Why Do Florida Homes Have Pool Cages?
Updated: Sep 9
Author: Mike Delahoz, Florida Pool Enclosures CEO
Florida homes commonly have pool cages because screened enclosures make outdoor areas easier to use in the state’s warm, humid climate. They help reduce mosquitoes and leaves all while creating a more comfortable barrier between the pool area and the surrounding yard.
A pool cage is not a solid building or hurricane shelter, and its exact benefits depend on its design, screen material and condition. However, for many Florida homeowners, it is one of the most practical ways to make a swimming pool cleaner, more comfortable and easier to maintain throughout the year.
Florida Pool Enclosures has designed and installed more than 20,000 custom enclosures in Central Florida since 1996. Here is what homeowners should understand about why pool cages are so common across Central Florida.
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What Is a Pool Cage?
“Pool cage” is the term many Floridians use for an aluminum-framed structure covered with screen material. It typically surrounds the pool and pool deck and may connect directly to the home.
You may also hear these structures called:
Pool enclosures
Screened pool enclosures
Screen cages
Lanai enclosures
A pool cage allows air to move through the space. The screen creates a barrier without completely closing the pool area off from Florida’s outdoor environment.
Why Are Pool Cages So Popular in Florida?
They Help Keep Mosquitoes and Other Insects Out
Florida’s warm temperatures and humidity create favorable conditions for mosquitoes, flies and other insects. A properly screened pool enclosure reduces the number of bugs entering the pool deck, thus, making it more comfortable to swim, relax or eat outside.
A pool cage will not make the area completely insect-proof. Small openings around doors, damaged screen panels and worn door sweeps can still allow pests to enter. This is why the type of screen also matters. Homeowners concerned about smaller insects such as no-see-ums may can get a finer mesh than a standard insect screen.
They Reduce Leaves and Debris in the Pool
Trees, landscaping, wind and afternoon storms can quickly deposit leaves, twigs and other debris into an uncovered pool. A screened enclosure intercepts much of this material before it reaches the water.
Homeowners may still need to clean the pool and deck, but less debris can mean less time spent skimming the surface and emptying baskets. It can also help keep the pool area looking more inviting between routine cleanings.
They Make Outdoor Living More Comfortable
One of the main advantages of living in Florida is the ability to spend time outside during much of the year. Unfortunately, insects, intense sunlight and frequent debris can make an uncovered pool deck less enjoyable. A pool cage creates a defined outdoor living area that can accommodate seating, dining and entertaining in addition to swimming. Depending on the screen selected, the enclosure may also reduce glare and provide a limited amount of shade without eliminating airflow.
They Create Separation Between the Pool and Yard
A pool enclosure can create an additional boundary between the pool area and the rest of the property. Properly configured doors and gates can help control access, but homeowners should not assume that every pool cage automatically satisfies Florida’s pool-safety requirements.
Florida law requires qualifying residential pools to have at least one approved safety feature. An enclosure may serve as that feature when it meets the applicable barrier requirements. These requirements address matters such as barrier height, openings and self-closing, self-latching gates. Homeowners should confirm that a proposed enclosure complies with current building and pool-safety rules. A pool cage should never replace active adult supervision around the water.
They Can Help Limit Wildlife Intrusion
A complete and well-maintained enclosure can reduce the likelihood of birds, frogs, snakes and other animals entering the pool area. This can be particularly useful for homes near lakes, conservation areas and wooded properties.
A screen enclosure should not be treated as guaranteed protection against wildlife. Torn screens, open doors and gaps along the base of the enclosure can create entry points. Any damaged areas should be repaired promptly.
They Can Complement the Home’s Design
Modern pool cages can be customized around the layout and appearance of the home. Roof styles such as mansard, dome, gable and shed designs create different sightlines and amounts of usable space. Homeowners can also select frame colors, screen materials, door locations and structural configurations that suit the property. A well-planned enclosure should feel like an extension of the home rather than a structure added as an afterthought.
