How to Clean Screen Enclosures After a Storm

Storms can leave behind a mess of dirt, debris, and even damage to your screen enclosure. Whether it’s a heavy rainstorm, a strong wind, or a full-blown hurricane, cleaning and checking your screen enclosure after a storm is very important to keep it in good condition. Storms can bring fallen leaves, branches, mud, and even standing water, all of which can affect your screens and the structure around them. In this blog, we will guide you through the steps to clean and maintain your screen enclosure after a storm.

Step 1: Check for Damage

Before you start cleaning, take a moment to check your screen enclosure for any damage. Look over the structure carefully for:

• Torn or ripped screens: Strong winds and falling debris can sometimes rip or puncture your screens. If you see any damage, you may need to repair or replace them.
• Bent or broken frame: High winds or debris can bend or break the frame of the enclosure. Make sure the frame is still solid before you start cleaning.
• Clogged or damaged gutters: If your screen enclosure has gutters or downspouts, check to see if they are blocked or broken by debris. Blocked gutters can cause water to pool around the enclosure and cause more damage.

Once you’ve checked for damage, make a note of any repairs that need to be done before you begin cleaning.

Step 2: Remove Large Debris

Start by picking up large debris like tree branches, leaves, and twigs from the screen enclosure. You can do this by:

• Using a rake: If the debris is scattered in your yard or garden, a rake works well for gathering leaves and smaller branches.
• Using a broom or leaf blower: If debris has settled on the screens, you can use a broom with soft bristles or a leaf blower to clear it off. Be gentle to avoid damaging the mesh.

Make sure to clear away any fallen branches or other objects from the area around your screen enclosure to keep your work area safe and clean.

Step 3: Wash the Screens

After removing the larger debris, it’s time to clean the screens themselves. Over time, dirt, dust, and other particles can build up on your screens, which reduces their effectiveness and can make them look dirty. Here’s how to clean them properly:

• Use a garden hose: For light cleaning, use a garden hose with a gentle spray nozzle to rinse the screen enclosure. Start from the top and work your way down so that dirt and debris are washed away.
• Soapy water for tough stains: If your screens have heavy dirt or stains, mix a small amount of dish soap or mild detergent with warm water. Use a sponge or soft cloth to scrub the screens gently, focusing on areas with visible dirt or stains. Avoid using harsh cleaners, as they can damage the mesh.
• Scrub with a soft brush: For stubborn dirt or mildew, you can use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the screens. Make sure to avoid using rough brushes, as they could tear the mesh.
• Rinse well: After cleaning, rinse the screens with clean water to make sure all soap or cleaning solution is removed.

Step 4: Clean the Frame and Surrounding Areas

While cleaning the screens is the main focus, don’t forget about the frame and other parts of the screen enclosure. Storms can cause mud, dirt, and algae to build up on the frame and surrounding areas, so cleaning them is important to prevent damage.

• Wipe down the frame: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the frame, making sure to clean off any dirt, grime, or water stains. If you notice rust or corrosion, try using a rust remover or a mixture of vinegar and water to clean those areas.
• Check corners and joints: Storms can push debris into the corners and joints of the frame. Use a small brush or a vacuum with a hose attachment to clean out these hard-to-reach spots.
• Clean the door and hardware: Don’t forget to clean the door and any hardware, such as locks, hinges, and handles. Over time, water and mud can build up, making the door hard to open or close. Cleaning these areas ensures everything moves smoothly.

Step 5: Check for Drainage Issues

After a storm, drainage problems can happen, especially if gutters or downspouts are blocked by debris. Standing water can harm your screen enclosure and nearby structures, so it’s important to check the drainage:

• Inspect the gutters: If your screen enclosure has gutters, check to see if they are clogged with leaves, twigs, or other debris. Clean them out to ensure water can flow through easily.
• Check for standing water: Look around the base of the enclosure for standing water. If water is gathering near the foundation, it could cause damage. You may need to add more soil or fix drainage solutions to help move the water away from your home.
• Clean drainage systems: If your screen enclosure has built-in drains, check to make sure they are clear of debris. This helps ensure that water doesn’t pool around your home.

Step 6: Repair Any Damage

Once the cleaning is done, it’s time to address any damage you found earlier. If there are holes or tears in the screens, consider repairing or replacing them. Here’s what you can do:

• Screen repair kits: You can buy screen repair kits at most home improvement stores. These kits usually include patches and adhesive to cover small holes or tears in the mesh.
• Professional screen replacement: If the damage is more serious, it may be best to call a professional to replace the screens. They can do the job quickly and make sure the screens are installed correctly.
• Frame repairs: If the frame is bent or broken, it may need to be replaced or fixed. This can be done by a professional or a skilled DIYer with the right tools.

Step 7: Prevent Future Storm Damage

After cleaning and making repairs, consider taking steps to protect your screen enclosure from future storm damage. Here are some tips:

• Install gutter guards: Gutter guards can help reduce the amount of debris that gets stuck in your gutters, preventing blockages.
• Reinforce the frame: If you live in an area that experiences strong storms, consider reinforcing the frame or adding storm shutters to protect your screens during severe weather.
• Regular maintenance: Perform regular maintenance, such as cleaning your screens every few months, to keep your enclosure in good condition.

Conclusion

Cleaning your screen enclosure after a storm is essential to keep it in great shape. By following these simple steps—checking for damage, removing debris, washing the screens, cleaning the frame, checking drainage, and repairing any damage—you can restore your screen enclosure and prevent further issues. Regular cleaning and maintenance will help extend the life of your screen enclosure and keep it looking its best for years to come.

Taking action after a storm is a simple yet effective way to protect your home and ensure your screen enclosure remains functional and in good condition.