Screened In Porch Enclosures - The Complete Homeowner’s Guide

Updated for July 2024

Screened-in porch Enclosures offer a perfect blend of indoor comfort and outdoor enjoyment. They shield you from rain, wind, insects, and other elements while also providing privacy. Whether you want a cozy space for relaxing or a functional area for entertaining, screened-in porch enclosures enhance your home's appeal and value. This guide covers the benefits, types, materials, and installation tips for screened-in porch enclosures, ensuring you make an informed decision for your home.

What are Screened In Porch Enclosures?

Screened-in porch enclosures are structures that allow you to enjoy the outdoors while being protected from the elements and insects. These enclosures consist of a framework that supports screens or mesh, creating a barrier that lets in fresh air and sunlight while keeping out rain, wind, and pests.

Key Features of Screened-In Porch Enclosures

1. Protection from Elements: Screened enclosures shield against rain, wind, and sun, allowing you to use your porch in various weather conditions.

2. Insect Control: The screens prevent bugs and insects from entering, allowing people to enjoy the outdoors without the nuisance of bites and stings.

3. Privacy: Screened enclosures can offer privacy, making your outdoor space feel more secluded and comfortable.

4. Additional Living Space: These enclosures effectively extend your home's living area, providing a versatile space for dining, relaxing, or entertaining.

5. Increased Home Value: A well-designed screened porch can enhance your home's appeal and resale value.

Components of Screened-In Porch Enclosures

1. Frame Materials: The frame can be made from various materials, each with its advantages:

   • Composite: Durable and low-maintenance, resistant to rot and insects.

   • Cedar: Naturally resistant to rot and insects but requires regular sealing or painting.

   • Structural Lumber: Pressure-treated or weather-sealed lumber offers strength and durability.

2. Screen Materials: The screens are available in different materials to suit various needs:

   • Vinyl: Affordable and available in various colors, but less durable than other options.

   • Fiberglass: Strong, weather-resistant, and maintains its shape well.

   • Steel: Highly durable and secure, though it can oxidize over time.

3. Roofing Materials: The roof can be customized to provide different levels of protection and light:

   • Translucent Fiberglass Panels: Allow sunlight in while providing some UV protection.

   • Asphalt Shingles: Offer more UV protection and are durable but block natural light.

   • Metal Roofing: Highly durable and weather-resistant, available in various styles and colors.

Benefits of Screened-In Porch Enclosures

1. Year-Round Use: Enjoy your outdoor space in any season, protected from weather extremes.

2. Increased Comfort: Create a comfortable outdoor environment without the nuisance of insects.

3. Enhanced Aesthetics: Improve your home's curb appeal and overall aesthetic with a well-designed enclosure.

4. Health and Wellness: Spending more time outdoors can reduce stress and improve mood, while still being protected from harsh weather conditions.

Types of Screened-In Porch Enclosures

1. Traditional Porch Enclosure: Features a fixed roof and walls, offering year-round protection.

2. Retractable Roof Porch Enclosure: Provides flexibility with a roof that can be opened or closed as needed.

3. Insulated Porch Enclosure: Keeps the interior comfortable in both hot and cold weather, making it suitable for all seasons.

Installation and Maintenance

DIY Installation Steps:

1. Planning and Permits: Check local building codes and obtain necessary permits. Plan the layout and design of your porch.

2. Prepare the Site: Clear the area of any debris or obstructions. Level the ground and mark the perimeter of the porch.

3. Build the Frame: Use composite, cedar, or structural lumber for the frame. Construct the frame, starting with the base and moving to the vertical supports and roof structure.

4. Install the Roof: Choose your roofing material (translucent fiberglass panels, asphalt shingles, or metal roofing). Install the roof according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

5. Screen the Porch: Select your screen material (vinyl, fiberglass, or steel). Cut the screens to size and attach them to the frame using spline and a spline roller.

6. Finishing Touches: Install doors, seal or paint the wood, and add desired features like lighting or fans.

Maintenance Tips:

• Regularly inspect the screens for tears or damage and repair as needed.

