Are you looking to create an outdoor living space that is protected from the elements? A covered back porch may be the perfect solution for you.
Whether you are wanting to expand your living space or add a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy nature, a screened porch can provide you with many benefits.
In this article, we’ll explore what a screened porch is, the benefits it can offer, the typical features, different types, design ideas, cost considerations, and building regulations.
Read on to learn more and find out if a screened porch is the right choice for you.
Table of Contents
Short Answer
A covered back porch is often referred to as a screened-in porch, a screened porch, or a sunroom.
It is typically an outdoor living space that has been covered with screens or windows to create an area that is comfortable to spend time in, while still being exposed to the outdoors.
It is usually attached to the back of a house, and it can provide a great space for entertaining, relaxing, or just enjoying the outdoors.
What Is A Covered Back Porch?
A covered back porch is a type of outdoor living space that is typically attached to the back of a home.
It is designed to provide a sheltered area where you can enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about the elements.
The porch is usually covered with a roof and features large windows or screens which provide protection from insects and the elements while still allowing for a view of the great outdoors.
Screened porches are an ideal way to extend your living space and add value to your home.
Not only do they provide a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, but they can also be a great place to entertain guests or just spend some quality time with family.
Additionally, screened porches can help keep pests out and reduce the amount of dirt and debris that gets tracked into your home.
This can help keep your home cleaner and reduce the amount of time you need to spend cleaning.
Overall, a covered back porch can be a great addition to any home.
They provide a great way to enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about the elements, and can also be a great place to entertain guests or just spend some quality time with family.
Benefits Of A Screened Porch
A screened porch can provide a range of benefits for homeowners.
For starters, it provides a great way to enjoy the outdoors without the worry of bugs, rain, or other elements.
The large windows or screens allow for a view of the outdoors while still providing the necessary protection from insects.
Additionally, a screened porch can be an excellent place to entertain family and friends, as it can provide a comfortable and sheltered space for gatherings.
Aside from providing a great space for entertaining, a screened porch can also provide a private getaway.
With the screens providing protection from unwanted visitors, the porch can be used as a private retreat to relax, read, and even nap.
The screened porch can also be a great spot for added storage.
It can provide a safe, dry, and out-of-sight space to store items like outdoor furniture, grill accessories, and other items that need to be kept out of the elements.
Finally, a screened porch can also be an excellent option for those who are looking to add value to their home.
With the added square footage, a screened porch can increase the value of a home, making it a great investment for any homeowner.
Typical Features Of A Screened Porch
When it comes to screened porches, there are certain features you can expect to find.
Most screened porches will offer some type of protection from the elements, such as wind, rain, and insects.
This protection can come in the form of large windows or screens that can be opened and closed depending on the desired level of protection.
The windows or screens may be retractable or stationary, depending on the design of the porch.
Additionally, some screened porches may have features such as ceiling fans, outdoor lighting, and outdoor furniture.
This can provide a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for enjoying the outdoors.
Another common feature of screened porches is a roof.
This roof can be made of a variety of materials, such as shingles, metal, or plastic.
The roof is important for providing protection from the sun and rain, and for creating a pleasant outdoor ambiance.
Finally, screened porches may also include a deck, which is a great way to extend the living space outdoors.
Decks can be made from a variety of materials, such as wood, composite, or concrete, and can be stained or painted for an added touch of style.
Different Types Of Screened Porches
Screened porches come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can choose one that best meets your needs.
Depending on your budget and space, you can opt for a basic screened porch with a simple roof, or a more elaborate porch with a wraparound porch, a gazebo, or a pergola.
If you are looking for a more luxurious option, you can even install a screened porch with a fireplace!
Another option is to choose a screened porch with a built-in outdoor kitchen, which is perfect for entertaining guests and family.
You can also choose to add a hot tub, fire pit, or outdoor TV to your screened porch for added comfort and convenience.
Some screened porches have windows that are retractable, so you can open them when the weather permits and close them when it is too hot or too cold.
This feature is especially great for homeowners who want to enjoy the outdoors year-round.
Finally, you can customize your screened porch with furniture, plants, and other decorations to make it your own.
Whether you are looking for a place to relax or a place to entertain, a screened porch can be the perfect addition to your outdoor living space.
