There is no universal rule that every pool cage must be completely rescreened before it can be painted. Some Florida contractors specialize in painting with screens still installed. But removing old screen can provide much better access to frame faces, spline channels, fasteners and joints. The right choice depends on screen age, access and how the contractor will actually prepare and mask the enclosure.
Why Removing Screen Can Improve Access
- Old mesh and spline no longer block portions of the extrusion.
- Channels and edges can be cleaned and coated more completely.
- There is less risk of permanently coating or clogging screen.
- Fastener replacement and frame inspection are easier.
- New screen is installed after paint has cured rather than being exposed to overspray.
Why a Homeowner Might Keep Screen in Place
If the screen is relatively new and the frame only needs cosmetic refinishing, discarding serviceable mesh can be wasteful. Specialty contractors may have masking and spray methods designed to work around existing screen. That can be legitimate—but the proposal should explain how hidden or partially blocked frame surfaces are prepared.
The Best Timing When Both Jobs Are Due
If the enclosure already needs a full rescreen and a repaint, the cleanest workflow is often to remove old mesh, complete frame/hardware repair and coating, let the finish reach the required cure, then install new screen. Southwest Florida restoration contractors commonly describe this sequence in published project examples.
Questions for a Quote
- Are screens removed, masked, or partly removed?
- If left in place, how are both sides of members and spline-channel edges reached?
- Who pays if overspray or solvent damages screen?
- Are fasteners replaced before or after coating?
- How long does the coating cure before new screen/spline is installed?
- What protection is used over the pool, deck, house and landscaping?