Decorating a screened in porch requires a few DIY skills. However, if you have no idea where or how to start, we got your back. In this article, we shall discuss screened-in porch ideas.
It will give you some options to choose from or you can customize to match your taste.
Any home will appreciate a screened-in porch as they are great assets. They are a great place to relax without the fear of being disturbed by insects while also getting some cool air during the summer.
There are endless ways to decorate a porch, with different styles on the floor, ceiling, rugs, seats, and pillows. You can even get an idea and improve it by customizing a few things to make it feel more like your space.
Screened-In Porch Construction Tips
1. Plan A Project
It would be better if you had a plan to get your chosen screened porch. The project involves installing framing around the screened porch and attaching the mesh to the frame.
Image: Pinterest
You will need to measure the porch, height by width, and add ten percent to know how much materials you need. Next is to put up the enclosure using basic tools.
2. Use the Right Wood
If you plan to frame your porch from scratch, you can use rugged redwood, alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ lumber), or cedar. These are some great options as they resist insects and also weather-related damage.
Image: The porch company
Select the right screws ACQ compatible for treated lumber to ensure you do not damage your wood.
3. Select Your Screen Type
The market is full of mesh types. These different types of mesh are suited for different environments.
Image: Today's Homeowner
So, depending on your environment and how you want your screen on the porch to look, you can select one material for the job.
Some of the mesh types include the following;
i) Synthetic solar screen
Choose a synthetic solar screen if you plan to put up some high-end furniture that you do not want weather elements to damage. This material limits the amount of sunlight entering your porch. In addition, the process ensures that the heat getting in is minimized.
ii). Vinyl-Coated Polyester
This is for pet owners. You need vinyl-coated polyester if you have furry friends who want a nice-looking screened-in porch. It can withstand those scratches caused by pets. However, because the material is thicker, it may obscure your view.
iii) Fiberglass
Fiberglass is one easy material to work with. It is soft and also resistant to rust and corrosion. Fiberglass is typically found in kits.
If you enjoy viewing your surrounding environment, you can use extra fine fiberglass instead. This is because it enhances visibility, hence making everything look clearer.
iv). Metal
Metal is also a great option to use as it is sturdy. However, it can easily rust and corrode in humid climates. So, if you reside in a humid climatic region, it is more advisable to use aluminum as it performs best.
4. Decide on the Type of Flooring
This is an outdoor space that will likely get excessive foot traffic. So, it needs to have a tough flooring design. Here are a few types of flooring to consider.
You can go for soft pine, one of the most popular natural wood for porches. However, cedar and redwood are more likely to last longer.
Other options like the low-maintenance composite decking will provide your screened porch with the good looks of wood. In addition, it does not crack or splinter nor require re-staining.
Also, if you use hardwood, you will need the best furniture pads to protect your flooring. You wouldn't want to ruin that.
Hardwearing materials like stones, bricks, and certain tile types are also good options. However, they are susceptible to chips.
If you know kids will be romping on your porch, you'll need something more slip resistant like the rubber used in playgrounds.
5. Decide on the Type of Ceiling
Once you figure out the type of floor you'll be using, decide on the type of ceiling. This can range from a vaulted or angled ceiling to a straight ceiling.
Image: houzz
A vaulted ceiling will add visual appeal, while for a straight one, you may need to add a skylight for illumination by day and to stargaze at night. This will also make things more a little interesting.
Image: Fenceanddeckconnection
Screened-In Porch Ideas
Now that you have seen the guide on constructing your screened porch from scratch, we have some examples that you can try out.
1. Attractive Lighting
There's quite a number of outdoor deck lighting ideas you can use on your porch. Lighting the porch will create ambiance and give you a feeling and warmth of home.
Image: DIYS
You can choose pendant lighting, sconce, or outdoor floor lamps to add elegance and style. The porch will look attractive and inviting so you can enjoy and love your space.
2. Add Creature Comforts
You can also add comfy pillows and cushions to add a pop of color and ensure you get absolute comfort while chilling. Choose colors that match your personality and make the screen porch more lively.
