How Much Does a Screened-In Porch Cost?

Highlights

• A screened-in porch typically costs between $2,000 and $2,800 to install, with homeowners across the country paying an average of $2,400.
• The main factors that affect screened-in porch cost include the porch size, the frame and screen material, the type of floor and roof chosen, and the complexity of the project.
• Screened-in porches offer numerous benefits, including weather and pest protection, numerous customization options, additional living space, and an increased home value.
• DIY porch screening is possible, especially if it’s a relatively simple project. However, if the project involves building a new porch or adding plumbing or electrical wiring, hiring a professional is usually the best option.

A screened-in front porch or back porch can increase the living space of a home and protect against bugs, sun, and inclement weather. According to HomeAdvisor and Angi, screened-in porch cost ranges from $2,000 to $2,800, with many homeowners spending $2,400 for a 200-square-foot porch—less than a pool screen enclosure costs to install. The pricing for screening runs from $3 to $5 per square foot, not including roofing, lumber, and labor costs. Screening in an existing porch is less expensive than constructing a new screened-in porch, which can range in price from $25 to $120 per square foot. Since every porch is different, the overall cost of a screened-in porch depends on the size of the porch, complexity of the project, price of materials, permit fees, local labor costs, and geographic location.

Labor prices are approximately $2 per square foot to screen in an existing porch. If lighting installation is added to the project, it can cost between $50 and $130 per hour to hire a professional electrician. For homeowners who want protection from the sun and insects but do not wish to have a porch attached to their home, there is the option to build a screened-in patio or covered porch. And if a front porch is looking tired, there are a few budget-friendly ways to revive a porch or make it more inviting. Before deciding on screening in a porch, homeowners will want to know what’s involved in the screening-in process. This guide will cover the important factors that influence screened-in porch cost, additional costs and considerations that can change the final cost of a screen porch installation, the various types of screen materials, the advantages of having a screened-in porch, and some frequently asked questions about screened-in porches and the installation process.

Factors in Calculating Screened-In Porch Cost

How much does it cost to put a screen around a porch? While many homeowners spend between $2,000 and $2,800 to screen in a porch, the overall cost can vary from the national average of $2,400 due to several important factors. These can include the size of the porch, screen material, frame material, flooring material, door installation, roof type, complexity of the project, local labor rates, and geographic location. Some homeowners may decide to complete other outdoor projects at the same time; for example, they may want to install a pool screen enclosure, repair or replace a deck, or restore a weathered deck. The cost to repair a deck will increase the overall price of the screened-in porch project.

Porch Size

The size of the porch will dictate the amount of material and the amount of time it will take to screen in an existing porch or build a new one. Typically, the larger the porch, the more expensive the price per square foot. Below are some average price ranges, including materials and installation, to screen in a porch and build a new one based on its size.

Screen Material

The type of screen material used to enclose a porch ranges in price and individual benefits. The most common types of screen materials are aluminum, brass, bronze, copper, fiberglass, stainless steel, and vinyl-coated polyester. Each has its own advantages when used in specific climates in certain geographic locations. Each screen material type is discussed in a section below.

Frame Material

Aluminum framing is the most common type of framing to use for screened-in porches, although there are other materials that homeowners can choose. Aluminum is typically coated in an enamel surface for protection; this also allows the frame to be available in multiple colors. A wood screen porch is another popular option, but homeowners will want to be aware of the level of maintenance that’s involved with wooden frames or posts. Below are the common materials that are available as frames or posts for screened-in porches and their average cost ranges.

Flooring Material

Screened-in porch flooring is available in a variety of options. Some of the most common flooring materials include poured concrete, concrete pavers, floating wood or tile, and radiant heat flooring. Below are the average price ranges for each type of flooring.

Door Installation

The type of door and the material will determine the overall cost to install a door between the screened-in porch and the yard. The average cost for door installation is about $300, but it can go as high as $2,000 depending on the style and material. Screen doors are usually made of aluminum and wood; some options include simple designs, locks, and ornate construction.