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Are Pool Cages Required in Florida?
Florida does not require every residential swimming pool to have a complete screen cage. State law does require qualifying residential pools to use at least one approved safety feature. One available option is an enclosure that isolates the pool from access to the home and meets Florida’s pool-barrier requirements. Other approved options may include certain pool covers, door and window alarms, self-closing and self-latching doors, or qualifying pool alarms.
An enclosure being present does not automatically mean it is compliant. Florida’s barrier requirements include specific standards for height, openings, placement and gate operation. Homeowners can review the current requirements in Florida Statutes Sections 515.27 and 515.29 and should verify applicable local permitting requirements before beginning a project.
Do Pool Cages Provide UV Protection?
Certain screen materials can reduce some solar exposure and glare, but the amount varies by product. Standard insect screen, solar screen and privacy-oriented screen do not perform identically. A screened enclosure should not be treated as complete protection from ultraviolet radiation. Sunscreen, protective clothing and appropriate shade remain important when spending time outdoors. Homeowners who want greater shade or solar reduction should ask about screen options designed for that purpose.
Do Pool Cages Provide Privacy?
A standard pool screen provides limited privacy. It may make the pool area feel more separated from the yard, but neighbors may still be able to see through it. Homeowners seeking greater privacy can consider specialty materials such as Florida Glass privacy screen. These products are often installed along lower wall sections or selected areas of an enclosure. Because privacy materials can also affect airflow and wind load, their placement should be considered as part of the enclosure’s overall design.
Can a Pool Cage Withstand a Hurricane?
Pool enclosures in Florida must be designed and permitted according to applicable structural and wind-load requirements.
The performance of an enclosure during severe weather can depend on:
Its original engineering
The age and condition of the aluminum
Fasteners and structural connections
Existing corrosion or damage
The screen material
The property’s location and applicable wind requirements
The strength and direction of the storm
Homeowners should inspect their enclosures regularly and schedule a professional evaluation if they notice loose fasteners, corrosion, movement, bent framing or damaged structural components. After severe weather, avoid using or attempting to repair an enclosure that appears unstable.
Should You Repair, Rescreen or Replace Your Pool Cage?
The right solution depends on the condition of both the screen and the aluminum structure.
What You Notice | Possible Next Step |
One or two torn screen panels | Individual screen repair |
Brittle or failing screen throughout the enclosure | Complete rescreening |
Loose spline, damaged door hardware or gaps | Targeted repair |
Visible corrosion or structural movement | Professional enclosure inspection |
Sound structure with an outdated appearance | Discuss renovation and screen options |
Bent or significantly damaged framing | Evaluate structural repair or replacement |
A professional inspection can help determine whether the issue is limited to the screen or involves the enclosure’s structural components.
Is a Pool Cage Worth It for a Florida Home?
A pool cage may be worthwhile if you want to spend less time dealing with insects and debris while making the pool deck more comfortable for everyday use. Its value depends on the property, surrounding landscaping, desired level of privacy and condition of any existing enclosure.
The best enclosure is one designed around the home, pool deck, local requirements and the way the homeowner plans to use the space.
Explore Custom Pool Enclosures in Central Florida
Florida Pool Enclosures has designed and installed custom pool cages throughout Central Florida since 1996. Our family-owned and veteran-operated team can help you compare enclosure styles, screen materials and design options for your property.
Explore our custom pool-enclosure options or call 407-260-2800 to request a free quote.
Florida Pool Enclosures Proudly Services the Following Areas:
Orange County, Seminole County, Lake County, Osceola County, Volusia County, and Broward County. Our team commonly operates in Metro West, Doctor Phillips, Windermere, Kissimmee, Winter Garden, Gotha, Oviedo, Oakland, Apopka, College Park, Winter Park, Sorrento, Longwood, Altamonte Springs, Lake Mary, Heathrow, & Sanford
