Porch Enclosures - Ten Great Ideas To Consider

• Home |
• Designs |
• Building Ideas |
• Screen Porches |
• Enclosures |
• Mobile Home Porches |
• Plans |
• Landscaping |
• Decorate |
• Columns |
• Railings |
• Roofs |
• Porch Curtains Blinds |
• Furniture |
• Screen Doors |
• Shop |
• New Stuff

For Lasting Time on the Porch

Why Do Homeowners Love Enclosed Porches?

Enclosed porches are a wonderful space for relaxing

• Increased privacy: You'll have more privacy than an open porch for relaxing and unwinding.
• Fewer bugs: Less mosquitoes and flies to contend with.
• Shelter from weather: Even if it's rainy or windy, you can enjoy time on the porch.
• Extra security: One extra layer for keeping out intruders, if you keep it locked, of course.
• Added living space: your enclosed porch can work as a dining area, reading room or even a kids' play area
• More opportunities for decorating: Since your furniture will mostly be out of the elements, you will experience less weather and sun damage allowing you to keep a bit nicer furniture than on an open porch.
• Up to year-round use: Depending on your climate, an enclosed porch can be heated, allowing you and your family to enjoy more time on the porch.

Overview of Porch Enclosure Systems

• Your goals: What are your specific needs for enclosing your porch or patio? Are you hoping for year-round use or simply season use? How many square feet would be a comfortable space? Your goals will influence the type and design of the enclosure.
• Material and durability: Choose the most durable, heavy duty and weather-resistant materials your budget allows for your enclosure system. For example, vinyl, aluminum, and tempered glass are typical. Take into account your local climate. Do you have harsh weather condition and strong wind loads? How much maintenance are you willing to accept?
• Ventilation: Adequate ventilation is of great importance not only for the fresh air benefits, but also to prevent moisture buildup and to maintain a comfortable environment. But how can you get the ventilation you need? Consider sliding windows, screened panels, or adjustable vents for adequate airflow and keeping out pests and debris, dust.
• Energy efficiency: If you plan to use the enclosed space all year, think about the insulation and energy efficiency of the system. High-quality doors and windows with energy-efficient features help maintain comfortable temperatures, reducing your energy costs.
• Permits and regulations: Check your local building codes and regulations before your purchase a porch enclosure system. You want to be sure you comply with setbacks and designs for your area.
• Budget, installation and customer service: What is your budget overall? Think about materials, labor, and any extra components like ighting or heating. Of course, consider the installation process, especially if professional installation is required. You may want to get several quotes from qualified, reputable contractors. And lastly, good to excellent customer service cannot be stated enough.
• Aesthetics: The visual impact of your porch enclosure system is important, too. Choose a design that complements your home's architecture and blends seamlessly with the overall look of your property. You want it to look like it belongs there.

Ways to Enclose Your Porch



The two of us hope you enjoy these ideas for enclosing your porch

Porch Enclosure Ideas for Almost Any Size Porch

1. Screen Porch Windows

A do-it-yourself solution that we personally love. Makes it really easy to enclose your porch, deck and even your garage if you'd like. Windows are custom made to fit almost opening width making them very easy to install. Learn all about these innovative porch windows. They might be the solution you've been looking for to create a wonderful screen room.

2. Outdoor Curtains and Outdoor Drapes

Add elegance and ambiance by using outdoor curtains or outdoor drapes on your porch, screen porch, 3-season, and four season porches. Porch curtains move with the breeze and add a whimsical touch to your porch. Consider outdoor curtain panels.

3. Attractive Mosquito Curtains

Mosquito curtains, a very specific type of porch curtains, are an easy way to enclose your porch, deck, or patio without the expense of screening your porch. These are ideal for almost any geographical location where mosquitos and other insects are a nuisance. Another idea, too, for the cooler months is clear vinyl curtains, which would keep the cold drafts out yet allow you to enjoy the light and views. Note: Photo is courtesy of The Larelle House Bed and Breakfast which has now become the Dickens House Bed and Breakfast.

