If you have a traditional deck on your home, you might want to make it more versatile. One of the downsides of a deck is the fact that it can’t be used in bad weather.
Many people build screened-in patios that are much more usable. However, these are generally big construction projects and count as additions to the home.
If you are looking for a way to use your deck more often, there are options available to you.
Luckily, there is a way to screen in a deck so you can use it all year. With some simple construction, you can create a space that is more inclusive.
In this article, we have laid out a way that you can add some versatility to your deck.
By following the below steps, you can protect yourself from the elements. You can also get a lot more use out of your deck and get a better return on investment.
To screen in your deck without a roof, the steps are fairly simple. They include:
- Install some posts for framing
- Put a roof on top
- Install a doorway
- Install the screen material
Key Takeaways
Screening in a deck can keep pests out and offer rain protection. Here’s how to do it:
- Attach 4×4 wooden framing posts and secure them with lag bolts. Then, attach them to the outer deck.
- Attach the roof with brackets via the support posts. Allow for an angle to let water drain, or install a gutter.
- Install a door either with the screen or with a real door. Keep it accessible. For screen doors, use magnetic strips to keep closed.
- Screen in by ensuring it goes to the bottom of your decking. Attach to posts using fasteners or staples (heavy-duty for long-term protection).
Pro Tip: Some may not realize that screening in your deck can significantly add value to your home. Not only does it increase the usability of existing outdoor space, but it can also be a major selling point should you decide to put your home on the market. So consider this project an investment in your home’s future as well!
Why Screen in a Deck Without a Roof?
If you have a deck, you know how difficult it can be to use it in the winter. When it is raining, you may feel like you are missing out.
When you screen in a deck, you get all the benefits of a deck without all the hassle. You will also be adding a small roof that lets you get the most out of your deck.
By screening in your deck, you don’t have to worry about things like mosquitoes. The screen will keep them out and you can enjoy the outdoors without all the bug bites.
You can also feel like you are enjoying nature without being exposed to the elements.
When you screen in your deck, you will be adding a small roof as well. This helps protect you and lets you use the deck most of the year.
The screen and the roof will also protect the deck and keep it in good shape for much longer.
Pro Tip: Always remember that selecting the right screen material is key when screening in a deck. Go for a durable and good-quality screen that would effectively keep out pests but also have good visibility. From my experience, fiberglass screens are a great option since they’re both strong and offer excellent clarity.
Install the Framing Posts
The first thing you will have to do when screening in a deck is attach the framing posts.
These posts should be made of 4×4 wood and, if possible, should be pressure treated. This will help mitigate things like mold, rot, and mildew.
You can secure the posts to your home using large lag bolts, which will be strong enough to hold them.
You will then attach the posts to the outside portion of the deck using the same bolts.
Keep in mind that the outside posts will need to be slightly lower than the posts on the house. This is so the fiberglass roof can drain in the event of rain.
If your deck is large, you will need to have more posts. In general, it is a good idea to have posts every six feet to ensure there is enough support.
Attach the Roof
Once your posts are attached, you can then attach the roof. This can be done using brackets on the support posts.
Generally, your roof will be made of fiberglass or plastic. These can be purchased at any hardware store.
They are the same roofs that are used for things like sheds and storage units. However, they will also work for your screened-in porch.
If you want something that is a little more durable, metal can also work. The important thing is that it seals in the porch and keeps it from getting wet.
Make sure that there is enough of an angle on the roof to allow water to drain. If you want, you can also install a small gutter system to direct rain away from the entrance.
Install the Door
For the most part, you can install a door using the screen. However, if you want something more permanent, you can use a real door.
You can install a door jamb just like you would with a traditional home. Then, you can install the screen around it.
Make sure that your door is accessible and that it will work for your purposes. You will want to be able to easily enter and exit no matter what the weather is like.
If you want to use the screen as a door, there are magnetic strips you can use to keep it closed. This is an affordable, simple way to have an entrance and keep all the insects out of the deck area.
Screen it In
Once you have figured out what your door situation will be, you can then start installing the screen.
Make sure that your screen material goes all the way to the bottom of the decking. This will ensure that no water gets in and no insects can make their way onto the deck.
Attach the screen material to the posts using staples or nail fasteners. Depending on how permanent you want it to be, you may want to use heavy-duty fasteners.
Pro Tip: From my experience, even though this guide mentions only attaching the screen at the bottom of the deck, I would recommend securing it at multiple points throughout. This gives more stability to the structure and ensures it remains intact even during bad weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you turn a deck into an addition?
You can turn a deck into an addition. However, if you are going to have a permanent structure, check your local building codes.
You may need to get special permits to make this project happen.
What is a three-season sunroom?
A three-season sunroom is a porch that is not insulated. If you want a four-season sunroom, you will need to install insulation.
A four-season sunroom is a much more complicated project and will take a lot more money and time.
Do sunrooms have screens?
For the most part, sunrooms are made of glass and are much more permanent structures. However, if you want to use screens, you can absolutely do this.
Using screens is a great way to enclose an area without having to deal with all the expense.
Conclusion
If you are looking to enjoy your deck in poor weather, screening it in is a great option. You can install the screen easily and it will not cost much money.
By following the above steps, you can get the deck you want and enjoy it all year.
