How to Prepare Your Pool Enclosure for Hurricane Season
Florida's hurricane season, which officially runs from June 1 through November 30, brings unique challenges for pool enclosure owners. These structures, while designed to withstand normal weather conditions, can be vulnerable to the extreme winds and flying debris that hurricanes bring. Proper preparation is essential not only to protect your investment but also to prevent your enclosure from becoming a source of dangerous debris during a storm.
At Screening Dunrite, we've helped countless homeowners prepare for and recover from hurricane damage to their pool enclosures. This comprehensive guide will walk you through essential steps to prepare your pool enclosure for hurricane season, helping you minimize potential damage and ensure your family's safety when severe weather threatens.
Understanding Hurricane Risks to Pool Enclosures
Before diving into specific preparation techniques, it's important to understand exactly how hurricanes threaten pool enclosures:
Wind Forces
Hurricanes create multiple types of wind stress on enclosures:
Direct Pressure: Strong winds pushing directly against screen panels and structural elements
Negative Pressure (Suction): Wind flowing over and around the enclosure creates lifting forces
Oscillating Forces: Rapidly changing wind directions create vibration and stress on connection points
Wind-Driven Rain: Water penetration can add weight and increase wind resistance
Flying Debris
Perhaps the greatest threat comes from wind-borne projectiles:
Landscape Materials: Tree branches, palm fronds, and landscape rocks
Construction Materials: Loose shingles, siding, and building materials from nearby structures
Outdoor Items: Unsecured furniture, decorations, and equipment
Debris Chain Reactions: Once one panel is penetrated, the screen material itself can become debris
Structural Vulnerabilities
Certain parts of your enclosure are particularly susceptible to hurricane damage:
Screen Panels: Large surface areas catch wind like sails
Fastener Points: Where screws and bolts connect components
Door Assemblies: Hinges, closers, and latches that can fail under pressure
Roof Structures: Particularly vulnerable to lifting forces
Attachment Points: Where the enclosure connects to your home or deck
Essential Pre-Season Preparation (April-May)
The months before hurricane season begins are the ideal time for thorough preparation:
Professional Inspection
Consider having your enclosure professionally evaluated before hurricane season:
What to Expect:
Comprehensive structural assessment
Fastener and connection point evaluation
Hurricane cable system inspection
Screen condition assessment
Written report with specific recommendations
Value Proposition: Professional inspection typically costs $150-$300 but can identify critical vulnerabilities before they lead to catastrophic failure during a storm.
Fastener Maintenance
One of the most critical yet often overlooked aspects of hurricane preparation is fastener maintenance:
Why It Matters: Rusted or damaged fasteners can fail during high winds, compromising the entire structure. Even a single failed connection point can initiate a catastrophic "unzipping" effect during a storm.
DIY Approach:
Inspect all visible fasteners for rust, corrosion, or looseness
Replace any rusted or damaged fasteners
Always replace rusted screws with the next size up (replace #10 with #12, #12 with #14)
Use stainless steel fasteners for maximum corrosion resistance
Apply rust reformer to any stripped screws that cannot be removed
Product Recommendation: TAPCON 3/16-in x 3-1/4-in Stainless Steel Concrete Anchors (75-Pack) - $49.99
Pros: Stainless steel for maximum corrosion resistance, designed specifically for concrete anchoring
Cons: Higher initial cost than standard fasteners
Best for: Replacing deck anchoring fasteners and critical structural connections
Hurricane Cable Inspection and Replacement
Hurricane cables are critical safety components designed to prevent your enclosure's roof from lifting during high winds:
Technical Details: Hurricane cables typically consist of a triangle piece of metal attached to a metal tie-down that fastens to your deck with a Tapcon. These cables help secure the roof structure to your concrete deck, preventing uplift during high winds.
Inspection Process:
Check each cable for signs of fraying, rust, or damage
Ensure anchoring points are secure and free from corrosion
Verify proper tension—cables should be taut but not overstretched
Confirm all connection hardware is intact and properly secured
DIY Cable Replacement Steps:
Remove the old cable by unscrewing the Tapcon fastener
Clean the anchoring area thoroughly
Pre-drill a new hole if necessary (often required when the original hole has worn)
Install the new hurricane cable with a fresh 3-inch Tapcon
Ensure proper tension according to manufacturer specifications
Product Recommendation: Hurricane Cable Replacement Kit - $45.99
Pros: Includes all necessary hardware and detailed installation instructions
Cons: Professional installation recommended for optimal safety
Best for: Replacing damaged or corroded hurricane cables
Screen Condition Assessment
Damaged or deteriorated screens can tear easily during storms, initiating a cascade of further damage:
What to Look For:
Existing tears or holes
Brittle or faded material
Loose sections or sagging
Areas where spline is pulling out of tracks
Decision Points:
Small tears (under 3 inches): Can be repaired with screen patches
Multiple small damages: Consider partial rescreening of affected panels
Widespread deterioration: Full rescreening may be warranted before hurricane season
Professional Insight: "Many homeowners don't realize that screen condition affects structural integrity during storms. Once one section tears, wind can enter the enclosure and create internal pressure that damages more screens and potentially the frame itself." - Screening Dunrite Technical Director
Door Maintenance and Reinforcement
Doors are often the first components to fail during hurricanes due to their movable nature:
Critical Components to Check:
Door closure mechanisms (pneumatic closers)
Hinges and hinge screws
Latching hardware
Door frame connections to the main enclosure
Door Closure Replacement:
The pneumatic closer (often called a "door pump") is particularly vulnerable to failure. Replacing this component before hurricane season is a wise preventative measure.
Step-by-Step Replacement:
Remove the existing door closure by unscrewing it from both the door and the jamb
Clean mounting surfaces thoroughly
Install the new closure following manufacturer alignment specifications
Test operation, adjusting tension as needed for proper closing speed
Product Review: Wright Products VH2000 Heavy-Duty Door Closer - $24.95
Pros: All-weather design specifically for screen doors, adjustable closing speed
Cons: Requires precise alignment for optimal performance
Best for: Pool enclosure doors subject to frequent use and environmental exposure
Creating a Hurricane Action Plan
Having a clear plan in place before a storm approaches ensures you can act quickly when warnings are issued:
Preparation Timeline
72-48 Hours Before Potential Impact:
Monitor weather forecasts closely
Gather necessary supplies and tools
Review your specific action plan with family members
Take "before" photos of your enclosure for insurance purposes
48-24 Hours Before Impact:
Implement your chosen protection strategy (panel removal, reinforcement, etc.)
Secure or remove all items from inside the enclosure
Double-check all hurricane cables and fasteners
Ensure doors are securely latched or reinforced
Final Preparations:
Document your preparations with photos for insurance
Verify all tools and materials are stored safely
Follow all evacuation orders if issued
Decision Guide: Protection Strategies
Different approaches work best for different enclosure types and storm severities:
Strategy 1: Selective Panel Removal
Best For: Category 2+ hurricanes, older enclosures, enclosures with vulnerable panels
Process:
Identify the most vulnerable panels (typically those facing the predicted wind direction)
Remove spline using needle-nose pliers
Carefully remove screen material
Store spline and screen in a dry, secure location
Consider removing multiple panels to create a "wind tunnel" effect that reduces pressure on the structure
Pros:
Reduces wind resistance significantly
Prevents screen damage that could lead to structural issues
Relatively quick to implement (30-60 minutes for 3-4 panels)
Cons:
Leaves enclosure open to elements after the storm
Requires proper rescreening after the storm passes
Requires some technical knowledge and tools
Tool Recommendation: Professional Screen Removal Kit - $39.99
Pros: Includes specialized tools for safe screen and spline removal
Cons: One-time purchase for occasional use
Best for: Homeowners who plan to implement the panel removal strategy
Strategy 2: Reinforcement
Best For: Category 1 hurricanes, newer enclosures, situations where post-storm pool protection is critical
Process:
Install additional hurricane cables at vulnerable points
Apply reinforcement tape to screen seams and high-stress areas
Add temporary bracing to structural elements
Secure doors with additional latches or bracing
Pros:
Maintains enclosure integrity during and after the storm
No rescreening required if successful
Provides continued pool protection after the storm
Cons:
Less effective in stronger hurricanes
More time-consuming to implement
Higher risk of structural damage in severe storms
Product Recommendation: Hurricane Reinforcement Kit - $89.99
Pros: Includes temporary bracing materials, reinforcement tape, and additional fasteners
Cons: Requires more installation time than panel removal
Best for: Newer enclosures facing less severe storms
Strategy 3: Professional Preparation Service
Best For: Homeowners unable to prepare themselves, very valuable or complex enclosures, those seeking maximum protection
What to Expect:
Professional assessment of your specific enclosure
Implementation of appropriate protection strategy
Documentation for insurance purposes
Priority service for post-storm repairs if needed
Pros:
Expert implementation of protection measures
Reduced personal risk and effort
Often includes post-storm priority service
Cons:
Additional cost ($200-$500 depending on enclosure size)
May need to be scheduled well in advance of storm
Our Hurricane Preparation Service provides comprehensive protection implementation by trained technicians.
