Understanding Your Enclosure Options

In Florida, extending your living space outdoors with an enclosure is a popular way to enjoy the weather without pests. But terms like "pool enclosure," "patio enclosure," and "lanai" are often used interchangeably, causing confusion. While they are similar, they have key differences. At Right Way, we help Sebastian homeowners understand these options to choose the perfect structure for their home.

The King of Coverage: The Pool Enclosure

A pool enclosure is the largest of the structures, designed specifically to cover the entire pool and a significant portion of the surrounding deck. Its primary purpose is to keep leaves, debris, and insects out of the water, reducing cleaning time and chemical usage. Due to its large span, it requires a robust aluminum frame engineered to meet Florida’s strict wind-load codes.

The All-Purpose Space: The Patio Enclosure

A patio enclosure, or screen room, is designed to cover a paved patio area that is typically attached to the back of a house. This creates a versatile, bug-free room for dining, lounging, or entertaining. Unlike a pool enclosure, its footprint is usually smaller and connects directly to the home’s structure on one or more sides. It’s a cost-effective way to add a protected living area.

The True Florida Original: The Lanai

A lanai is a specific architectural feature. It is defined as a roofed, veranda-like space that is part of the home's original structure, sharing the home’s foundation and roofline. It is enclosed with screens on its open sides. So, while you can have a patio enclosure added on, a lanai is an integrated part of the house from the start. A screened lanai offers a seamless indoor-outdoor transition.

Matching the Structure to Your Needs

The right choice depends entirely on your property and goals. If you have a pool, a full pool enclosure is the most practical option. If you simply want to screen in an existing concrete slab patio, a patio enclosure is what you need. If your home was built with a covered outdoor area under the main roof, you are looking to screen in your lanai. Each has a different scope of work and associated cost.

Get the Right Enclosure for Your Home

Whether you need to screen a lanai, build a new patio enclosure, or re-screen a large pool cage, expert installation is key. The team at Right Way has years of experience with all types of enclosures in the Sebastian area. We can assess your space and help you understand the best and most cost-effective solution for your needs. Contact us today for a free consultation and quote.

Does adding an enclosure increase my property taxes?
Typically, a standard screen enclosure is not considered a permanent room and may not significantly impact your property taxes. However, if you add a solid roof or convert it into a true "under air" sunroom, it will likely be reassessed. It's always best to check with our local Sebastian property appraiser's office.
Can you screen in an existing porch or pergola?
Yes, absolutely. We can custom-fit screens and an aluminum framework to almost any existing structure, including front entryways, covered porches, and pergolas. This is a cost-effective way to gain a bug-free space without building a brand-new structure.
What is the difference between a lanai and a sunroom?
The main difference is that a lanai is screened, allowing for outdoor airflow. A sunroom is enclosed with glass or acrylic windows and is typically climate-controlled (heated and cooled), making it a true interior room with an outdoor view.

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Pool Enclosure vs. Patio Enclosure vs. Lanai: Which is Right for Your Home?

Pool Enclosure vs. Patio Enclosure vs. Lanai: Which is Right for Your Home?

Does adding an enclosure increase my property taxes?

Can you screen in an existing porch or pergola?

What is the difference between a lanai and a sunroom?

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