Roof Type

For homes that do not have an existing porch with an extended roof from the house, installing a roof will be necessary. Many homeowners want to match their home’s style when adding a screened-in porch and will also consider the roofing materials that will blend in with the existing roof. While metal roofs are becoming popular, shingles and wood shakes are also common. Glass roofs increase the amount of natural light coming into the space, but additional customizations, such as tinting, UV filters, and curved glass, can increase the price. Below are the common materials that can be used to cover a screened-in porch and their average price ranges.

Project Complexity

The difficulty of the project and complexity of the screened-in porch design also influence the final installation cost. A screened-in porch on the second floor will cost more than one that’s installed on the ground level, and if there is a balcony over the area of the ground-level screened-in porch, that will also raise the price. Land that is uneven will need to be graded before construction can begin; this will increase the overall cost as well.

Labor

Labor pricing to screen in an existing porch is approximately $2 per square foot. If the screened-in porch is new construction, the prices can range from $25 to $120 per square foot for the entire project. Some contractors may include labor with their total bill, while others may list it as a separate charge. It’s always wise for homeowners to double-check with the contractor regarding labor fees to avoid any unexpected charges.

Geographic Location

Depending on the geographic location, some homeowners may pay more for their screened-in porch than those in other areas of the country. Labor rates in densely populated urban areas that have a higher cost of living are typically higher than in more rural locations in the country. Access to materials may also be in short supply in certain locations, which will increase the overall price both to screen in an existing porch and to construct a new one. For homeowners who live in areas that experience a change in seasons, building during the warmer months when a contractor is experiencing their busy season may impact the project cost. Some may offer discounts during their off-season to build a screened-in back porch or front porch.

Additional Costs and Considerations

When budgeting for screened-in porch cost, many homeowners will find that there are additional price factors and considerations that can increase the overall price of the project. These can include the difference in cost between constructing a new screened-in porch and screening in an existing structure, customizations, permit fees, and old screen removal.

New vs. Existing Structure

With screen material costs from $3 to $5 per square foot and labor rates at $2 per square foot, screening in an existing porch is cheaper than building a new one. Adding roofing to a new screened-in porch can cost an additional $4,600 to $22,000.

Customizations

In addition to adding screening to an existing structure or building one from scratch, many homeowners also like to add extra features to their porch to increase their enjoyment of the space. Adding electricity, lighting, an outdoor kitchen, a fireplace, a ceiling fan, shades, curtains, and more can personalize the space and also increase the price.

• Ceiling fan. A screened-in porch ceiling fan needs to be installed at least 8 feet high for proper clearance. This customization can increase airflow and help keep the screened-in porch cooler during the heat of the day. Outdoor ceiling fans range in price from $100 for a basic model to $700 for a more high-end unit.
• Electricity. Depending on the existing electrical capacity of the home, an additional circuit to the electrical panel may be needed to power entertainment systems, heaters, ceiling fans, or lighting.
  Fireplace. An outdoor fireplace costs approximately $3,000, not including adding wiring for an electric version or running an additional gas hookup for a gas-powered fireplace. For homeowners looking for screen porch ideas on a budget, portable space heaters can be purchased for $100 to $500.
• Furniture. To extend the living space of a home and make it more comfortable, a screened-in porch needs furniture. For homeowners who are looking for inexpensive screen porch ideas on a budget, some patio table and chair sets can start as low as $100 to $350 and can get as high as $5,000, depending on brand, material, and size.
• Lighting. Some homeowners may choose to add lighting by installing a ceiling fan with lights, or they may add unique lighting to their space. Hanging light fixtures can cost from $14 to $5,000, and recessed lighting can range from $4 to $370.
• Outdoor kitchen. For those interested in entertaining on their screened-in porch or enclosed patio, the cost to build an outdoor kitchen is about $13,500 on average.
• Shades or curtains. Adding shades or curtains to a screened-in porch can increase privacy and block sunlight to cool the area. The overall price for shades and curtains depends on the size, material, brand, color, and number of panels that are needed. Outdoor curtains can range in price from $40 to $200 for a set of two panels, although high-end options will be more expensive.

