How Much Does a Pool Enclosure Cost?
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A pool enclosure can be used for a variety of reasons.
First, it can provide shade on hot summer days, helping you avoid the inevitable sunburn. Another reason that people choose to purchase a pool enclosure is that it can help keep debris out of your pool. It can also provide privacy, serve as a saftey barrier and even prevent wild animals from entering the water.
No matter the season, there is always going to be some type of material that can potentially fly into your pool.
How much does a pool screen enclosure cost?
The cost of a permanent pool enclosure will depend on the pool type, the size, the enclosure shape, if it’s permanent or portable, the materials and the local labor rates.
On average, a prefabricated pool enclosure that is screened can cost anywhere from $13 to $24 per square foot. Another popular type, a pool screen enclosure, can cost about $6 to $10 per square foot. The average pool owner, from our research, pays anywhere from $4,000 to $12,000 to fully enclose their pool with a permanent structure.
An aluminum screen enclosure can cost anywhere from $15 to $30 per square feet.
Higher-end customized enclosures can cost as much as $50 to $95 per square feet.
A retractable enclosure could cost upwards of $150 per square foot. With the average mentioned above, the price range can get much higher with higher-end models.
An above ground pool enclosure can be much cheaper. These enclosures will look similar to a dome and can often be made from a nylon with zippered doors. Something such as this could retail for as little as $400 to $600 each.
A pool owner should plan to pay anywhere from $8,000 to $39,000 for an entire enclosure for a standard in-ground pool. To get an exact quote for your specific situation, consider getting multiple quotes from contractors in your area at HomeAdvisor.com.
| Type | Description | Price (per square foot) |
|---|---|---|
| Glass | Usually constructed with UV-protected glass, a glass pool enclosure can provide a climate control system and a setup that protects your pool from the outdoor elements. | $45 to $70 |
| Portable | As the name implies, this portable enclosure will be typically made of a screen or nylon-like material. These enclosures won't require a professional as they are extremely easy to setup and take down. | $400 to $600 total |
| Retractable | A retractable pool enclosure allows you to open the enclosure when the weather is nice. | $100 to $200 |
| Screen | Known as one of the more popular types, a screen enclosure will be similar to that of a sunroom with screened-in windows, allowing the air from the outside to enter. | $10 to $25 |
Pool enclosure overview
Pool enclosures are usually permanent, but there are some that can be removed. Similar to a greenhouse, an enclosure will form a bubble around your pool to protect it from the outdoor environment and also provide security. The look of most will be similar to that of a sunroom.
The enclosures itself can come in a variety of shapes, including rectangles, domes, polygonal shpaes, and ellipses.
Common materials can include wood, iron, aluminum, stainless steel or even a simple mesh screen.
Similar to a gazebo, a pool enclosure can be as decorative as you want it. Some can have peaks, retractable roofs or even heating and cooling vents added.
These enclosures will also have a great ventilation system that allows outside air to come in and circulate, allowing you to even extend the swimming season.
Some models may come with a solar powered roof that can help warm your pool in the cooler months.
If you purchase a pool enclosure that is on the higher end, it can allow you to use your pool year-round, even in areas where the winters are very cold.
What are the extra costs?
Adding electrical outlets along with venting from your HVAC unit can add to the overall costs.
Many enclosures either come with one door or none at all. To add additional doors or make alterations, additional fees can apply.
If you are going to use your pool enclosure to keep your pool open even in the cold season, it is going to greatly increase your monthly energy and electric bills. These monthly bills should definitely be taken into account when considering such a large investment.
Permits, if it’s going to be required in your area, can be another $80 to $150.
Landscaping, once the enclosure has been built, will need to be considered to liven up the area.
Some extras, while optional, needs to be considered. This can include a glass ceiling, a pool house, seating areas, storage, a refrigerator, pool shades and/or an entrance that directly connects to your home for convenience.
Don’t forget about the furniture you will need once the enclosure is complete. This can include chairs, tables, hanging plants and/or lighting.
Tips to know:
The average pool is going to take up anywhere from 650 to 1,200 square feet. The total square footage that you will need depends on the size of your pool, the amount of room you would like to have around the pool, and the height that you want.
If your main goal of the pool enclosure is to keep out debris, consider purchasing a simple pool cover. By leaving this on when the pool is not in use, the water will be kept clean. Pool covers can also be retractable, making them easy to take off and put back on. If you are purchasing the pool enclosure as a way to keep the pool warm, this can be accomplished by using a solar cover. This will not only keep out debris but will also catch the UV rays of the sun and warm the water underneath.
How can I save money?
Pool enclosures can get very expensive. If you cannot afford it, consider getting something as simple as a portable pool fence. A durable portable fence for your pool can be purchased and installed for less than $1,000.
With any home project, make sure that you always get multiple quotes from contractors. Many reputable contractors will be more than happy to provide you with a quote for free in person.
If you cannot afford the payments up front, consider a payment plan. Some can offer small payments for up to five years.
Cheaper is not always better. Some of your cheaper enclosures, such as an inflatable one, can have a short lifespan due to the heat and humidity.
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Average Reported Cost: $12000
How much did you spend?
- cathy salamun (seffner, fl) paid $12000 and said:
how much for 27 by 37 pool enclosure
Was it worth it? Yes
