Do you long for a space that embraces the natural beauty found in your backyard without losing touch with all the comforts of home? You have several options. Here in Florida, two popular possibilities are a patio sunroom and a screen enclosure. How do you choose between them? Here are a few areas to consider:
Differences between a Patio Sunroom and a Screen Enclosure
There are many similarities between a patio sunroom and a screen enclosure. After all, both structures offer extra living space to your home. Additionally, they both allow access to the world outside while also providing some protection from the elements and other annoyances lurking in the great outdoors like insects, pollen and windblown debris.
Here are a few questions to ask yourself:
- Are you interested in transforming an existing aluminum porch or patio into a more comfortable living space?
- Is the existing patio under your roofline or would you need to start from the ground up?
You can use either approach for both sunrooms and screen enclosures.
What sets a sunroom apart from a screen enclosure?
The most significant difference is the walls. Sunrooms generally use windows to enclose the space. When left closed, they provide additional insulation and protection. However, they can also be opened to let fresh air in when desired. With screen enclosures, screens form the walls. On the flip side, the walls of a patio enclosure are made of screen. Living in central Florida, the weather allows us to enjoy the outdoors year-round. However, there are those few months in the summer that are unbearable as well as those few possible days when it gets downright chilly. Ultimately, the decision is up to you.
The Benefits of Building a Patio Sunroom
Sometimes called Florida rooms, sunrooms are an easy and affordable way to add usable living space to your home. They can also increase its value and its curb appeal. Thanks to the liberal use of windows, you’ll enjoy lots of light and a clear view of the attractive green spaces outside your home.
With a sunroom, you’ll also have considerable control over your environment. Your enjoyment of a screened porch is often at the mercy of the weather. Sunrooms have walls and windows, so they become an extension of your home. If it’s a beautiful, temperate day, then you can open the windows to let in the breeze. What if rain or allergens are making it miserable to be outside? Keeping your sunroom closed up will prevent these unpleasantries from creeping inside. When temperatures outside are outside of your comfort zone, you can opt to heat or cool the space. These factors make it possible for you to get more use, and more enjoyment, out of your sunroom.
The Advantages of Adding a Screen Enclosure
Why do some people decide to add a screen enclosure? While these structures don’t offer the same level of protection and control as a sunroom, they still provide a space where you can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors without worrying about sunburn, biting insects or other common annoyances.
Screen enclosures are also generally less expensive to build than sunrooms.
We hope you’ve picked up a few tips on deciding between a patio sunroom and a screen enclosure. When it’s all said and done, the decision is up to you.
If you’re looking for a patio contractor, turn to the professionals at Dulando Screen & Awning. Serving our fellow Floridians since 1968, we bring 50 years of experience to the table, and we’re happy to guide you through the process of adding a patio sunroom or screen enclosure to your home. Contact us today at 407-862-6060 to request a free in-home design consultation.
