Below are some of the common questions we receive about Porch Enclosure Systems. For questions not covered here, use our contact form below for a timely response. We can also be reached at [email protected] or by phone at 410-775-5555.
FAQ
Over time will the vinyl glass become cloudy, yellow or mildew?
No. Our vinyl sheet glass goes through a special manufacturing process that improves the density and clarity of the material. Unlike inferior products, it will not yellow or mildew over time. Keeping your glass in great condition is based on minimal maintenance. If you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, your glass will provide years after year of excellent clarity.
Is a porch enclosure flammable?
While all materials will burn, we do offer FR rated products for commercial installations or when concerns of fire are an issue.
How does the enclosure attach to my porch?
Each curtain attaches at the top with a header track and along the sides with self-locking, low profile fasteners. Your PES representative will help you determine the best approach for attaching the Porch Enclosure System to your patio or gazebo.
Can I take my porch enclosure down (store it) in summer?
Yes, you simply need to loosen 2 stainless steel screws to remove the curtains from their header tracks. Most customers find this unnecessary, since when rolled up the curtains are very low-profile. Your porch enclosure rolls up into its own casing, its acrylic coated polyester border material. This material was originally developed to protect military vehicles in the desert and protects the vinyl glass when not in use. This way your porch enclosure is ready to deploy when summer thunderstorms threaten to soak your porch.
How do the curtains attach at the bottom?
Floor or bottom mounting is not required in most instances, because each curtain has a galvanized roll bar stitched into the bottom. This roll bar extends across the bottom of the curtain, adding rigidity and a crisp, clean “cabana-like” look to the panel when it’s down. Just above the roll bar on the left and right edge of your curtain is the lower-most self-locking fastener, which keeps everything securely in place even in windy conditions.
Can I choose the placement (height) of my vinyl glass?
Yes. However we recommend some fabric on top so the vinyl glass is protected (covered) when your curtain is rolled up. The amount of fabric needed is dependent on placement and height of your curtain.
What is the wind rating for your enclosures?
Porch enclosure systems are designed to perform well in heavy wind. The high-quality materials used are the same ones used in the marine industry, including enclosures for ocean-going yachts, and in the automotive industry on automobile tops on convertible vehicles. Our PES curtains are made with heavy winds in mind. While your Porch Enclosure System can withstand strong winds for extended periods of time, we still recommended rolling up your enclosure when hurricane force winds are expected to prolong the life the curtains.
What is your service area?
If installation is required, our service area includes Maryland & Delaware. However, our ability to manufacture and ship our Maryland-made porch enclosures to order means we have many happy customers all over the USA and Canada. Each porch enclosure kit includes DIY instructions you can follow yourself or share with your local handyman.
Do you offer a warranty?
Yes. Porch Enclosure Systems guarantees all stitching and product defects for 2 years, and our fabric has a 5 year warranty. The vinyl glass does not carry a warranty since very basic care is required in order to guarantee many years of enjoyment. For example, if you roll down your enclosure and don’t fasten it, it may suffer damage in heavy winds.
How difficult is it to install a porch enclosure system?
Each porch enclosure system includes DIY instructions you can follow yourself or share with your local handyman. We are also available by phone to support your installation. Our curtains arrive labeled for each specific opening and mostly preassembled so you can start hanging them in minutes. Complete installation usually takes our team 1.5 to 2 hours; add an additional hour if you hire a handyman or are DIYing the install. For the best fit it is recommended you install your enclosure on a good weather day, without rain or wind.
What colors are available?
We have many colors to choose from. See a complete color chart here.
Is the window available tinted?
Our standard installation includes untinted 20 Gauge (.02 GA) glass. However, if you wish to upgrade to tinted glass, this is available in our 30 Gauge (.03 GA) sheet glass product.
Can I add my company logo to the sheet glass?
Yes. Logos can be added to our 30 Gauge (.03 GA) sheet glass product.
What is the production / delivery time on my custom porch enclosure?
Allow 3-4 weeks for production once final measurements and payment are received.
How is payment made?
We accept all major credit cards and payment by check. For installations done by PES, we require a 50% downpayment.
Can I install the curtains on the inside of my patio or porch?
Yes. Inside installation is the most common method when putting in an enclosure on a second story, or when you wish to hide/protect your curtains from the outside when rolled up. Just keep in mind an outside install protects more of your porch and can handle higher winds.
Ask Questions
You may also email us with questions at [email protected] . Please include photos for our team to review.
