Installing a pool enclosure can greatly enhance your backyard swimming experience. A pool enclosure allows you to use your pool year-round and provides privacy, protection from weather, and added safety. If you’re considering adding an enclosure, you probably want to know how much it will cost. Here are the key factors that impact the cost of enclosing a pool:
Type of Pool Enclosure
The type of enclosure you select for your pool will have the biggest impact on total project cost. There are a few main options to consider:
- Screen Enclosures: Aluminum framed structures covered in fiberglass, vinyl, or polyester mesh screening material. This is typically the most affordable enclosure option. The screening allows airflow and partial sun visibility while blocking leaves, debris, and bugs. Screen enclosures need frequent cleaning and replacing as the screens wear out over time. Expect to pay $15-$50 per square foot installed for a basic aluminum frame screen pool enclosure.
- Glass Enclosures: Aluminum framing coupled with single or double pane glass walls. Glass enclosures provide the clearest visibility and withstand weather and use longer than screen enclosures. Glass also blocks noise and creates a more comfortable environment. Tempered safety glass is required for pool applications. The downside is a much higher cost, with figures ranging from $50 to $100 per square foot installed, based on whether it is single or double pane construction.
- Patio Covers: An aluminum or wood framed roof with open sides. Provides shade and some protection from rain but is not a full 4-sided enclosure. Can be combined with roll-down screens or vinyl transparent panels on part of the area. A patio cover is one of the most budget friendly options starting around $25-$60 per square foot for the roof structure. However it does not offer a complete enclosed pool environment.
The pros, cons and costs can vary quite a bit for each enclosure type. Consider how you plan to use your pool, your climate, and budget when deciding on screen, glass or covered patio for optimal benefits at a reasonable price. Your installer can explain these options in more detail.
Custom or DIY Enclosure
You have two main options when it comes to the enclosure framework – custom-built or do-it-yourself kit. Going with a modular DIY aluminum frame kit can save 20-30% over the price of custom construction. Kits come with all the bars, panels, and hardware needed to enclose a rectangular or simple pool. However, DIY kits have size limitations and don’t work as well for larger or unusually shaped pools.
Custom building an enclosure allows for more flexibility in size and shape. You can get an enclosure tailored exactly to your pool’s dimensions. The downside is this approach requires professional installation and expertise, increasing labor costs. Expect a custom aluminum frame enclosure to cost 25-50% more in installation fees versus a DIY kit.
Features and Accessories
Several additional features and upgrades can enhance your pool enclosure but will also add to the total project budget:
- Insulated Roof System: Adding insulation above the ceiling helps control humidity and condensation. This allows the interior space to stay dry instead of dripping. Expect to pay $2-$4 per square foot for an insulated enclosure roof.
- Electric Vent Fans: Installing electric ventilation fans helps circulate air and manage interior temperature/humidity. Fan costs range from $250-$500 each, depending on size and features. Include at least 2-3 fans for a full pool enclosure.
- Pool Heating: Extend your swimming season by heating the pool water. Electric or solar pool heaters average $2,500-$5,000 in purchase and installation costs. Operating costs are additional.
- Glass Walls: Upgrading from standard polycarbonate or acrylic panels to tempered safety glass increases clarity and durability. However, glass walls will add about 30% to the price of plastic panels.
- Retractable Roof/Walls: Motorized retractable roof panels or moveable walls provide an open-air experience. These specialty enclosures cost $8,000-$15,000 more than fixed panels.
- Decorative Framing: Opting for colored or premium aluminum framing over standard white finishes generally adds 20% or more to materials costs.
- Automated Controls: Remote control operation for lighting, fans, heating, and other features ranges from $2,500-$4,000 installed.
Professional Installation
Unless you are handy and plan to install a DIY enclosure kit, it’s best to hire professional pool contractors to build the enclosure. This typically adds 20-30% to the total project cost. Professional installation is highly recommended for proper structural construction, noise reduction, energy efficiency, and safety.
Pool enclosure pros have the expertise to handle the challenging logistics of installing large aluminum frameworks, wall panels, and roof systems. They have the right equipment for lifting and securing structures in place. A quality installation also reduces the risks of panels detaching in high winds.
Professional pool builders normally charge $45-$75 per hour for labor, depending on your region. Complex custom designs with high-end finishes could take 100 hours or more of labor to fully install. Simple DIY kits may only take 20-30 hours for pros to assemble. Always get a detailed estimate so you know exactly what is included and the expected labor costs.
Location and Site Access
Installing a pool enclosure is much more difficult if there are barriers surrounding your backyard that block access for the crew and equipment. Having to tear down walls or fences, dig out and remove extensive landscaping, or rent a crane to lift materials over the house will drive up costs quickly.
Likewise, limited access through narrow gates or doors forces additional disassembly and complicates the job. Survey your property ahead of time. Discuss any access limitations with contractors upfront before finalizing project plans and pricing. Building temporary structures to facilitate installation may be needed in tricky spaces, which could cost thousands in additional fees.
In summary, most DIY pool enclosures range from $15,000 to $30,000 installed. For a custom professional installation, expect to invest $30,000 to $60,000 or more depending on the size, features and location complexity. Do your research, get quotes from multiple vendors, and make sure to understand exactly what is included before committing to keep your pool enclosure project on time and on budget.
