
Keeping Critters Out of Your Pool Area

A backyard pool is the perfect escape during hot weather but it’s not quite as enjoyable when pests invade. Keeping them out of your pool area is important for more than just comfort, it’s also important for safety and maintenance. If your screen has tears, gaps, or weak spots, it can invite unwanted critters into your pool area. Bugs, lizards, snakes, and even raccoons can find their way inside. In this guide, we will explore why pests invade pool areas, how to prevent them, and why kickplates, No-See-Um screens, and proper maintenance are essential for keeping your pool pest-free.
Common Pests That Invade Pool Enclosures
If your screen enclosure has holes, gaps, or weakened edges, you may start noticing unwanted visitors. Some of the most common culprits include:
• Snakes

Florida is home to various snake species, some harmless and others best avoided. If you see snakes around, it might mean there are rodents nearby. A loose screen or small opening in your screen can allow them to slither inside your enclosure. If you have spotted snake skins near your enclosure, it is a sign they have found a way in.
Prevention Tip:
- Seal gaps at the base of your enclosure with a kickplate to block entry.
• Raccoons and Rodents
Raccoons, aka Trash Pandas are notorious for tearing screens, especially if they smell food nearby. Squirrels, mice and rats can chew through screens, creating openings for more pests.
Prevention Tip:
- Use heavy-duty screen materials that resist tearing.
- Keep food, pet bowls, and garbage cans away from the pool area.
• Mosquitoes and No-See-Ums
Small bugs can squeeze through traditional screens, making outdoor time unbearable.
Prevention Tip:
- Upgrade to No-See-Um screen mesh, designed to block even the tiniest insects.
How to Pest-Proof Your Pool Enclosure
1. Install Kickplates to Keep Out Creepy-Crawlies.
Kickplates – solid panels installed at the bottom of the enclosure, act as a physical barrier against snakes, raccoons, and other critters. They also protect against lawn equipment damage and help reduce screen wear near the ground.
2. Repair or Replace Damaged Screens
Even a small hole can lead to big pest problems. If your screen is damaged:
- Patch small tears using a screen repair kit.
- Replace larger damaged sections with a stronger screen material.
3. Use Heavy-Duty or No-See-Um Screens
- Pet-resistant screens deter raccoons and rodents.
- No-See-Um screens keep out mosquitoes and small bugs.
4. Keep the Area Around Your Enclosure Pest-Free
- Trim overhanging branches to prevent squirrels from jumping onto the enclosure.
- Remove standing water to avoid mosquito breeding.
- Keep garbage bins and pet food sealed to avoid attracting raccoons.
Protect Your Pool Area from Pests Today!
If pests are sneaking into your pool enclosure, it may be time to repair your screens or install kickplates for better protection.
Call Pool Screens R Us today for a free estimate on pest-proofing your enclosure!

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