Hurricane-Rated High Strength Pool Enclosures
Maximum-strength enclosures engineered for 140-150+ mph sustained winds. Miami-Dade County NOA certified for High Velocity Hurricane Zones. Enhanced structural reinforcement and impact-resistant options.
Hurricane-Rated Pool Enclosures - Maximum Protection for Coastal Properties
Hurricane-rated pool enclosures provide the highest level of wind protection available, specifically engineered for South Florida's most demanding coastal environments. Designed to withstand 140-150+ mph sustained winds with Miami-Dade County Notice of Acceptance (NOA) certification, these maximum-strength enclosures are required for properties in designated High Velocity Hurricane Zones and chosen by discerning homeowners throughout South Florida who prioritize superior protection.
Aces Up Screens has been installing hurricane-rated pool enclosures in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties for over 30 years. As a Florida-licensed contractor (CC# 20-AL-21822-X) with extensive HVHZ experience, we provide complete NOA-compliant engineering, permitting, installation, and warranty services ensuring your enclosure provides maximum protection when you need it most.
Understanding High Velocity Hurricane Zones
What is HVHZ Designation?
High Velocity Hurricane Zones are coastal areas designated by Florida Building Code as having the highest hurricane risk in the state. These areas require the most stringent building codes and engineering standards in the United States, ensuring structures can withstand the most powerful hurricanes.
Miami-Dade County HVHZ: Generally includes all areas within approximately 1 mile of the coast, covering most of Miami Beach, Key Biscayne, coastal Coral Gables, Coconut Grove waterfront areas, and other coastal communities. Exact boundaries are defined by Miami-Dade County building code maps.
Broward County HVHZ: Includes certain coastal areas in Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pompano Beach, and other beachfront communities. HVHZ designation is more limited than Miami-Dade but follows similar wind load requirements.
HVHZ Requirements
Pool enclosures in HVHZ areas must meet significantly enhanced standards:
Wind Load Design: 140-150+ mph sustained wind speeds (vs 100-120 mph for non-HVHZ areas)
Miami-Dade NOA Certification: All components, assemblies, and installation methods must have current NOA approval
Enhanced Engineering: Complete structural engineering by Florida-licensed PE with detailed wind load analysis
Stricter Inspections: More frequent and detailed building department inspections throughout construction
Product Approvals: All materials and fasteners must appear on Miami-Dade approved product list
Verifying Your HVHZ Status
Not sure if your property is in an HVHZ? We verify this during your free consultation using:
- Miami-Dade or Broward County GIS mapping systems
- Your property's legal description and building department records
- Wind speed designation from your survey or existing plans
- Direct verification with your local building department
Many homeowners are surprised to learn their property is in an HVHZ - it's critical to verify before designing your enclosure.
Hurricane-Rated Engineering Differences
Enhanced Aluminum Framework
Hurricane-rated enclosures use significantly reinforced framework:
Larger Extrusion Profiles: .125" wall thickness aluminum extrusions (vs .080"-.100" standard) providing 25-50% greater structural strength
Greater Cross-Sectional Area: Wider and deeper profiles increasing load-bearing capacity and wind resistance
Additional Bracing: Diagonal bracing, knee braces, and intermediate horizontal members creating redundant load paths
Closer Post Spacing: Vertical support posts typically every 10-12 feet (vs 12-15 feet standard) reducing span loads
Hurricane-Rated Fasteners
Every connection uses approved hurricane-rated hardware:
Stainless Steel Screws: 304 or 316 grade stainless steel preventing corrosion while providing superior strength
Structural Bolts: Through-bolted connections at critical structural joints rather than screws alone
Concrete Anchors: Hot-dipped galvanized or stainless steel embedment anchors meeting Florida code requirements for pullout resistance
Specific Spacing Requirements: Engineering specifies exact fastener spacing (typically 6" on-center vs 8"-12" standard) ensuring adequate connection capacity
Foundation Attachments
Hurricane-rated enclosures require enhanced foundation connections:
Deep Embedment Anchors: Concrete anchors embedded 4"-6" into existing slabs or footings (vs 2"-3" standard)
Increased Quantity: More anchor points throughout the structure perimeter distributing wind loads
Load-Rated Attachments: All foundation connections engineered and tested for specific uplift and lateral load capacity
Structural Attachment Plates: Reinforced aluminum or steel plates at critical connection points distributing loads across larger areas
Miami-Dade NOA Certification Process
What NOA Approval Covers
Miami-Dade County Notice of Acceptance certification verifies:
