Frequently Asked Questions

Florida Living Outdoor has the answer. Below is a list of the most commonly asked question by homeowners in

Florida Owners when trying to improve their outdoor spaces.

Don't find it here in the FAQ. Talk with FLO. Simply fill out the chat widget.

Got Questions About Motorized Screens or Pergolas

What is your phone number?

Florida Living Outdoor’s phone number is (386) 463-8494. Feel free to call anytime.

How do I schedule an appointment?

You can call the office or schedule a free 20-minute phone consultation online or schedule an appointment at the following calendar link https://floridalivingoutdoor.com/enhance-and-extend-outdoor-spaces/

Where is your office located?

Our office is located outside of Oviedo Florida, but we service the East Coast from New Smyrna Beach to Palm Coast and Central Florida from Oviedo to Mt Dora.

How do I get a quote?

You can call the office or schedule a free 20-minute phone consultation online or schedule an appointment at the following calendar link https://floridalivingoutdoor.com/enhance-and-extend-outdoor-spaces/

How long has Florida Living Outdoor been in business?

Florida Living Outdoor is owned and operated by Kip Hudakoz, who has spent 26 years in the Florida outdoor services industry. Kip is the owner-operator of Paramount Fencing and Custom Fence Orlando, where he built his reputation on custom-fabricated outdoor solutions — hand-crafted pergolas, custom fencing, and full backyard builds for homeowners across Central Florida.

He previously co-hosted The Florida Home and Garden radio show on News 96.5 "Ask the Experts," answering homeowner questions each week on outdoor design, fabrication, and installation.

In 2021, Kip launched Florida Living Outdoor — also known as FL Outdoors — as a separate brand built around one mission: delivering the ultimate backyard experience, with pergolas, motorized screens, awnings, custom fencing, and lighting all under one roof. Florida Living Outdoor was recognized by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ accreditation in 2024. What Kip enjoys most has not changed in 26 years — a new design, a new challenge, a new backyard to bring to life.

What does Florida Living Outdoor do?

FL Outdoor specializes in protecting and creating smart and usable outdoor spaces that your family can enjoy.

Do you have a showroom?

No. 99.5% of its business is done in a homeowner’s backyard. We have sample demo kits and brochures to create an understanding of the product. If you move forward, we can order a life-like rendering.

Do the screens come in different shades and colors? 

The housing units come in five colors: black, white, gray, bronze, and beige.  The screen mesh color varies.

What is a rendering:

A rendering is a lifelike photo of your home with the desired product applied. They look real.

Is there a place where I can see motorized screens?

Yes. I’m sure we can talk to one of our clients and see theirs.

What is in an in-home consultation?

We simply need to schedule a time and one of our estimators will come out and meet with you. They will take detailed measurements and find out your wants, needs, and desires.

Are all motorized screens the same? 

No. Motorized Screens serve different functions such as bug, solar, or storm protection.

What makes MagnaTrack so special? 

That is easy.  MagnaTrack uses free-floating inner tracks that release and reattach with opposite pull neodymium magnets. Combined with ballistic fiber the screens can stop a 2” x 4” traveling at fast speed.

What are the five basic components of a motorized screen?

The housing unit, track, and weight bar are the same. 

How important is the screen mesh?

The screen mesh can be as simple as something for bugs or maybe you need a solar screen to block damaging UV rays. They even make screen mesh with ballistic fiber that is meant for high wind load zones.

Do I have to be home for the consultation or estimate?

Yes. You need to be there. These products are highly customizable, and we need to know your wants, needs, and desires.

Can I get a price or quote over the phone?

No. These products are highly customizable, and prices may vary depending on your needs, wants, and desires.

How much does motorized screens and pergolas cost?

The MagnaTrack system is highly customizable.  Every project is different, Openings vary and the sub-strip of the unit is being attached.

How big of an opening can the motorized screen fit into?

MagnaTrack motorized screens can span 30’ and up to 20’ in height.

What is your lead time on motorized screens?

Start to finish currently they are 8 – 10 weeks.

Which is better MagnaTrack or Phantom? 

Well, the simple answer is MagnaTrack Motorized screens. Not because I say so, but because MagnaTrack is not a zipper track-based system.  MagnaTrack Possesses free-floating inner tracks held together by rare earth neodymium magnets.  Simply put, it takes 500 Lbs. of pressure to dislodge the screen from the sidetracks. The competitors are only 30 lbs.  Who needs service calls? 

