As the summer finally gives way to the fall, the weather will soon be dipping. For those in the Charlotte area who want to extend their time outdoors, a screened porch might be a perfect option. If you are one of the many homeowners looking to enhance your outside enjoyment, your likely first question might be, “How much will it cost to add a screened porch?”
We get it. No one is looking to spend more money in this economy and right before the holidays, but now might be the best time ever!
Unfortunately, there isn’t a magic calculator that we can provide that will consider every factor and give you a one-size-fits-all estimate, at least not one that is true or transparent.
But that doesn’t mean we can’t give you an idea of what to expect…
What Does a Screened Porch Cost in Charlotte, NC?
A professionally built screened porch can vary greatly from one region to another and from one project to the next. In general, screened porch installations or conversions can cost anywhere from several thousand dollars for a simple conversion to tens of thousands of dollars for a newly built custom porch.
That is a pretty large and unpredictable range. We know that isn’t necessarily what you are looking for.
The reason is simple: “screened porch” can mean different things for different projects.
While one homeowner might be starting with a solid foundation, another might not have anything and will need to build from scratch. If you start from scratch, you will need things like footings, framing, a roof, gutters, electrical work, ceiling fans, doors, and the screen enclosure itself. You can quickly see how fast costs can escalate.
Although both homeowners might be looking for the same screened porch, their paths to get there vary greatly in cost and man-hours.
What Factors Affect the Cost of a Screened Porch?
1. Are We Converting an Existing Porch or Building a New One?
Of all the factors involved, this quite arguably might be the most important.
If you already have a structurally sound covered porch, it might be possible to use what you already have to build new.
If we’re creating an entirely new outdoor living area, there are considerably more steps and expenses involved.
That doesn’t automatically mean your existing porch can simply be screened in. Before moving forward or assuming that you have a base to work with, the structure needs to be evaluated to determine whether it is appropriate for the project.
2. The Size of Your Screened Porch
As with most things in life, size matters.
A smaller porch design generally requires fewer materials and less labor than a large outdoor living area. But square footage is not the only factor that you have to be mindful of.
The number and size of the openings that need to be screened can make a significant difference in the cost.
3. The Type of Screening You Choose
A screen isn’t just a screen anymore.
Depending on how you plan to use the space, there are different options available that affect the room’s durability, visibility, and the overall experience of the space itself.
Some homeowners also do not want to use traditional fixed screens. Motorized retractable screens provide more flexibility because the screens can appear and disappear with the touch of a button. That is a great feature, but it does come at a cost.
4. Roofing
If your existing porch doesn’t have a roof, adding one can add a significant amount of time and cost to the overall project.
Roof styles, sizes, materials, and how the roof integrates with your existing home can all affect how much it costs.
Be careful, however; a roof is not the place where you want to cut corners. Your new porch should look and function like it belongs in the overall existing design. If you make it an afterthought, it will look like one.
5. Flooring and Foundation
What are we building on?
An existing concrete patio or deck versus a completely new structure presents very different building scenarios and different construction requirements.
Just because you already have an existing concrete slab or deck, that doesn’t necessarily mean that it is structurally sound enough to take the weight of a new outside addition. That is something you need to have examined before you assume you know the cost of screening in a porch or building a new one.
6. Electrical and Comfort Features
When you get into additional features such as electrical and other custom enhancements, that is where a simple screened porch is no longer simple.
Some homeowners want:
- Ceiling fans
- Lighting
- Additional outlets
- A television
- Outdoor heaters
- Specialty lighting
- Motorized screens or shades
None of these options alone will significantly change your cost, but combining them can start to drive the price up.
It is important to note that building in custom comfort items is important when you are building, not after the fact when it will be more expensive to fit them into the overall existing space.
Is a Screened Porch Worth the Investment in Charlotte?
For many in the Carolinas, the biggest advantage isn’t just adding a nice-looking room onto your home. It’s gaining functional and usable year-round space.
Charlotte gives us plenty of beautiful days to enjoy outside.
Unfortunately, we also get mosquitoes, bugs, humidity, falling leaves, pollen, and those evenings when sitting outside isn’t always pleasurable without some level of protection from the elements.
A screened porch creates a middle ground between being completely indoors and completely outdoors.
So, it isn’t just about increasing your home’s equity or making your home more curbside-attractive; it is about enhancing your overall quality of life and enjoyment.
Screened Porch vs. Four-Season Sunroom — Which One Should You Build?
This is a good question to ask and answer before you have someone give you an estimate. If what you really want is more usable and functional space, then a screened porch might not be enough.
A four-season sunroom provides a much more comfortable and conditioned space. It also is considered usable square footage that will increase your home value.
Neither one is best for all situations or homeowners. The better choice really depends on how you want to use and live in the space. That is why it is best to have an idea of what you intend to use the room for before getting estimates.
Can I Turn My Existing Porch or Patio Into a Screened Porch?
The answer is maybe. If you have an existing porch or patio that you want to screen in, there is a chance it could save you money. First, it is important to have a professional evaluate the existing structure, roof, foundation or flooring, drainage, access to the house, and the overall condition of the space.
Sometimes an existing area is an excellent starting point, and sometimes it is not.
The important thing is that you know before you begin building or planning.
How Can I Get a Better Idea of What My Screened Porch Will Cost?
Since no two projects are the same, we have developed our Outdoor Living Project Estimate Calculator.
Instead of jumping through the hoops of having to schedule an appointment, wait for us to come out, and then tell you what it’s going to cost, our calculator can give you a guide as to whether your project is within your budget with a preliminary estimate.
It’s not a final quote, however.
Every property and project differs, and all of the factors related to your individual specifications will affect the total cost. But our calculator can at least give you a reference point.
Ready to See What Your Project Might Cost?
Use our Outdoor Living Project Estimate Calculator to get a starting point for your project.
Then, if the numbers make sense for you, send us your project information and let the Express Sunrooms of the Carolinas team take a closer look.
Whether you’re considering a screened porch, sunroom, motorized screens, or another outdoor living project, we’ll help you determine which option makes the most sense for you personally. Contact us today to get started.
