An array of location specific issues can occur with the bottom panel screens of an enclosure. One of the most frequent concerns that the Gulf Coast Aluminum team hears is “how can I prevent dirt and debris from getting into my cage”. While Phifer products are wonderful at preventing small animals and insects from getting in the issue of incoming dirt and debris can sometimes remain a valid concern. The article highlights some reasons why these issues occur and what you can do to prevent this from happening again.


REASONS

A lot of debris buildup occurs where gutter downspouts are located. Heavy Florida rains create a large amount of water pressure that can expel mud and dirt into the lanai. Also, heavy rains will sometimes overflow rain gutters, which fall down splashing mud into the lanai. It is very common for ground level condo units to experience this gutter run off water issue. Community gardeners are wonderful and keep our communities looking pristine. Sometimes they can blow debris or even accidentally cut standard screen while working resulting in dirty lanais.


OPTION

Florida Glass (Privacy Screen)

is a very popular product to combat dirt and debris while having privacy along the bottom of your enclosure. Florida Glass has a special opaque vinyl coating, almost like a plastic, that acts as a barrier against dirt and debris. It is very common to see the entire bottom portion of a screen enclosure covered in Florida Glass.

Patio Scene

An aesthetically pleasing option is a Patio scenes. Since patio scenes are a can be on a solid screen they act as a barrier to the outside elements yet include a picturesque scene for homeowners to enjoy.

Kick Plate

Another option to be considered is installing kick plate along the bottom portion of the enclosure. A kick plate is a thin solid aluminum that is extremely durable to flying debris like rocks and will eliminate any dirt getting into the pool cage. And is resistant to nearly any impact.

Corey Philip

About the author

Corey began working on screen enclosures as a teenager in 2004 after hurricane Charley devastated his home town of Punta Gorda. 7 years later, after holding positions from foreman, to sales, to project manager, while attending college at Florida Gulf Coast University, Corey and childhood friend Thomas Davis founded Gulf Coast Aluminum in 2011. With a focus on delivering an unparrelled level of service, the company has grown by leaps and bounds under their leadership. Today you’ll find Corey answering the phones In his free time Corey likes training for triathlons, running the trails at Ding Darling park on Sanibel Island, and of course, working on growing Gulf Coast Aluminum.