Do you carry hurricane screens?

Yes. We carry the Defender Series by MagnaTrack.

What type of motorized screens do you carry?

Florida Living Outdoor is an authorized dealer for two motorized screen manufacturers, because no single product is the right answer for every application. For hurricane protection, we install the Defender Hurricane Screen by MagnaTrack — manufactured by Progressive Screens, a Hunter Douglas Company, in Sarasota, Florida. The Defender is Cat-5 rated, meets or exceeds Miami-Dade and Florida building code requirements for roll-down hurricane screens, and holds Florida Product Approval #F30798. We believe it is the best hurricane screen on the market. For daily shade, insect, UV, solar, and privacy applications, we install OneTrack by Fenetex. Fenetex has the upper hand in these categories, with a patented self-adjusting tension system, welded seams, and UV-stable fabrics designed for long-term exposure in Florida. We do not carry Phantom, Horizons, or Fintech motorized screens. We carry the products we believe do each job best.

Does the Hurricane Defender have a product approval code?

Yes. The Hurricane Defender has a product approval code.  It has the Florida Product Approval #F30798

Are the Motorized Screens Miami Dade approved?

No. But the MagnaTrack Motorized Screen system meets or exceeds Miami Dade and Florida building code requirements for roll-down hurricane screens. Therefore, it can be installed in Miami-Dade.

Do you install screen enclosures around pools or patios

No. We do not build or install screen enclosures around swimming pools.  We specialize in protecting and creating outdoor spaces with a click of a button.

Do you replace screen pool enclosures or blowout screens?

No. We do not.

Do you repair other companies' motorize screens?

Nope. We are a MagnaTrack Dealer. We do not carry Phantom, Horizons, or Fenetex.   We carry the number one screen in the world. MagnaTrack.

What type of pergolas do you carry?

We carry and install Azenco-Outdoors pergolas. They are known for the louver roofs and anti-leak system aka R-blade. They also carry R-shades.

Are the Azenco-Outdoor pergolas Miami Dade approved? 

Not yet, but we're working on it. Azenco is actively pursuing Miami-Dade product approval, and we're expecting it mid-2026. We'll update this page the moment it's official.

What colors do the pergolas come in?

There are three colors to select from such as black, white, and grayish bronze. 

How big is each pergola zone?

A louver roof zone can go 23 feet long by 15 wide. Solid roof pergolas can cover 22 feet by 22 feet.

Got Questions About Motorized Screens or Pergolas

What is your phone number?

Florida Living Outdoor’s phone number is (386) 463-8494. Feel free to call anytime.

How do I schedule an appointment?

You can call the office or schedule a free 20-minute phone consultation online or schedule an appointment at the following calendar link https://floridalivingoutdoor.com/enhance-and-extend-outdoor-spaces/

Where is your office located?

Our office is located outside of Oviedo Florida, but we service the East Coast from New Smyrna Beach to Palm Coast and Central Florida from Oviedo to Mt Dora.

How do I get a quote?

You can call the office or schedule a free 20-minute phone consultation online or schedule an appointment at the following calendar link https://floridalivingoutdoor.com/enhance-and-extend-outdoor-spaces/

How long has Florida Living Outdoor been in business?

Florida Living Outdoor is owned and operated by Kip Hudakoz, who has spent 26 years in the Florida outdoor services industry. Kip is the owner-operator of Paramount Fencing and Custom Fence Orlando, where he built his reputation on custom-fabricated outdoor solutions — hand-crafted pergolas, custom fencing, and full backyard builds for homeowners across Central Florida.

He previously co-hosted The Florida Home and Garden radio show on News 96.5 "Ask the Experts," answering homeowner questions each week on outdoor design, fabrication, and installation.

In 2021, Kip launched Florida Living Outdoor — also known as FL Outdoors — as a separate brand built around one mission: delivering the ultimate backyard experience, with pergolas, motorized screens, awnings, custom fencing, and lighting all under one roof. Florida Living Outdoor was recognized by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ accreditation in 2024. What Kip enjoys most has not changed in 26 years — a new design, a new challenge, a new backyard to bring to life.

What does Florida Living Outdoor do?