Product Testing: Physical testing of components and assemblies in wind tunnel or laboratory conditions simulating hurricane-force winds
Engineering Documentation: Complete structural analysis and engineering calculations reviewed by third-party experts
Installation Standards: Approved installation procedures and quality control requirements documented and verified
Component Approval: All materials including aluminum extrusions, fasteners, screening, and hardware individually approved
System Performance: Complete assembled system demonstrated to meet performance requirements
Our NOA-Compliant Systems
As a licensed contractor with extensive HVHZ experience, we maintain current NOA approvals for multiple pool enclosure systems allowing us to design the optimal solution for your specific property requirements and budget. All installations include:
- Current NOA certificate copies for all components
- Engineering signed and sealed by Florida-licensed PE
- Installation procedures following NOA-approved methods
- Quality control documentation and inspection records
- Complete documentation package for building department and your records
Hurricane Performance Expectations
Structural Integrity
Hurricane-rated enclosures are engineered to maintain structural integrity during major hurricanes:
Framework Survival: Aluminum framing, posts, beams, and connections engineered to remain structurally intact and not collapse
Foundation Security: Attachments engineered to prevent structure from detaching or overturning in extreme winds
Load Path Continuity: All structural members and connections engineered to transfer wind loads safely to the foundation
Post-Storm Assessment: Structure remains safe and repairable rather than requiring complete replacement
Screening Expectations
Even in hurricane-rated enclosures, screening material serves as a pressure relief system:
Standard Screening: May tear or pull loose in extreme winds (120+ mph sustained) - this is by design, allowing wind to pass through
Impact-Resistant Screening: Better resistance to wind-borne debris and less likely to completely fail, but still may sustain damage in extreme winds
Replaceable Component: Screening is designed as a replaceable component, protecting the more expensive structural framework
Post-Storm Repairs: Screening replacement after major hurricanes costs $2,000-$6,000 typically - far less than complete structure replacement
Real-World Hurricane Performance
South Florida's hurricane history demonstrates proper engineering effectiveness:
Hurricane Andrew (1992): Properly-engineered pool enclosures showed remarkable framework survival with screening damage
Hurricane Wilma (2005): Similar pattern - engineered structures remained intact while screening required replacement
Hurricane Irma (2017): Most recent major test showed NOA-compliant enclosures performed as designed with framework surviving and screening serving as designed pressure relief
The consistent pattern: Investing in proper engineering protects your structural investment, with only the screening component requiring post-storm replacement in extreme events.
Pricing & Investment
Hurricane-rated pool enclosures represent a premium investment with pricing typically ranging from $12,000 to $22,000 for residential installations in South Florida HVHZ areas.
Cost Factors
Enhanced Engineering: Comprehensive structural analysis and NOA documentation adds $1,200-$2,000 over standard engineering
Reinforced Materials: Heavier aluminum extrusions, additional bracing, and hurricane-rated fasteners add 20-30% to material costs
Labor & Installation Time: More complex installation with precise fastener spacing and connection requirements adds 15-20% to labor costs
Permit & Inspection Fees: HVHZ areas typically have higher permit fees and require additional inspections
NOA Compliance Documentation: Maintaining proper documentation and quality control records adds administrative cost
Value Proposition
Despite higher upfront costs, hurricane-rated enclosures provide significant value:
Maximum Protection: Highest level of protection available for your investment and property
Insurance Benefits: Many insurance providers offer premium discounts for NOA-certified construction (verify with your insurer)
Property Value: Premium construction quality appeals to buyers in coastal areas, supporting higher property values
Long-Term Durability: Enhanced construction means longer lifespan and fewer repairs over time
Peace of Mind: Confidence that your enclosure was engineered to the highest standards provides invaluable security
Insurance Considerations
Check with your insurance provider about:
Premium Discounts: Some insurers offer 5-15% discounts for NOA-certified hurricane-rated construction
Deductible Reductions: Enhanced construction may qualify for lower hurricane deductible options
Coverage Requirements: Some coastal properties require hurricane-rated construction for insurability
Documentation Requirements: Keep all NOA certificates, engineering documents, and permits for insurance verification
Choosing Hurricane-Rated vs Standard
