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A screened-in porch can add not only versatility to your home, but very real, added value when the time comes to consider selling.
It certainly is not an easy consideration, but first on the list should be this: What do you hope to get out of the addition of and/or the screening in of an existing porch structure?
The Advantages of a Screened-in Porch
An existing porch is minimal maintenance for the most part, as well as a great head start to screening in because existing posts make it easier to plot out new walls, screens, and a roof. An obvious advantage of a screened-in porch is while you are sitting out enjoying the fresh air, you don't have to worry about bugs and debris. It's never fun sharing your outdoor space with bees and mosquitos. Also, a screened-in porch limits the amount of grass and other yard items being tracked into your home.
Don’t forget the considerations of protections from weather. Certain climates - like Northeast Ohio's - can have blistering heat or blustery and bitter wintry conditions (and again, in Northeast Ohio, we might experience all of those conditions in one day). So blinds, shades and even shutters can be additional considerations to offset your area’s climate conditions.
Screened-in Porch Design and Usage Ideas
Turning Your Screened-in Porch Into a Pet Paradise
A screened-in porch can be a great new space for your pets to enjoy. Imagine the family cat enjoying not only the fresh air but the freedom to move around the room, taking in the sights and sounds of nature they are now surrounded by. Let's not forget about dogs as well; they'll love the new napping space and easier opportunities to bark their hellos to neighbors. Even pet birds would appreciate the sights and sounds that a screened-in porch provides.
What Type of Screen Will You Install?
Remember, pet claws can be sharp, so do keep an eye on your pets to keep them from scratching at those newly installed screens. There are a variety of durable options available that may limit their opportunity to ruin your new space. The better the screen, the easier the upkeep. They can filter light, provide some protections for plants and, with a simple cleaning schedule, last for many years.
Mesh size itself is a big consideration. Mesh size is defined as the number of openings per square inch of screen. The higher the number per square inch, the smaller the hole opening. How about mesh material itself? Copper, aluminum, brass, stainless steel, and bronze are among your choices for durability, ease of upkeep, and longevity.
Design and Usage Ideas for the New Space Your Screened-in Porch Creates
How about using it as a workout space? It could function as a great new space for spin routines, weights, the treadmill, or a rowing machine, all with the additional benefits of fresh air instead of what can become a stale workout room air in an enclosed indoor room. Not even rain can prevent you from enjoying the space for staying in shape.
Snow might be a different story. Or, better yet, just think about simply enjoying a cup of coffee on your porch on a crisp fall morning as a way of starting your day or weekend.
Tired of tripping over the kids' toys all over the house? What if this room becomes their primary area for everyday playtime as well as playdates with their friends?
How about turning it into a craft or hobby room? It would be great for relaxing puzzle-building.
Perhaps the screened-in porch can become an extension of your home office, or even a library for all the books you will eventually make time for.
My personal out-of-the-box idea for a screened porch would be to turn it into a vintage arcade game room complete with a wet bar.
Ceiling fans, portable heating, accent lighting, speakers/sound considerations, a TV... all of these accents and design elements of your screened-in porch will require careful consideration, no matter how you eventually utilize the space.
Before all of this comes into play, you will also want to know how altering or adding a structure will change your yard's landscape. Will it affect the way you are currently able to enjoy the nature that surrounds your yard? And don’t forget - the design of your screened-in porch must complement your existing home structure as well.
Whatever you are considering, the design possibilities for a new screened porch are endless. But one thing is certain - it is always advisable to consult professionals before proceeding with the screening of an existing porch or building a new structure.
Why You Should Find the Right Contractor for Your Screened-in Porch
For starters, a reliable and knowledgeable screened-in porch contractor will know what building materials will be best for your area’s climate conditions. The last thing you want to do is cut corners upfront when building the structure; that could become a very costly rebuild if structural elements do not hold up over time or through the changes in the seasons. Most people don’t realize that many builders partner and/or network with design professionals who provide the best possible expertise or suggestions on how to maximize the structure they have created for your family.
Bottom line, in most cases, this is not a project an untrained eye should take on without the help and guidance of professionals who are able to get you to the enjoyment of your new space much quicker than you will ever be able to do yourself.
We hope these helpful hints and ideas have given you a head start toward this exciting new addition to your home!
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