A screen porch can be one of the most attractive features of a home, with 51 percent of real estate agents saying this addition could be deemed as a top home upgrade. If you are considering adding a screen porch to your home, you may want to consider a few questions in advance.
How will the area be used?
Consider how the screen porch will be used. Will you primarily be using the space for relaxing on your own, reading a good book, or spending time with your family? Perhaps you intend to do a lot of entertaining in your new screened living space. How you will eventually use your screened porch should be considered to determine things like:
- The floor space you need
- Features you want to integrate
- Entry or access point configuration
What type of lighting do you like?
The type of lighting you choose for your screen porch can set the stage for the ambiance of the space. Screen porches don’t necessarily have to have lights, but illumination keeps the area perfectly functional well after the sun goes down. You may want to think about:
- Recessed lighting with adjustable illumination on the ceiling
- A lit ceiling fan to provide light and air circulation
- Wall lights that add a bit of decorative flair to the area
Do you want skylights?
You will have a lot of natural light streaming through the screen panels, but you may also prefer more overhead lighting as well. The traditional screened porch has a full roof for weather protection, but you could implement skylights for an added touch of sunlight. Keep in mind, if you are building in an area where a lot of natural light will be blocked by surrounding trees and vegetation, skylights can yield that open and airy look in spite of the dense foliage.
Do you prefer full screens or windows?
When creating a screen porch, you have two primary options: either go with full screen panels only or go with more window-style screens that allow you to close off the area from the elements. The choice can make all the difference in how the space can be used. For example, if you go with full screens only, you will have an exterior living space that is always going to vary depending on the weather. With window-style panels, you can close the windows and still enjoy the natural light regardless of the exterior temperature.
What about build-ins?
With a screen porch, unlike a deck or regular patio, you have the option of creating some pretty functional build-ins that will be aptly protected from the elements. A few options to consider include:
- A stationary seating area, such as seating benches
- A work surface, bar, or countertop
- Storage cabinetry or shelving
Build-ins can be integrated when the screen porch is built and give you totally new layers of functionality for the space, so these should be considered in advance.
Ready to Get Started on a Screen Porch for Your Home?
A screen porch can bring so much value to your outdoor living space and property, both in terms of functionality and sheer enjoyment. If you would like to get started planning a screen porch addition for your property, reach out to us at Diamond Hill Builders.
