Convert Screen Porch to Four Season Room

by Corey
(Destin, FL)

QUESTION about Converting a Screen Porch to a Four Season Room: I have a small Florida room attached to my house via a pair of double doors, and was looking for ideas to seal off the screens so I can leave the double doors open.

I would like to be able to share the heat with the room during the winter and the a/c during the summer, but be able to open it back up in the spring.

I would like to stay away from installing windows or insulation etc. I was wondering if you guys have any suggestions on how to block at least 75% of the elements? thanks!

ANSWER: Corey, thanks for contacting us and visiting our website.

Probably one of the simplest and least expensive options to convert your screen porch (Florida room) is to build frames covered with clear plastic sheeting (heavy ply) to fit between your existing screen frames. This will prevent the majority of the elements, allow light penetration, maintain visibility, hold heat and a/c, and satisfy the requirement for easy removal in the spring.

I used storm windows on our screen porch once. They worked well but I usually ended up breaking one or two of the windows each season no matter how careful I was. Storage of the windows was also an issue. We stored them below our screened porch but they were exposed to weather, dirt, etc. Not very ideal, admittedly.

I really don't know of any other material, i.e., curtains / drapes, outside of installing screen porch windows. They are designed specifically for your situation and are custom made to fit almost any openings.

Perhaps our readers can provide information on other options they have used to convert their screen porch to a quasi four season porch.

We'd enjoy hearing back from you on how you decide to extend the use of your Florida room.

Regards,
Dave

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