Permits

Some locations may require a permit for a screened-in porch project. It’s important to check with the local building regulations and ordinances regarding screening in an existing porch or building a new one. The total price of a building permit depends on the size of the porch and the addition of any extra elements, such as an outdoor kitchen or a fireplace, but on average permits typically cost from $100 to $300. Many contractors will acquire the needed permits and include the pricing with their project total, while others may require that the homeowner gather the project permits. It’s always good for homeowners to double-check with the contractor regarding permits and permit fees before hiring them for a job.

Old Screen Removal

Removing old screens from a porch can cost from $300 to $450. It can take between 3 and 4 hours to remove the old screens, depending on the size of the porch and the amount of screen material that’s being removed. Homeowners will want to ask the contractor if there is an additional fee for removal and proper disposal of old screen material.

Screened-In Porch Cost by Type of Screen Material

There are several options for homeowners to choose from when deciding on screen material. It’s important to be aware of the pros and cons of each material and the reasons some selections are better suited to certain climates and weather conditions than others. The most common types of screen material for porches are aluminum, brass, bronze, copper, fiberglass, stainless steel, and vinyl-coated polyester. The type of material chosen is a significant factor in the overall project cost. Below are the most common screen materials and their average price ranges.

Aluminum Mesh

As a material that’s easy to cut and bend, aluminum mesh is a popular choice for screened-in porches. Available in black, charcoal, and silver, aluminum is corrosion-resistant against salt, moisture, and oxygen. Since it reflects more heat and light than other screen material options, aluminum is less effective at reducing heat during the hot summer months. Nevertheless, this strong and easy-to-work-with material outperforms fiberglass and is a good investment at approximately $0.28 per square foot.

Brass Mesh

As one of the most expensive screen material options, brass mesh is constructed of about 70 percent copper and 30 percent zinc. This metal alloy has many characteristics of copper and will tarnish over time to create a dark brown or black patina from oxidation. Brass mesh screen material is best avoided in coastal areas, since salt exposure will cause the material to corrode and have “bronze disease,” which results in bright white and green spots or green powder on the surface of the screen. Brass mesh screen material costs about $6 per square foot, on average.

Bronze Mesh

Bronze mesh is made of copper and a combination of a number of other materials, such as nickel, aluminum, tin, zinc, or manganese. When the material is new, the color is similar to that of a new penny, but over time it will change in color and take on a darker patina. Bronze mesh is not influenced by salt, so it’s an excellent choice for homes in coastal areas. The price for this screen material is $0.85 per square foot, but since it’s a bit more difficult to maneuver than other materials, it could cost more in labor to use it to screen in a porch.

Copper Mesh

Copper mesh screen material is easy to use and install. Since it bends easily and presents no problems when cutting, it’s typically fast to install around a porch. The color of a copper screen will change over time from its original color to a blue or green hue and then to black. This material is the most expensive option at $6.50 per square foot.

Fiberglass Mesh

As the most budget-friendly material, fiberglass mesh is not the strongest screen option. It tears easily and needs careful treatment. Some advantages of this material, however, are that it’s fire-resistant and it will not corrode like other screen mesh materials, such as brass, bronze, and copper. Made from glass yarn, fiberglass screen mesh is available in a range of colors and costs approximately $0.15 per square foot.

Stainless Steel Mesh

As a screen mesh material that will not tarnish or rust, stainless steel is strong and is suitable for use on screens in coastal areas. It has a shiny surface that can reflect sunlight and heat, unlike other screen materials, such as copper and brass after they’ve been discolored. Stainless steel mesh runs about $1 per square foot.