FL Outdoor specializes in protecting and creating smart and usable outdoor spaces that your family can enjoy.

Do you have a showroom?

No. 99.5% of its business is done in a homeowner’s backyard. We have sample demo kits and brochures to create an understanding of the product. If you move forward, we can order a life-like rendering.

Do the screens come in different shades and colors? 

The housing units come in five colors: black, white, gray, bronze, and beige.  The screen mesh color varies.

What is a rendering:

A rendering is a lifelike photo of your home with the desired product applied. They look real.

Is there a place where I can see motorized screens?

Yes. I’m sure we can talk to one of our clients and see theirs.

What is in an in-home consultation?

We simply need to schedule a time and one of our estimators will come out and meet with you. They will take detailed measurements and find out your wants, needs, and desires.

Are all motorized screens the same? 

No. Motorized Screens serve different functions such as bug, solar, or storm protection.

What makes MagnaTrack so special? 

That is easy.  MagnaTrack uses free-floating inner tracks that release and reattach with opposite pull neodymium magnets. Combined with ballistic fiber the screens can stop a 2” x 4” traveling at fast speed.

What are the five basic components of a motorized screen?

The housing unit, track, and weight bar are the same. 

How important is the screen mesh?

The screen mesh can be as simple as something for bugs or maybe you need a solar screen to block damaging UV rays. They even make screen mesh with ballistic fiber that is meant for high wind load zones.

Do I have to be home for the consultation or estimate?

Yes. You need to be there. These products are highly customizable, and we need to know your wants, needs, and desires.

Can I get a price or quote over the phone?

No. These products are highly customizable, and prices may vary depending on your needs, wants, and desires.

How much does motorized screens and pergolas cost?

The MagnaTrack system is highly customizable.  Every project is different, Openings vary and the sub-strip of the unit is being attached.

How big of an opening can the motorized screen fit into?

MagnaTrack motorized screens can span 30’ and up to 20’ in height.

What is your lead time on motorized screens?

Start to finish currently they are 8 – 10 weeks.

Which is better MagnaTrack or Phantom? 

Well, the simple answer is MagnaTrack Motorized screens. Not because I say so, but because MagnaTrack is not a zipper track-based system.  MagnaTrack Possesses free-floating inner tracks held together by rare earth neodymium magnets.  Simply put, it takes 500 Lbs. of pressure to dislodge the screen from the sidetracks. The competitors are only 30 lbs.  Who needs service calls? 

Do you carry hurricane screens?

Yes. We carry the Defender Series by MagnaTrack.

What type of motorized screens do you carry?

We carry the MagnaTrack Motorized screens Manufactured by Progressive Screens. The track system is the same, but the screen is configured to protect against, bugs, UV-Ray, rain, and storms.

Does the Hurricane Defender have a product approval code?

Yes. The Hurricane Defender has a product approval code.  It has the Florida Product Approval #F30798

Are the Motorized Screens Miami Dade approved?

No. But the MagnaTrack Motorized Screen system meets or exceeds Miami Dade and Florida building code requirements for roll-down hurricane screens. Therefore, it can be installed in Miami-Dade.

Do you install screen enclosures around pools or patios

No.  We do not build or install screen enclosures around swimming pools.  We specialize in protecting and creating outdoor spaces with a click of a button.

Do you replace screen pool enclosures or blowout screens?

No. We do not.

Do you repair other companies' motorize screens?

Nope. We are a MagnaTrack Dealer. We do not carry Phantom, Horizons, or Fenetex. We carry the number one screen in the world.  MagnaTrack.

What type of pergolas do you carry?

We carry and install Azenco-Outdoors pergolas. They are known for the louver roofs and anti-leak system aka R-blade. They also carry R-shades.

Are the Azenco-Outdoor pergolas Miami Dade approved? 

Not Yet, but we are working on it. It looks like June.

What colors do the pergolas come in?

There are three colors to select from such as black, white, and grayish bronze. 

How big is each pergola zone?

A louver roof zone can go 23 feet long by 15 wide. Solid roof pergolas can cover 22 feet by 22 feet.

Your Vision Deserves

A Partner

Who Listens...

Your Vision Deserves

A Partner

Who Listens...

