Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use a pool enclosure?
How are Libart Enclosures designed to retract?
How are the enclosures heated in the cold winter months?
What about ventilation and humidity control in the enclosure?
Do they operate manually or is there an automated option available?
Will a Pool Enclosure be sturdy enough to handle my climate?
What are the materials used in the Libart Frame?
What is “glazing” and what does Libart use for itʼs glazing material?
What about protection from harmful UV Rays?
Will I need a Building Permit for a Pool Enclosure?
What is the Libart Warranty?
What are my options for pool enclosures?

How can I use a pool enclosure?

Today, thanks largely to products such as pool enclosures, your outdoor space can be reclaimed as indoor space for use year round. Instead of 2 to 3 months of use out of the year, you will now have year round enjoyment of your investment. Your enclosure will:

• Increase the square footage of your living area, thus increasing the value of your property.
• Help you save money in this sensitive economic market providing you the opportunity to vacation in their own backyard, enjoying the privacy that enclosures provide.
• Let you entertain family and friends any day of the year . . . . regardless of the weather.
• Improve your health and overall quality of life through year round availability to water fitness exercise.
• Minimize the amount of time and expense required to keep your pool clean and usable.
• Increase the security

How are Libart Enclosures designed to retract?

Libart Retractable Enclosures are engineered and installed in a progression of arched bays that retract in a telescopic fashion, delivering a open air environment (ie... clear sky opening) that can be enjoyed when the weather cooperates.

• These enclosures can be opened an inch, a foot, or all the way to provide any level of outdoor exposure that you desire.
• Enclosures can have a bi-parting (R-1 or R-2) or unilateral design (R3 or R-4)
• In a bi-parting design, the enclosure splits in the middle with half the bays retracting toward each end. The largest bays can be placed on the gable ends with the smaller middle bays retracting underneath (ie...R-1 Retraction). Or the smallest bays can be placed on the gable ends with the larger middle bays retracting over the top (ie....R-2 Retraction).
• In a unilateral design, all the bays retract from one gable end (ie...operable end) to the other (ie... fixed end). The smallest bays can be placed on the “operable” gable end and will retract under the bay on the “fixed” gable end (R-3). Or the largest bays can be placed on the “operable” gable end and will retract over the bays on the “fixed” gable end (R-4).
• In unilateral retraction methods, the flat gable end wall will move with the operable gable end bay. If obstructions are existing, such as hand rails or diving boards, a “flip wall” or a “bi-folding” door system can be designed into the flat gable end on the operable gable end bay to provide clearance during retraction.
• With all retraction methods, rail extensions can be installed to provide additional retraction and “clear sky” exposure over your pool area.

How are the enclosures heated in the cold winter months?

Most Libart clients manage their enclosures similar to a vacation home. They only heat their enclosure when they are using it, keeping the operational costs in check.

• The Solar Heat Gain (ie... “Greenhouse Effect”) is tremendous, even on cloudy winter days. This benefit is absolutely FREE and can keep your pool water up to 20 degrees warmer.
• Pool water is typically kept at 80 degrees during the winter swim season. This is a huge “heat sync” (20,000 gallons of hot water) and can often provide enough heat within the enclosure to create a comfortable environment.
• Libart highly recommends the use of a solar blanket over the surface of the pool when the enclosure is not in use as it reduces heat loss and humidity accumulation in the enclosure environment.
• Electric or gas-powered heaters are readily available on the market if a additional climate control is desired. Care must be taken to insure that all components of these systems are either Stainless Steel or Aluminum to avoid deterioration and rusting due the chemicals & high humidity present in an enclosed pool environment. For more information, talk with your Libart Project Manager.

What about ventilation and humidity control in the enclosure?

• Keeping operational costs low for our clients is our main ambition at Libart North America.
• Libart Enclosures are designed to “breathe” naturally with a built-in passive ventilation system that works similar to the ventilation system utilized in most residential homes.
• The clever Libart ventilation system helps client save on the cost of an expensive air-handling / de-humidification systems that can cost $30K to $60K on average.
• High end air-exchange systems are required for all “fixed/stationary” type enclosures to dissipate the build up of chemical odors and humidity. Windows and Doors will not provide adequate ventilation in the hot summer months, rendering the indoor pool practically unusable.

Do they operate manually or is there an automated option available?