When Hurricane-Rated is Required
Hurricane-rated enclosures are mandatory for:
- Properties in designated HVHZ areas per local building codes
- Properties where building department specifies NOA certification
- New construction or major renovations in coastal Miami-Dade or Broward areas
When Hurricane-Rated is Recommended (but not required)
Consider upgrading to hurricane-rated even if not required if:
- Your property is within 2-3 miles of the coast (near HVHZ boundary)
- Your property has high value and you want maximum protection
- Your area has sustained hurricane damage historically
- You plan long-term ownership (15+ years)
- Your insurance provider offers meaningful discounts
- Peace of mind and maximum protection are priorities
When Standard May Be Adequate
Standard enclosures meeting local building codes provide good protection for:
- Properties well inland (5+ miles from coast) with lower wind requirements
- Properties in areas with minimal hurricane history
- Budget-focused projects where cost is primary concern
- Properties with limited exposure (surrounded by other structures providing wind protection)
We provide honest recommendations based on your specific location, risk tolerance, and budget during your free consultation.
Ready to protect your property with a hurricane-rated pool enclosure? Contact Aces Up Screens today at (954) 548-1934 for a free consultation and detailed estimate. Our licensed team specializes in HVHZ installations throughout Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties.
Key Benefits
Experience the advantages of professional hurricane-rated high strength pool enclosures installation
Miami-Dade County Notice of Acceptance (NOA) certified design
Engineered for 140-150+ mph sustained wind loads per FBC 2020
Reinforced aluminum framework with enhanced bracing throughout
Hurricane-rated fasteners and connections at all attachment points
Impact-resistant screening options available for maximum protection
Complete structural engineering by Florida-licensed PE required
Required for coastal HVHZ properties in Miami-Dade and Broward
Maximum protection for your investment and property
Our Professional Process
HVHZ Assessment & Design
Florida-licensed contractor visits to assess your property location, verify HVHZ designation, evaluate site-specific wind exposure factors. We determine exact wind load requirements for your location and provide design options meeting or exceeding all NOA certification requirements with detailed written estimate.
Enhanced Engineering & NOA Documentation
Florida-licensed PE provides comprehensive structural engineering including wind load calculations for 140-150+ mph sustained winds, structural analysis of all connections and components, hurricane tie-down specifications, and foundation load calculations. Complete Miami-Dade County NOA documentation and product approvals obtained. Full permit package with all required NOA certifications submitted to building department.
Professional Installation with Inspections
Experienced installation team installs reinforced aluminum framework using NOA-certified components and fasteners. All hurricane-rated connections installed per engineering specifications and manufacturer requirements. Enhanced bracing and structural reinforcement throughout. Building inspectors verify NOA compliance at multiple stages. Daily documentation and quality control.
Final Inspection & Certification
Coordinate final building department inspection with complete NOA documentation. Inspectors verify all hurricane-rated connections, proper fastener types and spacing, structural integrity throughout. Address any items immediately. Deliver complete documentation package including permits, engineering drawings, NOA certificates, installation photos, and written warranties.
Featured Project
See an example of our professional hurricane-rated high strength pool enclosures installation
Margate Mansard Pool Enclosure
Professional installation completed in 5 days including full permitting and structural engineering services. This project demonstrates our expertise with traditional mansard-style roofs that provide enhanced aesthetic appeal while maintaining superior structural integrity required for South Florida hurricane protection.
Specifications
- Design Style
- Hurricane-rated mansard roof design
- Wind Load Rating
- 140+ mph wind load capacity (FBC 2020 compliant)
- Screening Type
- 18x14 fiberglass mesh screening
- Frame Material
- Custom aluminum frame with bronze powder-coat finish
- Certification
- Miami-Dade County NOA approved
- Total Area
- 1,850 sq ft enclosed
- Installation Time
- 5 days from start to final inspection
Project Highlights
- Custom bronze color-matched to home exterior
- Completed $500 under estimated budget
- Zero defects on building department final inspection
- Client referred 3 neighbors within 6 months
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about hurricane-rated high strength pool enclosures
What is a High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) and does my property require hurricane-rated enclosures?
High Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ) are coastal areas of Miami-Dade and Broward Counties designated by Florida Building Code as having the highest hurricane risk, requiring structures to withstand 140+ mph sustained winds. HVHZ designation is based on distance from the coast - generally properties within 1 mile of the coast in Miami-Dade County and certain coastal Broward areas. To determine if your property is in an HVHZ, check your building departments online GIS mapping system, review your propertys wind speed designation on your survey or building plans, or contact your local building department. Properties in HVHZ require Miami-Dade County Notice of Acceptance (NOA) certification for all exterior structures including pool enclosures. During your free consultation, we verify your HVHZ status and explain all requirements.
What is Miami-Dade County NOA certification and why is it required?
Miami-Dade County Notice of Acceptance (NOA) is a product approval certification issued by Miami-Dade Countys Building Code Compliance Office. NOA certification verifies that a product, assembly, or installation method has been tested and approved to withstand hurricane-force winds per the strictest building codes in the United States. For pool enclosures in HVHZ areas, NOA certification is required for: the aluminum framework system and extrusions, all fasteners and connection hardware, screening materials and attachment methods, structural engineering and design, and complete assembly and installation procedures. Obtaining NOA approval requires extensive product testing, engineering documentation, and third-party verification. Not all contractors can provide NOA-certified installations - only licensed contractors with approved systems and proper training.
How are hurricane-rated enclosures different from standard enclosures?
Hurricane-rated enclosures feature significant engineering and construction differences: Enhanced aluminum framework using larger extrusion profiles (.125" wall thickness vs .080-.100" standard) with greater cross-sectional strength. Additional vertical and horizontal bracing throughout the structure providing redundant load paths. Hurricane-rated fasteners including stainless steel screws, structural bolts, and approved anchors at all connections with specific spacing requirements. Reinforced foundation attachments using concrete embedment anchors or enhanced attachment plates rated for higher loads. Impact-resistant screening options (when specified) using stronger materials that resist tearing in high winds. More frequent support posts (typically every 10-12 feet vs 12-15 feet standard). Complete wind tunnel testing or engineering analysis documenting wind load capacity. All components must have Miami-Dade NOA approval in HVHZ areas. Construction costs are 15-25% higher due to enhanced materials, engineering requirements, additional inspection requirements, and longer installation time.
Will hurricane-rated enclosures survive a direct hit from a major hurricane?
Hurricane-rated enclosures engineered for 140-150+ mph sustained winds are designed to maintain structural integrity during major hurricanes (Category 3-4), though screening material may tear or be damaged. The engineering philosophy is to protect the structural framework while allowing screening to act as a pressure relief system. During extreme wind events: The aluminum framework and connections are engineered to remain structurally sound and not collapse. Foundation attachments and structural fasteners maintain integrity preventing the structure from detaching or failing. Screening material may tear or pull loose (as designed) allowing wind to pass through rather than building destructive pressure. After the storm, screening can be replaced while the framework remains intact - far more economical than complete structure replacement. Multiple South Florida hurricanes (Andrew 1992, Irma 2017, and others) have demonstrated that properly-engineered pool enclosures perform as designed, with framework remaining intact while screening sustains replaceable damage. Your investment in proper engineering provides maximum protection possible.
How much do hurricane-rated pool enclosures cost?
Hurricane-rated pool enclosures in South Florida typically range from $12,000 to $22,000 for standard residential installations. Pricing depends on total square footage enclosed, location within HVHZ (coastal vs inland areas have different requirements), roof configuration complexity (simple gable vs hip or custom designs), screening type (standard vs impact-resistant adds 25-35%), aluminum frame color (white standard, custom colors add $1,000-$2,500), site conditions and foundation type, and specific engineering requirements for your exposure. Hurricane-rated enclosures cost approximately 15-25% more than standard enclosures due to: enhanced engineering requirements and NOA documentation ($1,200-$2,000 additional), reinforced aluminum framework and components (20-30% more material cost), hurricane-rated fasteners and connections (2-3x cost of standard hardware), additional bracing and support posts, more extensive permitting and inspection requirements, longer installation time due to complexity, and enhanced quality control and documentation requirements.