• Clean the screens periodically to remove dirt and debris.

• Re-seal or paint wood frames to protect them from weather damage.

• Ensure the roof is clear of leaves and debris and inspect it for leaks or damage.

How Much Value Does a Screened Porch Add to Your Home's Value?

Adding a screened porch to your home can significantly enhance its value, both in terms of financial worth and livability. Here's a detailed look at how a screened porch can increase your home's value:

Financial Value

1. Return on Investment (ROI)

   • High ROI: Screened porches can offer a high return on investment. On average, homeowners can expect to recoup around 70-80% of the cost when they sell their home. This ROI can vary based on location, quality of construction, and current real estate market conditions.

   • Cost vs. Value: According to Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value report, adding a midrange screened porch can add substantial value. For example, if you invest $20,000 in building a screened porch, you could see an increase in your home’s resale value by approximately $14,000 to $16,000.

2. Enhanced Curb Appeal

   • First Impressions: A well-designed screened porch improves your home's curb appeal. Potential buyers often appreciate the added outdoor living space, making your home more attractive and competitive in the market when it comes time to see.

   • Buyer Attraction: Homes with screened porches often attract more interest from buyers looking for additional living spaces that blend indoor and outdoor living.

3. Increased Usable Space

   • More Living Space: A screened porch provides additional square footage for living space, which can be used for dining, relaxing, or entertaining. This added space can make your home feel larger and more versatile.

   • Functional Area: Potential buyers value the functional outdoor space that can be used year-round and protected from weather and insects.

Livability Value

1. Comfort and Convenience

   • All-Weather Use: Screened porches allow you to enjoy the outdoors regardless of the weather. This can be especially valuable in regions with significant seasonal changes.

   • Insect-Free Environment: Many homeowners and buyers appreciate the significant benefit of enjoying outdoor activities without the nuisance of insects.

2. Health and Wellness

   • Outdoor Enjoyment: Spending time outdoors has been linked to numerous health benefits, including reduced stress and improved mood. A screened porch encourages more outdoor time without exposure to harsh weather or insects.

   • Natural Light: Screened porches can provide ample natural light, positively affecting mental health and well-being.

Factors Influencing Value

1. Quality of Construction

   • Materials: Using high-quality materials like composite framing, cedar, or weather-sealed structural lumber can enhance the porch's durability and aesthetics, thereby adding more value.

   • Professional Installation: A professionally installed screened porch with attention to detail and craftsmanship can significantly boost the perceived value.

2. Local Real Estate Market

   • Market Trends: The value added by a screened porch can vary depending on the local real estate market. In some regions, outdoor living spaces are highly sought after and can command a premium price.

   • Comparable Homes: The presence of screened porches in comparable homes in your neighborhood can influence the added value. If screened porches are common and desired, your home’s value may increase significantly.

Types of Screened-In Porch Systems

Several different screen porch enclosures are available today, each with its unique set of advantages and disadvantages.

Here are just a few of the options:

• Traditional Porch Enclosure – This type of enclosure usually has a fixed roof and a door at one end. It protects against rain and snow while allowing air circulation.

• Retractable Roof Porch Enclosure—These enclosures have retractable roofs that open up when needed. They protect against wind, rain, and heat gain during the summer months.

• Insulated Porch Enclosure – An insulated porch enclosure keeps both cold and hot temperatures. It also helps keep the interior warm during the winter months.

Materials for Porch Enclosures

There are three main types of porch enclosures available today. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages:

1. Vinyl
   Vinyl screens are made of plastic mesh with a wood frame and come in a wide selection of colors.

2. Fiberglass
   Fiberglass screens are made of glass fibers bonded together by resin. Fiberglass screens are durable and weather-resistant but have limited color varieties.

3. Steel
   Steel screens are durable but can oxidize over time. Steel screens are less expensive but are the least attractive of your options.

Contact your local screened porch expert to have your NO OBLIGATION Screened Porch Addition measurement TODAY!