Screened-in porches are a popular addition to many homes because they offer the best of both worlds: the comfort of being inside with the enjoyable feeling of being outside.
These enclosed spaces protect you from bugs, sun, and even a little rain, effectively expanding your living space and letting you enjoy the outdoors without the drawbacks.
A screened-in porch is a versatile space to relax, eat meals, or entertain guests. It can also increase the value of your home and make it more appealing.
If you’re ready to add a screened-in porch to your home, you’ll need to find a contractor who can help. This article will help you find professionals who build screened in porches near you, understand the costs involved, explore different design options, and highlight the many benefits of adding this valuable space to your home.
What is a screened-in porch?
A screened-in porch is an outdoor room enclosed with screens that keep out insects and falling leaves while letting the air flow freely. These structures can be attached to your house or built as standalone structures.
Screened porches are usually built with pressure-treated wood, vinyl, fiberglass mesh, aluminum screens, or vinyl-coated glass.
Screened porch vs. solarium/sunroom
Solariums are designed to provide complete climate control, with glass walls and roofs. Screened porches, on the other hand, use natural ventilation to keep the space comfortable.
Screened porches tend to be more affordable and easier to maintain than solariums.
Related terms
You may also hear terms like lanai, veranda, and patio enclosure. These are all similar to a screened-in porch, though the exact meaning can vary depending on where you live. For example, in Hawaii, a lanai often refers to a roofed, open-sided veranda, while in other regions, it might simply mean a patio.
Why get a screened-in porch?
Screened-in porches are a popular addition to many homes. Why? Because they offer a ton of benefits:
- Protection from the elements and pests: A screened-in porch lets you enjoy the outdoors without the sun, rain, wind, or bugs.
- Enhanced outdoor living space: They create a comfortable place to eat, relax, and have friends over. It’s like adding another room to your house!
- Increased home value and curb appeal: A nice screened-in porch can be a great investment. It makes your house look better and can increase its value.
- Versatile functionality: You can use a screened-in porch for almost anything – a place to play, a place to work, or just a place to hang out.
- Enjoying sunsets and views: Screens let you see the world around you without letting the bugs in. It’s the best of both worlds.
If you’re looking to improve your home and enjoy the outdoors more, a screened-in porch might be the perfect solution.
Finding Screened-In Porch Professionals “Near Me”
Ready to find a pro to build your dream screened-in porch? Here’s how to locate qualified professionals in your area:
Online Search Strategies
Start with a targeted online search. Try keywords like:
- “Screened-in porch installers near me”
- “Porch screening companies [your city name]”
- “Screened patio contractors”
Don’t forget online directories and review sites like Yelp, HomeAdvisor, and Angie’s List. Search for screened-in porch services and take some time to read customer reviews.
Local Resources
Swing by your local home improvement store. Many stores offer installation services themselves or can recommend trusted contractors in the area.
And don’t underestimate the power of word-of-mouth! Ask friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations. Personal referrals can be incredibly valuable.
Verifying Credentials and Experience
Once you have a few potential contractors in mind, do your homework. Check for the right licenses and insurance to make sure they’re operating legally and responsibly.
Also, ask to see portfolios of their previous work and read customer testimonials to get a sense of their quality and customer satisfaction.
Screened-In Porch Design and Material Options
Screened-in porches are a great way to expand your living space and enjoy the outdoors without being bothered by insects. But before you start calling contractors, there are a few design and material options to consider.
Design Considerations
First, think about how big you want the porch to be and how you plan to use it. Do you want a cozy little nook for reading, or a large space for entertaining? How will people move around within the space?
Next, consider the style and aesthetics. The porch should complement your home’s existing architecture and reflect the overall look and feel you want to achieve. Do you want it to blend seamlessly with your house, or stand out as a unique feature?
Finally, think about how the porch will connect to your house or deck. Will it be easily accessible from inside? Will it have its own entrance?
Material Choices
Framing materials typically include wood, aluminum, and vinyl. Wood is classic and can be painted or stained, but requires more maintenance. Aluminum is durable and low-maintenance, but can be more expensive. Vinyl is also low-maintenance and cost-effective, but may not be as aesthetically pleasing to some.
Screening materials include fiberglass, aluminum, and pet-resistant screens. Fiberglass is affordable and provides good visibility, but isn’t as strong as aluminum. Aluminum is stronger and offers better insect protection, but can be more expensive. Pet-resistant screens are designed to withstand wear and tear from pets.
Roofing options include shingles, metal, and polycarbonate. Shingles match most homes but require periodic replacement. Metal is durable and long-lasting, but can be noisy. Polycarbonate is lightweight and allows natural light, but may not be as aesthetically appealing.
Customization and Upgrades
Don’t forget to add features like ceiling fans, lighting, and outlets to make your porch more comfortable and functional. You can also incorporate built-in seating, storage, and entertainment systems to create a truly custom space.
How much does a screened-in porch cost?
As you’re budgeting for your screened-in porch, it’s important to remember that a few different factors will affect the overall cost of the project:
- The size and complexity of the porch
- The materials you choose
- Labor costs in your area
- The cost of permits and inspections
With those factors in mind, here’s a general idea of what you can expect to pay:
- Screening an existing porch: $2,000 to $2,800
- Building a new screened porch: $8,000 to $22,000
To get a better handle on what your project will cost, it’s a good idea to get quotes from at least three different contractors. As you’re comparing those quotes, make sure you understand exactly what’s included in each one.
If you need help paying for your screened-in porch, you may want to consider options like home equity loans, personal loans, or financing through the contractor.
Summary
A screened-in porch gives you the best of both worlds: an outdoor living space protected from sun, rain, and pests. It’s a comfortable, flexible addition to your home that can add real value and years of enjoyment.
If you’re thinking about building a screened-in porch, start by researching local contractors and planning the kind of space that will work best for you and your family. Look at examples of screened-in porches online and in your neighborhood. Consider how you want to use the space and what features are most important to you.
Imagine yourself relaxing on your new screened-in porch with a cool drink on a warm afternoon, or hosting friends for a barbecue on a summer evening. Picture the kids playing safely in a bug-free zone, or curling up with a good book while the rain patters on the roof.
A well-designed and properly built screened-in porch can become your favorite “room” in the house, a place where you can connect with nature, spend time with loved ones, and create lasting memories.