What is a Screen Room? Detailed Guide to Screened Porches and Patios

sunroom with wal to wall windows

A screened room is a type of outdoor living space that is designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable place to relax, entertain, or simply spend time with family and friends. It is typically built onto the side of a house or attached to a deck or patio and is enclosed by screens on all sides to keep out insects, bugs, and other pests.

Screens can be added to porches, patios, and decks. These can also be built from new just for the screened room. For this type of home enclosure, screens separate you from the outdoors, which keeps any insects, spiders, or animals away from your family.

Screen room Benefits

One of the main benefits of a screened porch is that it allows you to enjoy the outdoors without being bothered by annoying spiders, snakes, scorpions, or other creepy crawly things This is especially useful in areas where mosquitoes, flies, and other bugs are prevalent, as it allows you to sit outside and enjoy the outdoor air without having to worry about being bitten or stung.

Another advantage of a screened porch is that it provides an extra layer of protection from the weather whether that’s rain, sleet, snow, or hail. While it is not completely waterproof like a fully built-out room, a screened porch can provide some cover from the sun, rain, and wind, making it a wonderful place to relax on days when the weather isn’t cooperating.

Screening off your porch or patio can also create a sense of privacy and offer seclusion. Unlike an open deck, which may be seen by the people who live near you or people driving by, a screened room will create a private space. This can be especially desirable when those who live in crowded cities or in planned communities with very small yards. In the southwest, most people have walls between their houses; however, when I lived in the midwest and east coast there was simply more open yard between homes. For houses in these areas, the screened room is a much better return on investment when looking to sell your home.

Types of Screen for a Screened Porch

Another important factor to consider is the type of screens you will use. There are several options to choose from, including fiberglass, aluminum, and metal screens. Each type has its own pros and cons, so it is important to do your research and choose the option that best fits your needs and budget.

Using Fiblass Screens for a Screened Patio


Fiberglass screens are a popular choice for screened porches because of their durability and versatility. Fiberglass is a strong and flexible material that is resistant to tearing, sagging, and other forms of damage. It is also resistant to fading and discoloration, so it maintains its attractive appearance over time.

sunroom used as office

One of the main benefits of using fiberglass screens for a screened porch is that they are relatively easy to install. They are available in rolls or panels and can be cut to fit any size or shape of the porch. They can be attached to a wooden frame using staples, nails, or screws, or they can be attached to a metal frame using clips or other fasteners.

Fiberglass screens are also easy to maintain. They can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water, and they can be repaired if they become damaged. If a screen becomes torn or damaged, it can often be repaired by simply patching the hole or replacing the damaged section.

In addition to their practical advantages, fiberglass screens also offer a number of aesthetic benefits. They are available in a range of colors and styles, so you can choose a screen that complements the design of your home and your taste.

They also allow for good visibility, so you can enjoy the views from your screened porch without feeling enclosed or confined.

Overall, fiberglass screens are a reliable and cost-effective choice for a screened porch. They are durable, easy to install and maintain and offer a range of benefits that make them a popular choice for homeowners.

Using Aluminum Screens for a Screened Porch


Aluminum screens are another popular option for screened porches because of their durability, strength, and low maintenance requirements. Aluminum is a strong and lightweight metal that is resistant to rust, corrosion, and other forms of damage. It is also easy to clean and maintain, making it an attractive choice for outdoor living areas.

One of the main benefits of using aluminum screens for a screened porch is that they are extremely durable. They can withstand extreme temperatures, high winds, and other harsh weather conditions, and they are resistant to damage from pets, children, and other sources. They are also resistant to fading, so they maintain their attractive appearance over time.

view of patio with trashcan through windows with shade

Another advantage of aluminum screens is that they are easy to install. They are available in rolls or panels and can be cut to fit around corners or curves. They can be attached to a wooden frame using staples, nails, or screws, or they can be attached to a metal frame using clips or other fasteners.

In addition to their practical advantages, aluminum screens also offer several aesthetic benefits. They are available in a range of colors and styles, so you can choose a screen that complements the design of your home and your taste. They also allow for good visibility, so you can enjoy the views from your screened porch without feeling enclosed or confined.

Overall, aluminum screens are a reliable and long-lasting choice for a screened porch. They are durable, easy to install and maintain and offer a range of benefits that make them a popular choice for homeowners.

In addition to screens, there are a few other features you may want to include in your screened porch design. For example, you may want to add a roof or canopy to provide additional protection from the sun or rain. You may also want to consider installing a ceiling fan to help circulate air and keep the space comfortable on hot summer days.

sunroom with wicker furniture and deck
Finally, when decorating your screened porch, there are endless possibilities to choose from. You can add comfortable furniture, throw pillows and blankets, and even a fireplace or outdoor heating source to make the space feel warm and inviting. Adding plants, flowers, and other natural elements can also help to create a serene and peaceful atmosphere.

Advantages and Disadvantages of a Screen Room

When you are thinking of adding a screened room whether that’s a porch, patio or deck where you’ll need to add a roof, they all offer some advantages and disadvantages. We’ve compiled a list below from our research over the years.

Advantages of Adding a Screened Porch to your Home


  • Enjoy the outdoors without being bothered by bugs and pests
  • Provides extra protection from the elements
  • Offers a sense of privacy and seclusion
  • Increases the value of your home
  • Provides additional space for relaxation and entertaining

Disadvantages of Adding a Screened Porch to your Home


  • The initial cost of construction and materials
  • Requires ongoing maintenance to keep screens in good condition
  • May not provide as much protection from the elements as a fully enclosed room
  • May not be suitable for colder climates
  • May not provide as much privacy as a fully enclosed room

Overall, a screened porch is a great way to add value, functionality, and enjoyment to your home. Whether you use it as a place to relax and unwind, entertain friends and family, or simply enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, a screened porch can be a wonderful addition to any home.

sunroom used as family game room for entertaining with gable roof

In conclusion, a shaded room is a great option for homeowners looking to add value, functionality, and enjoyment to their homes. It is customizable, affordable, and can be tailored to fit your style. Whether you choose fiberglass or aluminum screen material, you can create a beautiful screened porch that will provide years of enjoyment. Additionally, the many decorative options available make it easy to personalize the space.

Last Updated:March 28, 2024