One or two story pool cage? (Naples: insurance, house, pros and cons)

[nyflbound]

We're getting closer to our house being built and are working on final details with the builder. Our house is two stories and we're putting in a pool and patio. We had wanted to put in a two story pool cage because the second floor has a veranda and we thought it would look nicer and keep bugs off the veranda. I just got the pricing on a one story versus a 2 story cage and it's more than double the price. So now we're leaning toward going with a one story. Does it really make a difference? Pros and cons? We're from NY so we don't have any experience with this. Thanks!

[Tripower455]

I will say that the higher the pool cage, the more "outside" and less like you're in a cage they feel, but you pay for it. The high ones will also be more susceptible to wind damage, I imagine. Depending on the size of the upstairs porch, the other option is a shorter pool cage and separate screen for the upstairs if you plan on using it much.

[The14Homes]

How about having your veranda screened in and the pool area open. When you go to the community pool there is never a screen present. It is really nice to have an open feel, when you looked at the model homes, I’m sure most just had a fence around the perimeter of the yard. No screen, this is getting more popular.
When I first moved to Naples 9 years ago, everyone kept telling about the bugs. So I made sure that my home pool was covered. Once I was ready to move again, this time I made sure that the pool area just had a nice fence around it. There aren't any bugs during the day. Now I can say that it’s actually enjoyable to sit by my pool now without feeling like I’m in a cage. Then if in the evening you want to enjoy the sunset you can sit out on the veranda. That way, to me you have the best of both worlds. Oh and your insurance will be cheaper. If you are set on a cage, then I would go for the double, but do check the insurance prices, you may be surprised (shocked) some won't even cover them.

[blueherons]

I like the pool cage because I like to open the back of my home up and still have it enclosed. November-March, nothing better than having the entire house open and living outside.

If you can afford it, go for the two story. They are fantastic.

You'll never sit around saying, "I wish we had only done one story".

However, you do the one story you will say the opposite.

Good luck!

[nyflbound]

Thank you so much! You've all given me something to think about. I think we're going to try to go with a 2 level cage. I would love to not put up a cage at all but I hate bugs and I would like to use the pool and patio at night also.

[Tripower455]

It's not only the bugs that are an issue. Leaves, pine needles etc. are a consideration. The cage keeps the pool much cleaner if you have any trees around.

[Worldkiss]

Agree with Tripower. In addition, a good cage eliminates the squirrels, snakes and beetles.

[Tripower455]

Originally Posted by Worldkiss

Agree with Tripower. In addition, a good cage eliminates the squirrels, snakes and beetles.

The snakes and lizards still seem to get in!

[magemom]

I had a cage-less pool and it was always filthy with tree debris. The only time it looked good was for 10 minutes after it was cleaned. And you know we went through a number of pool filters and I always thought it was because all the junk that got into the pool. Don't do cageless! The two story does look nice. You will love it either way!

[nyflbound]

I have a pool in New York now that get's a lot of debris in it now and I have to clean it everyday. The thought of not having to do that sounds wonderful!