Screened porches and decks offer a great way to add more living space to your home while allowing you to enjoy the outdoors. However, there are downsides to spending time in the backyard, such as enduring bugs and bad weather. By converting your deck or patio into a screened in porch, you can enjoy your outdoor screen enclosure while protecting from these annoyances. Before you start planning your project, however, you’ll need to think about a few important considerations, including the current stability of your existing structure.
Steps to Convert a Patio Deck into a Screened In Porch
Establishing a Budget for Your Screened in Porch
Converting an existing deck or porch into an outdoor screen enclosure requires good planning, starting with your budget. Before you can start to juggle numbers, however, you need to think about what you want in your screened patio, beginning with the size. If you want to host large gatherings in your new space, you may need to include a patio extension. If you want to save a little money, consider screening in only a portion of your existing patio; this gives you a great place to put other outdoor features, such as a grill.
Preparations Before Beginning the Project
When you’ve worked out your budget, you can start your search for the right contractor for the job; deck enclosures are not projects fit for the average DIY homeowner. Your patio contractor can help guide you through a few important considerations.
- Be sure your deck or porch is in good shape before work begins; fixing up the flooring after installing the screens is not as easy.
- Determine whether your existing structure can support a roof. If your deck isn’t strong enough, you may need to add more support underneath.
- Decide on a roofing style.
Add Special Features
While working with your contractor, you can also talk about special features that you might like to add to your enclosed porch, such as electrical outlets, skylights, ceiling fans and climate control. By running electricity to your new screen patio enclosure, you can enjoy reading by lamplight at night or even have a television for entertainment. Increasing the creature comforts of your screened patio can help you get even more use out of the space.
Ensuring the Screened in Porch is Up to Code
Converting your deck or patio into a screened in porch will likely require permits from your local municipality. If you plan to add some extra features, such as electrical outlets, you’ll need to ensure that the project is done correctly. Working with a contractor or electrician can ensure that these tasks are done correctly the first time.
Converting an existing porch or deck into a screened patio can add more value to your home and give you and your family another place to relax. Dulando Screen and Awning can help transform your existing porch or deck into a completely new space. Contact us today at 407-862-6060 to receive a free estimate for your project.