Image: BHG
Ensure you add throw blankets for evenings and other chilly moments.
3. Outdoor Furniture
One of the most critical things to add to the screened porch is an outdoor sofa and other pieces of furniture. A good and comfy sofa will make you enjoy spending time on your porch.
Image: HGTV
You can arrange the furniture to face a focal point like the fireplace. Arrange the furniture just like your living room or be more creative and make the place more interesting.
You can also add an ottoman or any other footrest. This will ensure that you have all you need to enhance your comfort.
Also, don't be shy to set up a coffee table to make your screened-in porch more glamorous. A few of the best outdoor rocking chairs will also do wonders to your space.
4. Add Artwork
You can never go wrong with art pieces in the living room, bathroom, kitchen, or even your screen porch. Art always fits into place.
Image: Pottery Barn
Adding art creates a great transition between the outdoor living space and the indoor spaces. For example, you can add the art to match your floor rug, throw blankets, or throw pillows.
5. Add Curtains
Adding curtains is one of the screened-in porch ideas that you can use. Curtains and blinds add elegance, depending on the design of your space.
Image: HGTV
The best curtains are the sheer ones, allowing light to get in even when closed. However, you can still use any curtains that you find attractive.
6. Add Plants
Adding plants to any room makes the place look alive. You can go for live plants or fake ones.
Image: Southern Living
Whichever the case, the plants will still make your place look amazing. You can use both large and small plants to make it more interesting. You will also enjoy the health benefits of such plants.
7. Use an Outdoor Rug
Rugs make floors look appealing and keep them warm. However, you could be worried about it getting dirty or ruined.
Image: Pinterest
Indoor/outdoor rugs are the best solution when planning to add a rug to your outdoor space. Such rugs are easy to maintain as you can hose them down when they get dirty.
8. Set a Focal Point
A fireplace serves as the perfect focal point in any setting. With a fireplace on your screened-in porch, you will enjoy its warmth on chilly days and evenings.
Image: JimenezPhoto
Natural stone is ideal for outdoor spaces
as it imparts a modern, rustic or traditional vibe to suit your preference and taste.
9. Set Up a Porch Swing
Who doesn't like a swing? A porch swing will make your afternoon more interesting if you feel playful yet lazy. You can indulge in both moods without straining yourself.
Image: The porch company
Buy a two-seater to share with a loved one or individual swing chairs for fun and vibing moments.
Frequently Asked Questions on Screened-in Porch Ideas
1. How much do you need to create a screened-in porch?
If you are in the US and want to create a screed in porch, you will need about $3-$5 per square foot for the required materials and at least $2 per square foot for labor. This is only applicable if you are screening an already existing porch.
2. Is a screened-in porch worth the money?
As a homeowner, a screened-in porch is a great investment for your home. Screened-in porches are great in places where rainy weather, bugs, and privacy are great concerns.
Though it is expensive, a porch is worth every penny.
3. How can I winterize my screened-in porch?
Screened-in porches are all fun during summer and other seasons. However, during the winter seasons, it can be different. But you can change this by winterizing your porch. You can do this by;
a) Using Heavy Duty Vinyl Curtains
Adding heavy-duty clear vinyl curtains creates a porch design that you can still use during winter. The aesthetics may not suit everyone's taste, but it is affordable. The curtains protect the place but allow enough light to penetrate. Then, you can open them for fresh air when the temperatures get warmer.
b) Vinyl Sheeting
The use of clear vinyl sheets, which cover the screens, is an even better method of winterizing your porch. Each screen must be measured, and the sheets cut using a razor knife.
To prevent damaging your porch, you can alternatively attach them to the wall using Velcro tape. Sheeting keeps out cold air, pollen, wind, and other undesirables by sealing the structure. But if you don't use sturdy, thick sheets, the wind and other objects might tear them.
c) Install Acrylic or Vinyl Panels
Installing acrylic or vinyl screens is the most efficient DIY solution, but it also takes the longest. The most aesthetically pleasing choice is panels, which convert your porch into a three-season room.
The panels have been reusable for many years and almost entirely shield your patio and porch from the winter weather.
Image: angi
