. If your enclosure needs an inspection or repairs, please reach out to us right away! We look forward to serving you!