Essential Supplies for Hurricane Season
Having these supplies on hand before hurricane season ensures you're ready when a storm approaches:
Tools and HardwareNeedle-nose pliers for spline removal
Cordless drill with appropriate bits for fastener work
Hammer drill with 3/16-inch 6-inch bit for Tapcon replacement
5/16-inch driver head for Tapcon installation
Utility knife with hook blades for screen cutting
Measuring tape for replacement materials
Ladder appropriate for your enclosure height
Replacement MaterialsSpline in appropriate sizes (.310-.315 flat spline for cages with flat spline grooves, .220 round spline for cages with round spline grooves)
Screen material (18x14 standard or 20x20 no-see-um depending on your enclosure)
Fasteners in various sizes (always one size larger than what you're replacing)
Hurricane cables for replacements if needed
Reinforcement tape for temporary repairs
Documentation SuppliesDigital camera or smartphone for before/after documentation
Notebook and pen for recording damage and repairs
Folder for receipts and repair documentation
Copy of insurance policy with contact information
Post-Storm Assessment and Recovery
After the storm passes, proper assessment and prompt action can minimize secondary damage:
Safety FirstDo not enter a damaged enclosure until it's been deemed structurally safe
Watch for damaged electrical components, particularly if lighting was installed
Be aware of sharp edges from damaged aluminum framing
Use gloves and appropriate protective equipment during inspection
DocumentationPhotograph all damage thoroughly for insurance claims
Document temporary repairs made to prevent further damage
Keep receipts for all storm-related expenses
Note the condition of neighboring structures for context
Immediate ActionsRemove any remaining debris that could cause further damage
Cover large screen openings with temporary materials if rain is expected
Secure or remove any loose structural elements
Contact your insurance company to report damage
Professional Restoration
For significant damage, professional restoration services offer several advantages:
Structural engineering expertise
Access to commercial-grade materials
Warranty protection
Insurance claim assistance
Our Storm Damage Repair Service provides priority response for hurricane-damaged enclosures.
Insurance Considerations
Understanding your insurance coverage before a storm is essential:
Coverage VerificationReview your homeowner's policy for specific pool enclosure coverage
Understand deductibles for hurricane damage (often different from standard deductibles)
Verify if code upgrade coverage is included (important for older enclosures)
Confirm if temporary repairs are covered
Documentation Requirements
Most insurance companies require:
Proof of pre-storm condition (maintenance records, photos)
Evidence of appropriate preparation efforts
Detailed documentation of damage
Multiple repair estimates for significant damage
Claim Process TipsReport damage promptly, even if you plan to handle repairs yourself
Provide thorough documentation with your initial claim
Get written authorization before making permanent repairs
Keep all receipts and communications related to the claim
Insurance Insight: "Many homeowners don't realize that pool enclosures often have separate coverage limits and deductibles from the main dwelling. Understanding these details before a storm can prevent unpleasant financial surprises during recovery." - Screening Dunrite Insurance Specialist
Long-Term Hurricane Resilience Improvements
If you're building a new enclosure or significantly renovating an existing one, consider these hurricane-resistant upgrades:
Structural EnhancementsReinforced corner bracing for improved structural integrity
Additional roof supports to prevent sagging and collapse
Upgraded fastener systems with superior holding power
Enhanced foundation connections for better anchoring
Material UpgradesImpact-resistant screen materials that resist tearing
Heavier-gauge aluminum framing for structural components
Corrosion-resistant fasteners and hardware for longer life
Specialized hurricane-resistant door systems with multiple latching points
Design ConsiderationsAerodynamic roof designs that reduce wind resistance
Strategic panel sizing to minimize vulnerable large surfaces
Integrated pressure relief panels that can be quickly removed
Optimized orientation relative to prevailing storm winds
For a complete guide to hurricane-resistant enclosure design, our Hurricane Preparation Guide ($29) provides detailed specifications and recommendations.
Learning from Our Hurricane Preparation Course
For a more comprehensive approach to hurricane preparation, our Hurricane Preparation Guide ($29) provides detailed instructions, checklists, and expert advice specifically for Florida homeowners. This guide covers not only pool enclosures but also:
Exterior flood prevention techniques
DIY hurricane shutter options
Complete supply checklists
Step-by-step preparation timelines
Recovery and insurance claim guidance
Conclusion
Preparing your pool enclosure for hurricane season is an investment in protecting one of your home's valuable features. By implementing the strategies outlined in this guide—inspecting and maintaining fasteners, checking hurricane cables, assessing screen condition, maintaining doors, and creating a clear action plan—you can significantly reduce your risk of catastrophic damage during hurricane season.
Remember that preparation is always less expensive than repair. Taking proactive steps before hurricane season begins can save thousands in repair costs and prevent the inconvenience of a damaged pool enclosure during Florida's beautiful post-hurricane weather.
At Screening Dunrite, we're committed to helping Florida homeowners protect and maintain their pool enclosures through all seasons, including the challenging hurricane months. Whether you need professional hurricane preparation services or advice on DIY maintenance, our team is here to help.
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This article was written by the experts at Screening Dunrite, Florida's trusted pool enclosure specialists since 2010. For more information about our services or to schedule a hurricane readiness inspection, visit www.screeningdunrite.com.
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