HERE ARE A FEW THINGS THAT YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN

HERE ARE A FEW THINGS THAT YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN

Smart pergola in Fort Lauderdale featuring integrated MagnaTrack motorized screens, creating a shaded and bug-free outdoor living space. The image shows a modern backyard setup with a sleek aluminum pergola, outdoor seating, and fully deployed retractable screens for sun, wind, and privacy control. Installed by Florida Living Outdoor, a certified MagnaTrack dealer.

Smart Pergolas: Integrating Motorized Screens for Modern Outdoor Living in Fort Lauderdale

May 15, 20253 min read

Fort Lauderdale and Central Florida homeowners are no strangers to luxury—whether it's waterfront views, modern architecture, or sleek outdoor spaces. But even the most beautiful backyard can become unbearable when you're battling intense sun, biting bugs, or coastal wind. That's where smart pergolas and motorized screen systems come together to redefine outdoor comfort.

At Florida Living Outdoor, we specialize in designing and installing custom pergola systems with integrated MagnaTrack Motorized Screens powered by Progressive Screens. The result? An outdoor living space that adapts to the weather, your lifestyle, and the touch of a button.


The New Standard: Smart Outdoor Spaces

Today’s homeowner expects more than just shade—they want flexibility, automation, and a seamless aesthetic that elevates their property. Smart pergolas, often built with motorized louvers or retractable canopies, allow you to control how much sunlight and airflow enters your space.

But when combined with motorized retractable screens, the possibilities go even further. With one integrated system, you can:

  • Block bugs without blocking the breeze

  • Add privacy to your pool, patio, or outdoor kitchen

  • Filter UV rays to protect furniture and skin

  • Reduce wind load and debris from entering your space

  • Protect your investment from sudden Florida rainstorms

That’s what makes MagnaTrack Screens the perfect complement to a smart pergola system.


Why Choose MagnaTrack for Pergolas?

Unlike traditional retractable screens that use zipper tracks or exposed cables, MagnaTrack uses patented magnetic tensioning—keeping the screen aligned, taut, and self-correcting even in high wind conditions. This is especially critical for homes near the water in Fort Lauderdale, where gusts and salt air can wear down lesser systems quickly.

These screens don’t just deploy smoothly; they stay in place without jamming, billowing, or needing frequent adjustments. And thanks to their discreet design, they integrate perfectly into pergola posts, headers, and ceilings without disrupting your home’s architecture.

Curious how it works? See the full breakdown here:
👉 https://www.floridalivingoutdoor.com/magnatrack


Ideal for High-End Homes & Outdoor Retreats

Whether you’re building a modern outdoor living room or enhancing a classic backyard patio, smart pergolas with integrated screens offer unmatched sophistication and control. Clients in Fort Lauderdale, Davie, and other luxury markets are choosing this combination to:

  • Maximize usable space in all weather conditions

  • Protect outdoor kitchens, TVs, and furniture

  • Create private escapes in open-concept yards

  • Add resale value through functional, beautiful upgrades

And with the added benefit of motorized operation, you can control your shade, airflow, and visibility from a wall switch, smartphone, or home automation system.


Installed by Florida Living Outdoor: Experience That Matters

At Florida Living Outdoor, we don’t just install screens—we engineer custom outdoor environments built to perform and impress. As a MagnaTrack Certified Dealer, we design every system to match your home’s architecture and your lifestyle needs.

With over 25 years in the outdoor service industry, we’ve worked on some of the most beautiful pergola and lanai projects in Fort Lauderdale and across South and Central Florida. Our focus? Listening first, delivering quality, and ensuring your system works flawlessly—day in, day out.


Ready to Upgrade Your Pergola?

If you’re considering a new pergola—or want to enhance an existing one with motorized privacy, bug protection, or storm-readiness—we’re ready to help. Let’s turn your outdoor space into a smart, shaded sanctuary with Florida’s most advanced retractable screen system.

👉 Request your free quote now


Related Links:

Smart pergolas FloridaMotorized pergola screensRetractable screen pergola systemPergola with privacy screensMagnaTrack screen integrationPergola contractor FloridaSmart outdoor spaces South FloridaMotorized screens Fort LauderdalePergola builder near me FloridaWind-resistant screen for pergolaPergola screen system cost
blog author image

Khudakoz

Kip Hudakozs is the world renouned author that writes about the outdoor spaces.