Vinyl-Coated Polyester Mesh

Constructed of polyester mesh that has an adhesive added to it before it’s covered in PVC for protection, vinyl-coated polyester mesh is an excellent option for many geographic locations. It’s not affected by salt in coastal regions, and it works well in warmer climates. Vinyl-coated polyester mesh is available in many different color options, although it’s common for homeowners to choose black or another dark color to avoid the reflection of the sunlight and Having a screened-in porch increases the number of days that a homeowner can spend outdoors. Being able to enjoy fresh air in a protected outside setting while being free of bugs is an attractive prospect for many homeowners. Screening in an existing porch or building a new screened-in porch has many advantages, such as protection from the weather and insects, multiple optional customizations to create a unique space, the addition of an extra living space, and increased overall value of a home.reduce heat in the screened-in porch. This mesh screen material costs $0.58 per square foot.

Benefits of a Choosing a Screened-In Porch

Having a screened-in porch increases the number of days that a homeowner can spend outdoors. Being able to enjoy fresh air in a protected outside setting while being free of bugs is an attractive prospect for many homeowners. Screening in an existing porch or building a new screened-in porch has many advantages, such as protection from the weather and insects, multiple optional customizations to create a unique space, the addition of an extra living space, and increased overall value of a home.

Weather Protection

A screened-in porch provides weather protection from rain and hot summer days. The shade provided by a screened-in porch allows space for homeowners to enjoy a family dinner outside, read a good book without the risk of sunburn, and host friends for a party. Some homeowners like to add curtains or shades to increase the protection from the sun or moisture from a passing rain shower.

Pest Protection

One of the biggest draws of a screened-in porch is the protection against pests. It’s difficult to enjoy an outdoor space if mosquitoes, flies, or other flying pests are constantly around. Having a screened-in porch will cut down on the number of insects that are on the porch so homeowners and their guests can enjoy it thoroughly.

Customization Options

Customizing a screened-in porch to make it more comfortable with additional features is another advantage over a traditional porch. Adding an entertainment center, ceiling fans, fireplace, outdoor kitchen, or speaker system can make it a focal point of the home and provide an excellent space for entertaining.

Additional Living Space

Moving the indoors outside to a screened-in porch can increase the living space of a home. Having a comfortable spot for couches and chairs or a dining area can add extra space to entertain guests or a place for kids to play if it’s raining.

Increased Home Value

Not only will a screened-in porch increase the curb appeal for potential home buyers, it will provide a good return on investment. Many homeowners will receive an approximately 75 percent return on investment for installing a screened-in porch for their home.

Screened-In Porch Installation: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

If a home has a porch and the homeowner is interested in screening it in so they can get more use out of it, they may decide to learn how to screen in a porch and go the DIY route. For some homeowners, the time and effort they put into screening in a porch are worth it for the money they’ll save. DIY screened-in porch kits are available for about $2,000. These kits provide everything that’s needed to screen in an existing porch, such as screens, railings, posts, doors, and more, but not tools. Some tools that are needed to screen in a porch include a hammer, nails, drill, utility knife, heavy-duty stapler, level, and rubber mallet. Many homeowners prefer to hire a professional to screen in their porch to ensure the job is done correctly in a suitable amount of time. It’s recommended that homeowners hire a pro if they want to build a new porch to their home. Building contractors have the experience and knowledge to add home extensions like screened-in porches. If an existing porch needs a new roof, posts, or repairs, it’s a good idea to hire a pro as well. If the screened-in porch needs electricity for lighting or an outdoor kitchen, or a new gas line for a fireplace, a professional electrician or plumber will need to be hired.

How to Save Money on Screened-In Porch Cost

Having a screened-in porch has many advantages, which include increased living space, protection from rain and sun, defense against insects, and increased home value. Depending on the size of the porch and the need for new construction, the price of the project can quickly add up. Below are some money-saving tips when homeowners are budgeting for screened-in porch cost.

