Screened-in porches are prime spots for taking advantage of an indoor/outdoor lifestyle. A screened-in porch offers a private spot for families to relax and entertain. In fact, it is an extension of the home. However, did you know that the origins of the screened-in porch were born out of necessity?
In the late 1800s, homeowners in the southern US had sleeping porches that were built on balconies off of their bedrooms. During the hot summer months, families slept outdoors on the screened-in porch in order to enjoy the cooler night air while being protected from bugs. With the invention and widespread use of air conditioning, the sleeping porch became less necessary and today’s screened-in porch was born. While screened-in porches have cycled in and out of popularity over the years, today’s homeowners are taking advantage of outdoor living space and screened-in porches have once again made a comeback.
Here are some of the advantages of incorporating a screened-in porch in your home design.
Added living space. A screened-in porch is an excellent way to add extra living space to a home. Design elements, such as a vaulted ceiling, used both indoors and outdoors can create a unified look and feel to these transitional spaces. Accessories—such as light fixtures and sound systems—can also be added outdoors to help complete this seamless transition.
Year-Round Enjoyment. If built properly, homeowners throughout the DC metro area can enjoy a screened-in porch year-round. Added features, such as a ceiling fan and/or a portable heat source, can help add regulate temperatures.
Insect protection. One of the biggest benefits of a screened-in porch, over other types of decks and patios, is that they help to keep the insects at bay. It allows homeowners to enjoy everyday activities, such as meals, without having to worry about biting insects.
Enhanced interest. A screened-in porch adds depth to a backyard and can be a focal point to an ordinary backyard garden.
Increase in home value. On average, homeowners can expect an 84 percent return on investment for a screened-in porch addition.
In addition to the benefits of adding a screened-in porch, here are some things to consider:
- If adding a screened-in porch to an existing home, think about the flow in and out of the home as well as the placement of existing windows. You don’t want to sacrifice the flow of natural light into the home.
- There are a variety of building materials to choose from when constructing a screened-in porch, including pavers, brick, stone, and wood.
- Turn your screened-in porch into an entertainment center with the addition of an outdoor kitchen or bar, recessed lighting, a television, or a masonry fireplace.
- When furnishing your screened-in porch, look for furniture upholstered in outdoor fabrics that can hold up to heat and moisture as well as easy-to-clean tables and chairs.
Are you looking for more detail about the indoor/outdoor projects that we build? Please see our article Transitioning from Indoor to Outdoor Living Spaces as well as the Outdoor Living page on our website.
