Posted on February 6, 2025March 26, 2025 by Mike S

Living in Jacksonville means dealing with hot, humid summers, sudden downpours, and plenty of mosquito bites. Spending quality time in your backyard without a patio screen enclosure can feel impossible and impractical. Because it’s either too hot, too wet, or too buggy.

In fact, Jacksonville gets about 52 inches of rain a year, most of it during the summer season only. That much water can take a toll on your screen enclosure if you already have one. If you don’t, you’re probably wishing you did.

But what happens when your patio screen enclosure starts to show signs of wear and tear? Should you refurbish it or start fresh with a new one?

In this blog, we’ll take a look at each option and what it means for you, in terms of costs, benefits, and what to choose before you make the final decision.

Let’s get started.

Signs your Existing Screen Enclosure Needs a Repair

Most patio or pool screen enclosures in Jacksonville are built with aluminum frames and mesh screening, designed to handle Florida’s heat, humidity, and strong winds. But over time, all that exposure takes a toll. Even with regular upkeep, most screen enclosures last about 5 to 8 years before they need significant repairs or replacement.

But, how do you know it’s time? Look out for:

Torn or sagging screens
Rust or corrosion on the frame
Loose or missing fasteners
Mold or algae buildup
Warping or structural instability

If you notice any of these issues, you will have to decide whether a repair will do the job or if replacing the structure makes more sense. Either way, addressing the problem early can save you bigger headaches in the future.

When Refurbishing Your Screen Enclosure Make Sense

Refurbishing your screen enclosure can be an affordable solution if the structure is still in good shape. Here are some common refurbishment options:

It Needs Rescreening

If your screen is torn, brittle, or barely hanging on, it’s time for a rescreening. The cost will depend on the type of mesh you choose. Standard fiberglass screens are the most affordable option for patios and enclosures. If you need something sturdy — maybe to stand up to pets or block out more sun — pet-resistant solar screens offer extra durability and UV protection but are a bit costly.

Frame Repairs and Repainting Can’t be Ignored Anymore

Over time, aluminum frames on your patio can start to show signs of wear, which typically look like small spots of corrosion. A good cleaning, a bit of sanding, and a fresh coat of paint can help keep them in great shape. But, if you notice a patio screen enclosure that’s bent or getting loose, you don’t always need to replace the whole frame — replace the damaged part and strengthen the structure without a complete overhaul.

It Needs Hardware Replacement

If your enclosure has loose fasteners, a broken spline, or missing screws, it won’t hold up the way it’s meant to. The good news? Replacing these small parts with a quick and affordable screen enclosure repair can do the trick while keeping everything safe and making the whole structure more durable.

When Pressure Washing and Mold Removal can do the Job

Jacksonville’s humid climate can lead to mold and algae buildup on your pool screen enclosures. A thorough pressure wash and rubbing of a mildew-resistant coating can make your enclosure look new again and bug-free.

Average Cost of Refurbishing

The price of refurbishing screen enclosures in Jacksonville, Florida depends on the degree of repairs. On average:

Rescreening a standard pool enclosure: $1,200 – $3,500
Replacing damaged aluminum beams: $500 – $1,500
Repainting and cleaning: $300 – $800
Minor hardware repairs: $100 – $500

If refurbishing costs less than half of a new installation, you probably won’t have to think twice about it. You get the benefits of an upgrade without the hefty price tag, a practical choice in most cases.

When to Invest in a New Screen Enclosure

If your screen enclosure has minor issues, a simple repair might do the trick. But sometimes, patching things up just isn’t enough. Here are a few reasons why you should replace it altogether:

It has Extensive Structural Damage

If multiple beams on your patio are rusted, bent, or broken, fixing the structure might not be worth the time and resources. It’s because a weak frame isn’t just a repair issue — it’s a safety concern, especially when storms or hurricanes hit. In such cases, simply restoring the patio screen enclosure will not work, as it puts everything inside at risk.

The Design is Old and Outdated

If your enclosure is 15 to 20 years old, it might not be up to today’s building standards or even match your style. Newer designs and patio screen enclosure materials are built to last longer while giving your home a fresh, updated look.

You Need to Upgrade to High-Performance Materials

New patio or pool screen enclosures are built with stronger materials like hurricane-resistant aluminum and better UV-blocking mesh. Upgrading now means fewer repairs down the road and less time spent worrying about wear and tear. It’s a practical way to keep your outdoor space protected while cutting back on maintenance costs in the long run.

You want to Expand Your Outdoor Space

If your outdoor enclosure feels too tight, upgrading to a bigger or custom-built space can make it look spacious. It opens up your outdoor area, giving you and your family members more room to relax and enjoy.

But, what if we told you there is a way to make it feel more relaxing? Get insulated roof panels to help with temperature control, and motorized screens to adjust the entry of shade or wind with the push of a button.

Average Cost of a New Screen Enclosure

Putting in a new screen enclosure is not an easy investment, but it pays off over time. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in terms of cost.

Basic patio enclosure: $5,000 – $12,000
Standard pool enclosure: $10,000 – $30,000
Custom-designed enclosure: $20,000 – $50,000+

A new patio screen enclosure does come with an upfront cost, but it’s worth every penny. It adds value to your home and cuts down on maintenance in the long run. You get to spend less time cleaning leaves and debris and more time enjoying your space with your family and friends.

It’s Your Choice: Refurbish or Invest?

If your screen enclosure has minor issues, a simple refurbishment can keep it in good shape without breaking the bank. But if it’s badly damaged, outdated, or just not working for you anymore, replacing it with a new one is the smarter move. Take a good look at your patio screen enclosure condition, and estimate your budget, before making the final decision.

Whether you decide to refurbish or invest in a new screen enclosure, Lifetime Enclosures has you covered. With over 33 years of experience serving Jacksonville, Florida, we provide high-quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and top-tier customer service.