• Due to the smooth operation resulting from Libart’s patented SecurTrakTM rail system, enclosure automation is typically not required. Manual operation can usually be easily accomplished in minutes with just one person applying pressure on only one side of the enclosure system. A seven year old 60 pound girl has been witnessed operating a 30 foot wide enclosure in the past.
• Libart’s patented SecurTrakTM, SecurLokTM, and proprietary non-metallic wheel systems keep the< enclosure from binding during the entire retraction process.
• Libart also offers an Industry Exclusive Low Voltage Automation Upgrade that can be installed on new or existing Libart Enclosures.
• This wireless automation system is powered by 24v DC motors and can be controlled by a remote control or keyed wall switch. On average, the 24v battery pack can operate a typical enclosure nearly 4 hours continuously. Batteries can be recharged using small solar panels making the entire system self-contained with very low operational costs.
• This automation upgrade can operate in concert with your Home Automation and Alarm Systems.
• Seamless, low profile design delivers quiet operation and a very low visual impact.
• Libart’s low voltage system avoids the costly expense of “grounding” the entire enclosure which would be required for 120v automation systems.
• Typically, this upgrade is effective for large enclosure systems; or, those placed on rooftops where manual operation is inconvenient or impossible. Also, it is frequently a “must-have” upgrade for handicapped or senior homeowners.

Will a Pool Enclosure be sturdy enough to handle my climate?

• All Libart Enclosure Systems are engineered to exceed International Building Code for your site specific requirements and back up with a comprehensive Engineering Report that is wet-stamped by a Structural Engineer. This GUARANTEES that your Libart Enclosure will endure whatever your climate can throw at it.
• One critical component is that Libart Retractable Enclosures are engineered and installed with a patented SecureTrakTM rail system. It ensures structural integrity when subjected to snow and compound loads and securely holds down the enclosure protecting it from upward lift caused by sudden gusts of wind.
• Zero catastrophic failures have occurred with a Libart Enclosure . . . . in history!

What are the materials used in the Libart Frame?

• Libart Retractable Pool Enclosures consist of custom extruded aircraft aluminum framing members. In the industry, this type of aluminum is known as 6061-T6 and is the highest grade available on the market today.
• Framing members are are available in 3 standard colors (white, desert tan, sandalwood) or over 200 custom colors to match any home’s decor or client’s design palette.
• Powder coated enclosure frames deliver a lasting finish that can be easily repaired on site if scratched or damaged.
• Libart has a proprietary design to all it’s framing members that are extruded to exacting specifications. An internal condensate collection system helps channel water through the frame and out of the enclosure system, providing a comfortable and dry environment.
• Stainless steel fastening hardware is used to prevent rusting and catastrophic failure of the enclosure system as result of the constant exposure to high humidity and caustic chemicals.
• All doors and windows are made of Aluminum and Stainless Steel components to prevent deterioration and failure due to the high humidity and caustic chemicals that are ever present inside enclosed pool environments.

What is “glazing” and what does Libart use for itʼs glazing material?

• GLAZING is defined as “panes” or sheets of transparent material (typically glass) that is set into frames as in windows or doors, to provide a clear view while maintaining climate control.
• Libart utilizes Polycarbonate glazing which is a thermoplastic shatterproof glass substitute that is 200 times stronger and 7 times lighter than glass. It is often known as “Lexan” which is simply a brand name of polycarbonate developed by General Electric.
• Polycarbonate glazing acts as passive solar heat collectors which increase the temperature of the enclosed pool environment.
• Libart’s Polycarbonate glazing features a specially developed coating on the inner surface which reduces the formation of condensation droplets and eliminates yellowing discoloration. The glazing is extremely durable and can be subjected to the extremes of weather conditions, storms, snowfalls and ice formation.
• Beware of Acrylic glazing which will shatter under impact and yellow over time. A brand name of Acrylic is known as “Plexi-glass”.
• Glass sidewalls can be ordered as an upgrade with Libart. All glass in a pool enclosure must be tempered and laminated in accordanc

What about protection from harmful UV Rays?

• Libart’s advanced polycarbonate panels, used as the enclosure’s glazing, have a co-extruded layer that blocks 99% of the UV rays from the sun.
• Libart Enclosures are accredited by the National Cancer Society for doing their part in reducing the incidence of skin cancer since UV rays are practically eliminated.
• UV Rays are the prime suspect in deteriorating vinyl pool liners and fading furniture fabrics. Libart’s polycarbonate glazing can substantially increase the life of these items saving thousands over time.

Will I need a Building Permit for a Pool Enclosure?

• All Libart Enclosures are engineered and built to exceed International Building Code.
• In most areas, a Building Permit is required when you erect a structure on your property for the satisfaction of public safety mandates.
• In all cases, the definitive authority on Building Permits is your Local Building Department who should always be consulted when considering any Building Project.
• Insurance claims have often been denied if it is discovered that a structure has been erected without proper permitting and inspections.