• Get multiple estimates. Get at least three estimates from reputable building contractors in your area to find a rate that works with your budget.
• Consider the season. Homeowners can save money on screening in an existing porch or building a new one during the off-season. Contractors may offer discounts for jobs during the time of year when there are minimal requests for their services.
• Install one door. Having only one door to access the screened-in porch from the outside will cut down the project total.
• Use quality materials. Opting for cheaper materials when screening in a porch or building a new one will require extra maintenance and possibly replacement in the near future. Using good quality materials can increase the lifespan of the porch.
• Evaluate geographical concerns. If you live in an area that experiences excess insects or scorching heat, be sure the screen mesh is tight enough so bugs can’t pass through and that there is enough shade to make the space enjoyable. Otherwise, a screened-in porch will go unused.
• Consider the size. For new builds, a larger screened-in porch will cost considerably more than a smaller option.
• Cut down on the additions. While having an outdoor kitchen may sound appealing to some homeowners, the cost to install one will cause the overall price of the project to skyrocket. Stick with simple porch ideas to save money.
• Opt for budget-friendly decor. Buying outdoor furniture for a price that fits into your budget can save money over buying custom high-end upholstered fabrics.

Questions to Ask About Screened-In Porch Installation

Asking a professional the right questions can help homeowners learn important information about screening in an existing porch or building a new one. Below are some questions that homeowners can ask a professional about screening in an existing porch or building a new screened-in porch.

• How long have you been building screened-in porches?
• Are you licensed and insured?
• Will you provide references?
• Do you have a portfolio of screened-in porch builds that you’ve completed within the past year?
• Do you offer guarantees on your work? If so, what are the terms?
• Is each of your employees covered by worker’s compensation insurance?
• What does your standard contract include?
• Who will be screening in/building my porch?
• Do you use subcontractors at any point in the process?
• How long will it take to screen in the porch/build the porch?
• What can I do to prepare for the screening/building process?
• How do you handle screen installation in areas with high winds?
• Are you experienced in installing skylights?
• Do you provide repairs?
• Do you have an electrician on staff, or will I need to hire one on my own?
• What types of screen materials do you offer?
• What types of roof coverings do you provide?
• How will you ensure the gutter system for the new porch blends in with the existing one?
• What is your payment plan?
• How can I leave a review of your work?

FAQs

When homeowners are deciding on screened-in porch costs, it’s helpful for them to have all the information available regarding screening in a porch or building a new one. Below are some frequently asked questions about screened-in porch cost.

Q. Do I need building permits for screening a porch?

Some locales may require a permit to screen in a porch. It’s recommended that homeowners double-check the local building codes and permit requirements in their area.

Q. Is it cheaper to make a sunroom or screen a porch?

A sunroom is a completely enclosed space that can be used year-round, while a screened-in porch can be used during the warmer months, or with heaters, during the colder months. Sunroom additions can cost from $8,000 to $80,000, while many homeowners spend between $2,000 and $2,800 to screen in an existing porch.

Q. Why do I need a screened-in porch?

Many homeowners want a screened-in porch because it can keep out bugs and flying insects that can bite and annoy.

Q. How much does it cost to screen a porch on average?

The price to screen in a 200-square-foot porch runs from $2,000 to $2,800, with the national average at $2,400. To build a brand-new screened-in porch can cost from $25 to $120 per square foot.

Q. How much does it cost to convert a screened-in porch?

Enclosing an existing porch with screening can help homeowners save money on building a new structure—especially if the porch is in good condition. Building a new porch can add $4,600 to $22,000 to the project costs.

Q. What is the best material for a screened-in porch?

Homeowners will want to take their needs and the local climate into consideration when screening in their porch. Family members with allergies would benefit from pollen-rated screens to keep out allergens; homes in areas with high winds need strong screen mesh material to withstand the battering the porch will take; and homes that have direct sunlight will benefit from screen materials that can deflect the heat to make the screened-in porch cooler. A contractor can recommend the best materials for a home’s location and for a homeowner’s needs.

Sources: HomeAdvisor, Angi, HomeGuide, HomeLight