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Build a Screened PorchFor Better Outdoor LivingYou can build a screened porch on an existing porch, deck, or patio. You can even make it free-standing. Many people are screening in part of their porch or deck to give them more options for outdoor living. (We can also show you how to build a porch!)Building a screened in porch can be a relatively easy and often times an inexpensive project depending on the style and features you'd like to have. Or, if you prefer a little outdoor luxury, a custom-designed screen porch may be your answer! Either way, a screen porch adds immediate value to your home and as some of you may already know, Mary and I bought a house once just because of its screened porch!  photo courtesy of Andrew Raimist
Andrew's screen porch roof (photo above) has numerous skylights. Walls are enclosed with fixed screens. He used composite fiberglass industrial flooring to allow for air circulation from below and to allow light to filter down to the ground.
photo courtesy of rdpaige
This great screened porch addition above was built in combination with the existing deck. The heightened ceiling gives ample visual space when entertaining or dining in comfort.
photo courtesy of The Porch Company
The custom designed and built screened porch above is complete with fireplace, flat-screen TV, and surround sound. Be sure to see our custom design screen porch photo gallery Screen Porch Building OptionsWe not only provide your options below for building a screened porch but also show you how to do it and some of the products available to make it easier! Choose the option that best fits your specific needs.
OPTION 1 - Screen in your existing porch: Make your own screen
panels or use products like Screen Tight™ or ScreenEze™ to fit between your porch columns to screen in some or all of your existing porch.
This can be an easy do-it-yourself project if you've had experience with framing and other general construction projects. Or, if you need help with some or all of the project, it shouldn't cost a lot as you have the major structural components already in place. Our step-by-step informational guide outlines the process! 
OPTION 2 - Use a screen "walls only" porch kit to enclose your existing porch or patio.
Since you already have the roof in place this is a quick and easy way to build a screened porch with almost instant screen porch space. 
OPTION 3 - Build it on your existing deck or patio.
All you need are columns and a roof and then framing to accommodate your screens.
Just make sure your deck or patio is (1) in good repair and (2) is substantial enough to support a roof with snow if that is applicable to your area. In addition, you will may need excellent roof construction experience depending on the type of roof you will require; otherwise, see Option 6- Hire a Contractor below. We'll walk you through the steps! 
OPTION 4 - Erect a screen porch kit on your deck or patio: Kits come with everything you need to erect a screen porch on your existing deck or patio.
We used one of these on a previous home and enjoyed it for years! Many are built to stay up year round and have either durable vinyl or aluminum roofing. See our screen porch kit photos for ideas to use on your deck or patio. 
OPTION 5 - New construction from the ground up. If you aren't an experienced remodeler then we recommend you see Option 6 - Hire a Contractor below.
Otherwise, given you have some very good framing, foundation, and roof construction experience, it's time to break out the power tools! Start with your own design or use a screen porch plan that you can use as is or modify to suit your needs. We have a excellent variety of screened in porch plans from which you can choose! Start with our How To Build A Porch section which outlines each facet of construction, from the foundation to the roof. Once your porch is built, we show you how to screen it in! 
OPTION 6 - Hire a contractor to do any of the above.
Often times, and for many reasons, it just makes good sense to hire a professional contractor to build a screened porch.
We recommend you find a reputable contractor who specializes in screen porch design and construction if you want a custom-designed structure. Many dealers of screen porch kits will have access to individuals who can install kits professionally on your deck or patio. See our interviews about hiring a contractor and contractor estimates with Nancy Moore, owner of The Porch Company in Nashville Tennessee, who shares her own "insider" advice. "Before You Build A Screened Porch" GuidesBefore you build a screened porch, use the following screen porch planning guides to give you excellent information prior to digging that first hole!Screened In Porch Ideas: The Purpose. Before you build a screened porch take a few moments to determine exactly how your screened porch will be used. This will determine many other factors (like size) and may alleviate any regrets later. Screen Porch Designs: The Location. Often times the specific location is dictated by your existing structures; however, it's always a good idea to consider weather, the sun's primary direction at various times of the day, and perhaps some visual aspects as well. Use your screen porch's design to make the best of your situation. Screen Porch Design: The Architecture. Architecture matters, especially for custom designed screen porches. Ensure your new screen porch is not only aesthetically pleasing but also complements your home's architecture as well.
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See Charles' build a screened porch project!
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