Design Ideas For A Screened Porch
Whether youre looking to install a new screened porch or spruce up an existing one, there are plenty of design ideas to choose from to make your outdoor space even more inviting. Consider adding some of these ideas to your screened porch:
– Add a comfortable seating area: Nothing says relaxation like a comfortable seating area in your screened porch. Choose furniture that is both stylish and comfortable, like deep cushioned chairs and sofas. Add some outdoor pillows and rugs to make your seating area even more inviting.
– Install some overhead lighting: Adding some overhead lighting to your screened porch will make it much more enjoyable to hang out in after dark. Consider hanging string lights or lanterns from the ceiling for a warm and cozy atmosphere.
– Add some artwork: Adding artwork to your screened porch will give it personality and make it feel like an extension of your home. Choose artwork that complements your overall design style. If youre feeling particularly creative, paint some of your own artwork and hang it up in your screened porch.
– Hang some curtains: Curtains are a great way to add privacy and texture to your screened porch. They can also be a great way to control the amount of light coming in. Choose a curtain that fits with the overall style of your screened porch.
– Install a ceiling fan: Installing a ceiling fan in your screened porch will help keep the air circulating and make it more comfortable to hang out in. Choose a fan with a light for additional illumination.
– Add some outdoor plants: Adding some outdoor plants to your screened porch will give it a sense of life and bring a bit of the outdoors in. Choose plants that can withstand the elements and dont require a lot of maintenance.
These are just a few ideas that you can use to make your screened porch even more inviting.
With a little creativity, you can transform your screened porch into an outdoor oasis that youll never want to leave.
Cost Considerations For Screened Porches
When it comes to building a screened porch, there are several cost considerations to keep in mind.
The cost of the project will depend on the size of the porch, the type of materials used, and any additional features or upgrades that are desired.
The size of the porch will be a major factor in the cost.
Smaller porches will cost less than larger porches, as they require fewer materials and labor.
The type of materials used to build the porch will also have an impact on the cost.
Wood, aluminum, and composite materials are all popular options, with wood typically being the most affordable.
Using more expensive materials like stone or brick will increase the cost.
Additional features or upgrades may also add to the cost of the project.
Adding a roof, ceiling fan, or outdoor lighting can all increase the cost.
Some homeowners also choose to install a patio or deck as part of their screened porch project.
This can add considerable cost to the project, depending on the size and type of materials used.
For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are some DIY screened porch kits available on the market.
These kits come with the necessary materials and instructions to build a screened porch.
While these kits are popular and can help keep costs down, it is important to note that they are not as customizable as building a screened porch from scratch.
Overall, the cost of a screened porch can vary widely depending on the size and features desired.
Knowing the cost considerations ahead of time can help you plan accordingly and create the perfect screened porch for your home.
Building Regulations For Screened Porches
When it comes to building a screened porch, there are a few regulations that need to be taken into consideration.
First, the porch must be built with materials that are designed to stand up to the elements, such as pressure-treated lumber, galvanized steel, or vinyl.
In addition, all visible edges must be sealed with caulk to prevent water from seeping into the structure.
The area should also be equipped with proper drainage to ensure that water doesnt pool or accumulate on the porch.
When it comes to the construction of the porch itself, there are several options available.
If you are handy with tools, you may be able to build the screened porch yourself.
However, if you dont have the expertise or confidence to take on the project, you may want to hire a professional.
When hiring a professional, make sure to get references and make sure the contractor is properly licensed and insured.
Once the construction of the screened porch is complete, you will need to make sure that the structure is up to code.
This includes making sure that the porch meets all local building codes, such as those related to the size of the porch, the amount of ventilation, and the type of materials used.
You should also take into account the local climate to ensure that the porch is built to withstand the weather conditions in your area.
Finally, you will need to make sure that the screened porch is properly maintained.
This includes regularly inspecting the porch for any signs of damage, such as rot, mold, or insect infestations.
You should also clean the porch regularly to get rid of any debris or dirt that may accumulate.
Taking care of your screened porch will ensure that it will last for many years.
Final Thoughts
A screened porch is a great way to enjoy the outdoors from the comfort of your home.
With features like large windows and screens, you can relax in peace while still enjoying the view of the outdoors.
There are many different types of screened porches to choose from, all with their own unique designs and cost considerations.
Before building a screened porch, make sure to check with local building regulations to ensure that your project is up to code.
With a bit of planning and research, you can create the perfect screened porch to fit your needs and budget.