4. DIY Screened Porch Kits

From standard packages to custom-made, DIY porch enclosure kits are great for creating a screen room that adds space and prolongs your outdoor enjoyment.
• An enclosure allows you bug-free outdoor enjoyment
• Porch and patio enclosures shelter you from the elements and provides instant shade to keep you cool
• They can be practically maintenance free; most are made from aluminum
• Enclosures add beauty and awesome functionality to your home

Our Little Story

When we lived in New Hampshire years ago, Mary and I purchased and installed a DIY screen porch enclosure kit similar to the one pictured below and were glad we did. We enjoyed the additional family space for meals and relaxing. It truly was like an extra room for our small home and an excellent investment for our family. We entertained friends and neighbors often and our sons have nice memories of time spent there. Depending on your geographical area, these may be seasonal structures as they are not constructed to bear the weight of snow or ice. However, they are very easy to install and store for winter if needed. They are three sided and attach to the side of your home; perfect for decks or patios.

We had a durable, portable screen porch similar to this when our family lived in New EnglandPicture courtesy of screen-house.com

Honestly, if we hadn't lived in New Hampshire where the snowfall is heavy, I think we would have had our Thanksgiving dinner on our screened porch. We loved it that much.

6. Sophisticated NanaWall ®

Open wall systems give you many options. An open wall system blends indoor and outdoor spaces of your residence with unobstructed views.

7. Pre-Constructed Window Wall Systems

Window wall systems can be installed on your porch, deck, or patio using your existing roof. Walls are prefabricated and sized to fit your openings and are perfect as a DIY project for most homeowners. Panels vary in design as some can slide or swing to open - to allow maximum air flow and versatility. We think these would be ideal as a screen porch, three season room, or even four season room. Watch this short video illustrating this neat option: Learn more about them at Home Porch And Patio Kits

8. Build Your Own Enclosure

You have several different options, any one of which may be just what you need. See our extensive section on building your own screen porch to see how easy it can be. You just might be surprised at your options like a walls only kit! Check it out!

Two Quick (and relatively inexpensive) Porch Enclosure Idea

Here's a versatile and easy way to create a porch enclosure, especially one that you can open and close at will to block the wind or to offer privacy when you need it. Attach shutters together with hinges to extend half of the length between columns. Make two sets for each span. Attach shutter assemblies to the columns. Use an eye and hook to latch the shutters together in the middle. Another porch enclosure idea we've seen is to use wooden screen doors with full length screens). Attach them together for for walls. You may be able to find a sufficient amount for your project free or at minimal cost through sites like Marketplace or Nextdoor.

9. Custom Built Porch Enclosure

Although not everyone can afford to have a custom designed screen porch or three season porch (like the one designed by The Porch Company in Nashville), it is the perfect option for acquiring a one-of-a kind enclosure. Many of them have built in fireplaces, sophisticated lighting, and exotic flooring. Whether you are considering one or not, you might want to see some photos of exquisite custom screen porches to get ideas for your own enclosure.

10. Convert Your Porch to a Three-Season, Sunroom, or Four Season Room

Why not extend your outdoor time by adding features to turn your porch, patio, or deck into a three season, sunroom, or even a four season room.

Photo courtesy of copperline

It really isn't that difficult to do because the framing is already in place. Add porch windows or insulated glass windows, insulation, a heat and/or cooling source, a little siding to the outside and you have the makings of the perfect outdoor get-a-way spot you can use year round. See our three season porch and sunroom ideas sections and start planning today!