Do I need to be concerned about foundation requirements?

• In most cases, a frost protected foundation is required. This protects your pool deck from movement as a result of the freeze ~ thaw cycle experienced in most of North America.
• The implications of pool deck movement have to do with the small clearance gaps between the different size bays in a Libart Enclosure System. Even a small amount of movement in your pool deck due to frost heave, when translated from the base to the peak of the enclosure system, could close these nominal clearance gaps and render your enclosure inoperable.
• Libart provides a comprehensive Engineering Report and wet-stamped plans by a Structural Engineer for every project. This includes the foundation plan as well.

How can a pool enclosure help save time and money on pool maintenance?

• Whether you use a maintenance company or do it yourself, having a pool enclosure significantly reduces the amount of time and money you’ll spend on pool maintenance.
• By keeping your enclosure closed when not in use, your pool remains free from leaves, bugs and other unwanted debris. Since debris will not be blown into the pool, vacuuming and cleaning become less of a chore. An additional benefit is that your filter stays cleaner.
• The real benefit here is that your pool is always ready to use, whenever you are. And let’s not forget the hundreds of dollars spent each year to open & close your pool.

How will a pool enclosure save me money on energy & chemical costs?

• By reducing evaporation and heat loss in your pool, an average energy savings can be realized in the 30% to 50% range for most North American climates.
• An additional way an enclosure can save energy is by allowing your filter to be more efficient and therefore run for less time while delivering the same performance.
• Pool Enclosures significantly reduce evaporation of pool water. This maintains a more consistent PH balance delivering substantial savings on pool chemicals.
• Thinking longer term, an enclosure can also help in a more general way by protecting your pool from the elements and thereby giving it a longer life. Also, by reducing the pressure on both your heating and filtration systems, they will hopefully last longer and need less frequent replacement.

How does a Pool Enclosure help with Pool Security?

• Enclosures can provide a strong measure of safety from accidents involving children and pets.
• The law is very clear in most areas. You are required to make sure your pool is safe, not only for your family, but also for friends and guests. By law, you must provide an effective safety barrier for your pool or face a hefty fine.
• The options for doing this range from installing a pool alarm, fencing your pool off and/or installing a lockable swimming pool enclosure. And while the enclosure is the most expensive option, it also provides many other valuable benefits.
• Swimming pool enclosures provide an unparalleled level of safety and security for your pool. It is for the reasons stated above that Libart strongly recommends that pool owners keep their pool enclosures closed and locked when not in use.
• In addition to a secure locking system for the enclosure, it is vital that all windows and doors have locking features. Shockingly, the windows and doors

What is the Libart Warranty?

• Libart’s Exclusive Warranty covers 10 Full Years on Structural Components and Polycarbonate Glazing Panels, 5 Years on the Frame Finish, and 2 Years on all Operable Hardware and Accessories. A copy of this warranty can be obtained upon request.

What are my options for pool enclosures?

• Starting on the low end, there is the “inflatable dome” enclosure type.
• Available for under $10,000 for a typical residential swimming pool.
• Provides a useful life of up to 3 or 4 years but requires annual installation and storage.
• Unexpected punctures in the wintertime can deliver costly pool repair bills in the spring.
• Can cost an average of two to three thousand dollars per season (Investment / Life Span).
• On the other end of the spectrum, there is the ultra-expensive “fixed” enclosure.
• Primarily used on commercial buildings (or very expensive residential homes), the average cost per square foot is between $200 to $450. An enclosure measuring 25’ wide by 40’ long (that’s 1,000 square feet) would cost in the $200,000 to $450,000 range.
• Constructed of conventional building materials as well as glass & aluminum.
• Structures are stationary and do not open so you’re stuck inside on a nice summer day.
• High end ventilation and air-exchange systems are required for these structures to mitigate the strong chemical smell and high humidity that is common in any indoor pool environment.
• Or finally an affordable pool enclosure, a Libart Retractable Pool Enclosure System.
• Typically, Libart Retractable Pool Enclosures fall between $50 and $75 USD per square foot. Many residential models range in size from 800 to 1,600 square feet and can be custom designed to be attached directly to your home providing climate controlled access all year long. On an annual basis over a 25 year life span, the investment is roughly equal to that of an Inflatable Dome Enclosure.
• Delivers all the indoor comfort and security of a conventional structure yet can be converted to an open air environment in minutes delivering that outdoor freedom that everyone craves.
• Retractable Enclosures can also be relocated with you and your family if desired.