Can I install a standard enclosure if I am not in an HVHZ area?
Yes, properties outside designated High Velocity Hurricane Zones can use standard pool enclosures engineered to local wind load requirements (typically 100-130 mph depending on location). However, many coastal homeowners outside the official HVHZ boundary choose to upgrade to hurricane-rated enclosures for additional peace of mind and protection. Consider hurricane-rated even if not required if: your property is within 2-3 miles of the coast (near but outside HVHZ boundary), you have high property values and want maximum protection, your area has experienced hurricane damage historically, you plan long-term ownership and want superior durability, or your insurance provider offers premium discounts for enhanced construction. Standard enclosures outside HVHZ still meet Florida Building Code requirements and perform well in most storms, but hurricane-rated provides the highest level of protection available. We provide honest recommendations based on your location, risk tolerance, and budget during your free consultation.
What is impact-resistant screening and should I choose it?
Impact-resistant screening is a heavy-duty screening material specifically designed to resist tearing and penetration from wind-borne debris during hurricanes. It typically uses thick vinyl-coated polyester or woven polymer materials 3-4 times stronger than standard fiberglass mesh. Benefits include: better resistance to wind-borne debris impacts, reduced likelihood of complete screening failure during storms, meets Miami-Dade product approval for impact resistance where required, and significantly stronger for daily use resisting pet damage, furniture contact, and general wear. Drawbacks include: 25-35% higher cost than standard screening, slightly reduced visibility (75-80% vs 85-90% standard), heavier weight requiring additional structural support, and less variety in colors and mesh sizes. Impact-resistant screening is worth considering if: you are in an HVHZ coastal area with maximum hurricane exposure, you have large dogs or pets that damage standard screening, wind-borne debris is a concern (near trees, vegetation), or your insurance provider offers discounts for impact-resistant materials. Most hurricane-rated enclosures use standard screening with the engineering focused on structural integrity - impact screening is an optional upgrade.
How often do hurricane-rated enclosures need to be inspected or recertified?
Hurricane-rated pool enclosures do not require periodic recertification once initially approved and installed. However, we recommend: Annual inspections by the homeowner or contractor checking for loose fasteners or connections, damaged or corroded components, structural damage from impacts or accidents, proper screen tension and attachment, and foundation movement or settling. Professional inspection every 5 years ($200-$400) by licensed contractor provides detailed assessment including structural integrity verification, fastener condition and torque verification, aluminum corrosion inspection (rare but possible in extreme salt environments), engineering assessment if any modifications or repairs were made, and documentation for insurance purposes. After any hurricane or severe storm event, visual inspection should be performed checking for: torn or damaged screening (normal and replaceable), bent or damaged framework members, loosened connections or fasteners, and foundation attachment integrity. Keep all original engineering documents, NOA certificates, permit records, and inspection reports with your property records - valuable for insurance claims, future repairs, and resale documentation.
Service Areas
We proudly serve homeowners and businesses across South Florida
Miami-Dade County
- Miami
- Coral Gables
- Kendall
- Pinecrest
Broward County
- Fort Lauderdale
- Pembroke Pines
- Plantation
- Hollywood
Palm Beach County
- Boca Raton
- Delray Beach
- West Palm Beach
- Boynton Beach
Related Services
Explore our other professional services for your property
Patio Screening South Florida
Expert patio screen enclosures in Miami-Dade, Broward & Palm Beach. Standard, pet-resistant, privacy, and solar screening. Licensed contractor CC# 20-AL-21822-X. 30+ years experience. Free estimates.
Screen Repair South Florida
Expert screen repair and rescreening in Miami-Dade, Broward & Palm Beach. Same-day service available. 30+ years experience. Torn screens, frames, doors. Licensed contractor. Call (954) 548-1934
Fascia Board Replacement South Florida
Professional fascia board replacement and repair for screen enclosures in Miami-Dade, Broward & Palm Beach. Prevent water damage. Aluminum and PVC fascia. 30+ years experience. Call (954) 548-1934
Get Your Free Hurricane-Rated High Strength Pool Enclosures Estimate
Licensed contractor serving Miami-Dade, Broward & Palm Beach Counties. Call (954) 548-1934