If you’ve lived in Florida for any length of time, you know the importance of having a lanai or pool cage that offers both protection and privacy. That’s where Florida Glass comes in. But what is it, and is it worth the upgrade?
In this article, we’ll break down exactly what Florida Glass is, the benefits and potential drawbacks, and whether it’s the right solution for your screen enclosure. Whether you’re in Naples, Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Cape Coral, or Fort Myers, this guide will help you make a smart choice for your outdoor space.
What Is Florida Glass?
Florida Glass is a type of screen material that has been laminated with a layer of vinyl, giving it a more solid and opaque appearance compared to traditional screen mesh. It’s often used in the lower panels of pool cages and lanais to provide added privacy and help block dirt, debris, and water from getting inside.
Florida Glass is actually a brand name, but it’s often used to describe any laminated screen product with similar characteristics.
Pros of Using Florida Glass
1. Enhanced Privacy
One of the biggest reasons homeowners choose Florida Glass is for privacy. Unlike regular mesh, this material obscures visibility, keeping your outdoor space more secluded from neighbors or nearby roads.
2. Debris and Water Blockage
Because of its solid surface, Florida Glass helps keep out grass clippings, mulch, rainwater, and even pesticide spray—especially useful if your lawn crew tends to blow everything toward your lanai.
3. UV Protection
The vinyl coating also offers some level of UV protection, helping to reduce sun exposure on your patio furniture and flooring.
4. Great for Bottom Panels
Most installations use Florida Glass on the bottom 2–3 feet of a pool cage or lanai, where splashing and debris are most common. This makes it a targeted upgrade rather than a full enclosure replacement.
Cons of Florida Glass
1. Reduced Airflow
One drawback is that Florida Glass doesn’t allow airflow like regular screen mesh. If you install too much of it, your lanai could feel hot and stuffy, especially in the summer months.
2. Not Ideal for Full Enclosures
It’s generally not recommended to screen an entire enclosure with Florida Glass, since you’d lose most ventilation and visibility. Use it strategically, especially around the lower panels.
3. Can Become Hazy Over Time
The vinyl coating can get cloudy or hazy with age, especially in high UV areas. Regular cleaning helps, but it may not stay crystal clear over the years.
4. More Expensive Than Regular Screen
Florida Glass is more costly than traditional fiberglass screen, both in terms of materials and installation. However, the added benefits often justify the price.
Where Can You Use Florida Glass?
This material works great in the following applications:
- Lower lanai panels for privacy
- Bottom of pool enclosures to block grass or dirt
- Patio areas facing fences or other properties
- Windy zones to reduce rain spray or splashing
It’s especially popular with homeowners in Naples, Marco Island, Estero, and Bonita Springs, where afternoon thunderstorms and weekly lawn service are the norm.
How Long Does Florida Glass Last?
With proper installation and basic cleaning, Florida Glass panels can last around 6 to 10 years. That said, exposure to intense sunlight or poor drainage can shorten the lifespan.
Can You Mix Florida Glass with Standard Screens?
Absolutely. In fact, mixing materials is common. Many homeowners choose to install Florida Glass only on the bottom row of panels, while using traditional screens above to maintain airflow and light.
This combo works well for homes in Cape Coral and Fort Myers, where larger yards and canal views make full privacy less of a concern.
Trust the Pros at Best Rescreen Company
When it comes to screen upgrades, installation quality is just as important as the material. At Best Rescreen Company, we’ve been helping homeowners across Southwest Florida find the best screen solutions for their lifestyle.
We carry Florida Glass, pet-resistant screen, no-see-um mesh, and super screen, and we’ll guide you through which option makes the most sense for your home.
Whether you’re replacing a few panels or doing a full rescreen, our team delivers expert results, fast service, and no-pressure quotes.
Ready to Upgrade Your Lanai Privacy?
If you’re thinking about installing Florida Glass in Naples, Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Cape Coral, or Fort Myers, let’s talk.
📍Visit us at
5660 Strand Ct Unit A244, Naples, FL 34110
📞Call now: (239) 344-7774
🌐Learn more: www.bestrescreenco.com
Schedule your free estimate today and see why Best Rescreen Company is Southwest Florida’s top choice for lanai privacy and screen repair.