Ideas For Small Porch Enclosures

Maximizing space on a small porch is essential to maintaining both functionality and aesthetics. It can be challenging so here's a few quick ideas we think will do both. The options we list below are dependent on available space, the architecture of your home, and budget.
• Screen Enclosure
Construct a screen porch by installing screen panels and a screen door to not only make it bug free but also make a welcoming entrance. You can purchase a screen porch kit or screen panels to fit your openings, or make your own depending on your skill level.
• Glass Panels
Perhaps the most expensive option, use glass panels to provide a clear view while simultaneously allowing natural light to fill the space.
• Plexiglas Panels
Plexiglas panels are less expensive than glass but still offer the same transparency.
• Sliding Glass Doors
If space permits, sliding glass doors along with either glass or Plexiglas panels can be installed to enclose the porch and provide a protected entrance to your home. For ventilation, you can add sliding screen doors to add more functionality.
• French Doors
French doors add both a classic and elegant look. They can be opened wide to merge indoor and outdoor spaces.
• Retractable Screens
Retractable screens may be an ideal solution. You can pull them down when needed or roll up when not in use to provide a flexible enclosure.
• Curtains or Drapes
An easy porch enclosure option is to hang outdoor curtains or drapes between columns. You have lots of options for colors and patterns.
• Wooden or Vinyl Lattice Panels
Use wooden or vinyl lattice panels to enclose the porch, providing privacy while still allowing airflow and some visibility. Vinyl lattice panels come in a wide variety of patterns. Canvas Awnings Attach canvas awnings to the porch to create shade and partial enclosure from the sun and rain.
• Folding Glass Walls
Although expensive, consider installing folding glass walls that can be fully opened to create an open-air porch or closed to enclose the space completely.
• Hybrid Solutions
Combine different enclosure options, such as using a combination of glass panels and screens, to create a versatile and customizable porch enclosure.
• Foliage
Use climbing plants, trellises, or planter boxes with tall shrubs to create a natural enclosure around the porch, adding beauty and privacy.

Use These Tips When Choosing a Porch Enclosure

• Go for the Most Space You Can Afford and Accommodate The most prevalent mistake Mary and I have discovered is that many people build or install an enclosure that is not large enough. Under most circumstances, you won't regret having a larger enclosure. Consider how much space you have available and determine how you will be using it. Mary and I prefer to have both an enclosure and open space for grilling and sitting out under the stars.
• Tips on Cost Cost is always a consideration. If feasible and within your budget, opt for a higher quality enclosure. It will last longer and wear better than less expensive models. This could possibly save you money in the long run. Respect your budget though!
• Choose Your Best Location If you have options, locate your enclosure for enjoy privacy. In addition, consider the movement of the sun across your enclosure. Try to avoid the heat of the sun or winds, if you can.


Easy way to enclose your porch - outdoor curtainsTraci of Beneath My Heart shows you how

The vinyl window enclosure you see above is great for blocking rain, snow, or wind without losing your view. We hope we gave you some good ideas for enclosing your porch.

Now Please Visit Related Topics Three Season Porches Three season porches give you the benefit of screen windows and the comfort of an outdoor room...

Four Season Porch Options Creating a four season porch may be easier than you previously thought...

You Are Here: Home / Screened Porch Design / Porch Enclosures

Hi! We're Mary and Dave, lifelong DIYers, high school sweethearts, and we both love porches. You've come to the right place for thousands of porch ideas.

Our Sponsors

End Sponsors

Helpful Links

Enjoy shopping Amazon (affiliate link)

Popular Pages

What's New Join Our Newsletter Family Porch Designs Porch Ideas for Mobile Homes Build a Porch | Small Porches Porch Columns | Porch Railings Screened Porches Porch Curtains | Porch Enclosures Porch Landscaping | Vinyl Lattice Porch Decorating | Porch Ideas Shop

Navigation Aids

Home | Top of Page Site Search | Site Map Contact Us

Policies

Disclosure Policy | Privacy Policy Legal Info

Please Join Us Here Also

Find a Trusted Local Pro Copyright© 2008-2025Front-Porch-Ideas-and-More.com All rights reserved. No content or photos may be reused or reproduced in any way without our express written permission. At no extra cost to you, we earn a commission by referring you to some products on merchant sites. See our disclosure policy. We, Front Porch Ideas and More, confirm, as stated on our privacy policy, that we do not sell personal information. All content here is solely for presenting ideas. We recommend consulting with a licensed, experienced contractor before you begin your project. We make no guarantees of accuracy or completeness of information on our site or any links to other websites contained here. Thank you for taking your time to stop by. See what's popular and new here.

--- My New Molly Jo Book ---

--- Our Wonderful Sponsors ---

--- End Sponsors ---

Our Newsletter, Front Porch Appeal