Everything You Need to Know About Pool Screens and Lanais in Florida

Florida Pool Screens & Lanais Explained | Vista Mar Pools

Discover why screened lanais are essential for Florida pools. Learn about benefits, maintenance, and why a lanai boosts value, safety, and enjoyment.

“Screened lanai over custom pool in Southwest Florida”

Everything You Need to Know About Pool Screens and Lanais in Florida

If you're building a pool in Southwest Florida, there’s one upgrade nearly every homeowner includes:

👉 The screened lanai.

More than just a bug screen, a lanai is your pool’s best friend — protecting your investment, enhancing safety, and adding serious comfort to your backyard space.

What Is a Pool Lanai or Screen Enclosure?

A pool lanai (or screen enclosure) is a permanent, aluminum-framed structure that surrounds your pool and patio area. It’s usually covered with high-tension screen mesh that allows air flow and light — but keeps everything else out.

Also known as:

• Pool cage

• Screened enclosure

• Florida room (in some areas)

At Vista Mar Pools, we design lanais to match your layout, yard, and home style.

Why Florida Pools Need Screen Enclosures

Florida’s tropical climate is paradise — but it comes with challenges. Here’s why lanais are so common in places like Cape Coral, Fort Myers, and Punta Gorda:

✅ Keeps Bugs & Critters Out

No more mosquitoes, no-see-ums, frogs, or lizards in your water.

✅ Blocks Leaves & Debris

Less cleaning, less vacuuming, and less skimming.

✅ UV & Heat Protection

Some screens block UV rays and reduce direct sun exposure, keeping the water cooler and preventing fading.

✅ Improves Safety

Helps prevent accidental access by children and pets. (Bonus: some counties require screens or fences by code.)

✅ Increases Property Value

Homes with pools and screen enclosures are in high demand — especially for resale or vacation use.

Are Pool Screens Required in Lee or Charlotte County?

While not always required by law, most new pool construction in Southwest Florida must include a safety feature — such as:

• A screened lanai

• A perimeter fence

• Pool alarms or child barriers

🏗️ At Vista Mar Pools, we include code-compliant safety measures in every new build — and most clients choose lanais for long-term convenience.

Screen Types & Custom Lanai Features

Today’s screen materials are stronger, clearer, and longer-lasting than ever before. Popular options include:

• Standard mesh: Affordable and effective

• No-see-um mesh: Ultra-tight weave for small bugs

• Panoramic screen panels: Clear views, fewer frame lines

• Privacy screens: Filter sun and add backyard seclusion

You can also add:✅ Ceiling fans✅ Recessed lighting✅ Pet doors✅ Hurricane-rated upgrades

Maintenance & Lifespan of Screen Enclosures

With minimal care, your screen lanai can last 10–15 years or more.

Maintenance Tips:

• Hose off debris regularly

• Check for small tears and patch quickly

• Inspect after storms and hurricanes

💡 Vista Mar Pools works with experienced lanai contractors to ensure your screen is built to last.

Add Comfort, Value, and Peace of Mind with a Screened Pool

A screened lanai isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s part of what makes pool life in Florida truly enjoyable year-round.

If you're building a new pool, we’ll help design and install a custom lanai that fits your style and budget.

Ready to Build Your Pool + Lanai Combo?

Let Vista Mar Pools turn your backyard into a bug-free, leaf-free, all-day oasis.

📍 Serving Cape Coral, Fort Myers, North Port, and Punta Gorda

👉 Start your pool design now Let’s create a pool you’ll love — and protect it the way Florida intended.