Back to Blog

HERE ARE A FEW THINGS THAT YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN

HERE ARE A FEW THINGS THAT YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN

Smart pergola in Fort Lauderdale featuring integrated MagnaTrack motorized screens, creating a shaded and bug-free outdoor living space. The image shows a modern backyard setup with a sleek aluminum pergola, outdoor seating, and fully deployed retractable screens for sun, wind, and privacy control. Installed by Florida Living Outdoor, a certified MagnaTrack dealer.

Smart Pergolas: Integrating Motorized Screens for Modern Outdoor Living in Fort Lauderdale

May 15, 20253 min read

Fort Lauderdale and Central Florida homeowners are no strangers to luxury—whether it's waterfront views, modern architecture, or sleek outdoor spaces. But even the most beautiful backyard can become unbearable when you're battling intense sun, biting bugs, or coastal wind. That's where smart pergolas and motorized screen systems come together to redefine outdoor comfort.

At Florida Living Outdoor, we specialize in designing and installing custom pergola systems with integrated MagnaTrack Motorized Screens powered by Progressive Screens. The result? An outdoor living space that adapts to the weather, your lifestyle, and the touch of a button.


The New Standard: Smart Outdoor Spaces

Today’s homeowner expects more than just shade—they want flexibility, automation, and a seamless aesthetic that elevates their property. Smart pergolas, often built with motorized louvers or retractable canopies, allow you to control how much sunlight and airflow enters your space.

But when combined with motorized retractable screens, the possibilities go even further. With one integrated system, you can:

  • Block bugs without blocking the breeze

  • Add privacy to your pool, patio, or outdoor kitchen

  • Filter UV rays to protect furniture and skin

  • Reduce wind load and debris from entering your space

  • Protect your investment from sudden Florida rainstorms

That’s what makes MagnaTrack Screens the perfect complement to a smart pergola system.


Why Choose MagnaTrack for Pergolas?

Unlike traditional retractable screens that use zipper tracks or exposed cables, MagnaTrack uses patented magnetic tensioning—keeping the screen aligned, taut, and self-correcting even in high wind conditions. This is especially critical for homes near the water in Fort Lauderdale, where gusts and salt air can wear down lesser systems quickly.

These screens don’t just deploy smoothly; they stay in place without jamming, billowing, or needing frequent adjustments. And thanks to their discreet design, they integrate perfectly into pergola posts, headers, and ceilings without disrupting your home’s architecture.

Curious how it works? See the full breakdown here:
👉 https://www.floridalivingoutdoor.com/magnatrack


Ideal for High-End Homes & Outdoor Retreats

Whether you’re building a modern outdoor living room or enhancing a classic backyard patio, smart pergolas with integrated screens offer unmatched sophistication and control. Clients in Fort Lauderdale, Davie, and other luxury markets are choosing this combination to:

  • Maximize usable space in all weather conditions

  • Protect outdoor kitchens, TVs, and furniture

  • Create private escapes in open-concept yards

  • Add resale value through functional, beautiful upgrades

And with the added benefit of motorized operation, you can control your shade, airflow, and visibility from a wall switch, smartphone, or home automation system.


Installed by Florida Living Outdoor: Experience That Matters

At Florida Living Outdoor, we don’t just install screens—we engineer custom outdoor environments built to perform and impress. As a MagnaTrack Certified Dealer, we design every system to match your home’s architecture and your lifestyle needs.

With over 25 years in the outdoor service industry, we’ve worked on some of the most beautiful pergola and lanai projects in Fort Lauderdale and across South and Central Florida. Our focus? Listening first, delivering quality, and ensuring your system works flawlessly—day in, day out.


Ready to Upgrade Your Pergola?

If you’re considering a new pergola—or want to enhance an existing one with motorized privacy, bug protection, or storm-readiness—we’re ready to help. Let’s turn your outdoor space into a smart, shaded sanctuary with Florida’s most advanced retractable screen system.

👉 Request your free quote now


Related Links:

Smart pergolas FloridaMotorized pergola screensRetractable screen pergola systemPergola with privacy screensMagnaTrack screen integrationPergola contractor FloridaSmart outdoor spaces South FloridaMotorized screens Fort LauderdalePergola builder near me FloridaWind-resistant screen for pergolaPergola screen system cost
blog author image

Khudakoz

Kip Hudakozs is the world renouned author that writes about the outdoor spaces.

Back to Blog