How to clean pool cage screens in Florida? (Complete guide)

iHosD
Sep 2, 2023
5 min read

Updated: May 28

Worker expertly pressure washing during a pool cage screen cleaning service. — A Pool Paint Screen LLC worker expertly pressure washing a pool cage screen enclosure.

Pool cage screens, commonly known as lanai screens, play a vital role in keeping debris, insects, and critters away from your pool area. Over the course of time, these screens can accumulate dirt, mold, and algae. To ensure they remain effective and visually pleasing, it's important to clean them regularly. Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure you do it right.

How to clean a pool cage?

The pool cage structure has two main components: the screens and the aluminum frame. While some steps and materials may overlap during cleaning, each part requires specific care.

Screens are typically crafted from resistant fiberglass and vinyl-coated polyester, which makes them robust against outdoor elements like insects and weather conditions. However, screens are also sensitive to sharp objects, abrasive tools, and harsh chemicals. You’ll need materials like a soft brush and plain soap to clean without causing any damage.
The aluminum structure is quite strong, but there are key considerations to keep in mind to take care of it and ensure its appearance, such as the oxidation level, surrounding environment, and avoiding harsh chemicals.

These considerations will help you clean the pool cage effectively and maintain its integrity.

Cleaning pool enclosure screens

Pool cage screens are generally easy to clean. Although some types of screen material are sturdier and less likely to rip than others, using gentle cleaning methods is the ideal approach to maintenance.

A gentle, soapy wash and careful scrubbing and rinsing are recommended not to damage or tear the mesh or peel off the laminated layer in the case of privacy screens.

In most cases, cleaning your pool enclosure screens once or twice a year is enough. You might need to inspect the screens more frequently if you live in an area with higher humidity levels, near the sea, or surrounded by many trees.

Check the following instructions, gather your materials, prepare the area, and get ready for a successful cleaning process.

Materials Needed:

Soft brush or broom
Hose with spray nozzle
Mild dish soap or a specialized screen cleaner
Bucket
Soft cloth or sponge
Ladder (if needed)
Algae or mold cleaner (if needed)

Initial Preparations:

Clear the deck: Begin by removing furniture, toys, or other items from the vicinity of the pool cage screen.
Protect the working area: It's advisable to cover the pool or turn off the filtration system to avoid any dirty water entering your pool.

Dusting Off the Pool Cage Screen

Gently brush away any loose debris, cobwebs, or dirt from the screens using a soft brush or broom. This should be done from both the inner and outer side of the pool cage screen.

Prepping the Cleaning Solution:

In a bucket, mix water with a few drops of mild dish soap until it gets sudsy.
If using a dedicated screen cleaner, ensure you follow the manufacturer's guidelines.

Scrubbing the Pool Cage Screen

Wet a soft cloth or sponge with the soapy water. Start from the top and slowly work your way down, scrubbing the screen in a circular pattern. This will effectively remove dirt, mold, or algae from the mesh.
Apply more pressure on areas with tougher stains. If mold or algae are too persistent, a specialized cleaner might be necessary.

Rinsing the Screen:

With a spray nozzle attached to your hose, rinse off the soapy residue and any dirt from the screen. Always start from the top and proceed downwards to ensure all soap is rinsed out. Ensure the pressure isn’t too strong to prevent any potential damage.

Damage Inspection:

As you clean, look out for any tears, holes, or damaged sections of the screen. Such areas might require repairs or replacements to maintain the cage's efficiency.

Drying Time:

Allow the pool cage screens to air dry. If it's a sunny day, the drying process should be swift. Make sure the screens are completely dry before placing any furniture back.

Concluding Steps:

Reactivate your pool's filtration system if it was initially turned off.
Return the furniture or other items to their respective places around the pool deck.

Tips for cleaning pool cage screens

Regularly brushing down your screens every few weeks can reduce dirt and mold buildup.
If you're in an area with hard water, using a water softener attachment for your hose can prevent mineral deposits on the screen.
Abstain from using abrasive tools or potent chemicals on the screens; they can damage the mesh or strip away protective layers.

How to clean an aluminum pool cage frame?

Cleaning the aluminum pool enclosure frame is essential to help prevent corrosion, weakening of materials, or costly repairs caused by accumulated dirt, mold, and algae.

It’s important to avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners that could scratch or discolor the aluminum. Other than that, maintaining the pool cage frame has a similar approach to the screen cleaning procedure.

Gather your supplies:
- Bucket
- Soft brush or sponge
- Mild dish soap
- Hose with spray nozzle
- Ladder (if needed)
Clear the deck and cover the pool.
Brush away loose leaves and cobwebs from the frame.
Prepare your cleaning solution:
- In the bucket, mix warm water with some drops of dish soap until it’s sudsy.
- If you’re dealing with mold or algae, try mixing one part of water and one of vinegar. Don’t worry about the vinegar smell—it will disappear as it dries.
- For more stubborn mold and algae, dilute one part of bleach in three parts of water. Remember to use gloves to protect your skin when using bleach.
Scrub: dip the soft brush or sponge into the cleaning solution, apply on the frame, and scrub. In areas with stubborn dirt, you can generally try with more pressure. Work from top to bottom so dirty water doesn’t run over already cleaned areas.
Focus on joints and corners of the frame where debris and mold accumulate.
Rinsing: use the hose to rinse the soapy water or cleaning solution off the frame. Ensure you wash out any residual soap or chemicals that can corrode the aluminum over time.
Drying: let the air completely dry the pool cage frame. Also, wipe the surface with a soft cloth to avoid water spots.

Pool cage cleaning cost

Regular pool cage cleaning in Florida costs about $100 to $400 or more. The price varies depending on factors like pool enclosure size, height and accessibility, significant dirt, mold or algae buildup, and location within the state.

Some tips to get the specific cost for your pool cage are:

Provide details: tell the enclosure's size, height, and current condition.
Verify you understand what the quote includes: ask for a detailed breakdown of services covered by the pool cage cleaning service.

Pool cage cleaning near me

If you prefer to leave the pool cage cleaning process in the hands of the experts, look for a reliable pool cage company. You want to guarantee that every detail is efficiently taken care of so that the enclosure is well-cleaned up without any harm.

You can trust our expert team to get a spotless pool enclosure! Just call us, and we’ll be happy to help you keep the aesthetics and functionality of your pool cage.

Final Comments

Cleaning your pool cage will preserve its functionality and enhance your property’s attractive and enjoyable appearance.

With this guide, your pool cage screen and frame will remain clean, ensuring a clear view and an insect-free environment.

At Pool Paint Screen LLC, our expert detail-oriented team provides top-notch pool cage painting and restoration services in Florida, from Orlando to Sarasota, including these areas: