Key factors that affect the cost
Whether you’re building new or screening an existing patio, there are several factors that will affect your budget.
Location
You could spend more depending on where you live and the type of living space you want to create. For example, Archadeck of Kansas City, which builds outdoor living spaces throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area, including Jackson County, Missouri, says the average cost to build a screened porch in their area starts at $25,000.
In comparison, James Moylan of Design Builders, Inc., a licensed, bonded, and insured contractor in Bethesda, Maryland, estimates most projects run between $60,000 to $100,000.
“What we build is essentially an addition that doesn’t have walls,” Moylan says.
Materials
The type of materials will have a considerable impact on your budget. Here’s a breakdown of some materials commonly used to build a screened-in porch.
Flooring
Roofing
Posts, beams, and railings
Note: These options will vary in cost by material and architectural style (such as Colonial, Farmhouse, Decorative, or Craftsman).
Screens
Moylan’s company uses Screeneze, a warrantied system available to professional contractors and installers that uses an aluminum base, vinyl caps, and no staples or splining. Beyond such an integrated system, prices vary for the type of screen mesh, as well as other features:
- Aluminum mesh: About $2.50 to $4 per square foot.
- Fiberglass: About $4 to $5 per square foot.
- Sun-blocking: About $4 to $5 per square foot.
- Retractable: About $20 to $30 per square foot.
You can also find DIY screened-in porch kits with everything you need to complete your project. Companies like Screen House, Eze Breeze Direct, and Screen Tight can help you create the perfect screened-in porch when you call for a free quote.
Door
If you plan to have a screen door leading from the porch to the yard, expect to pay an average of $300, depending on the door’s style. You also might want to install or revamp a door leading from the house to the porch for about $300 to $600.
Labor
You can save big by building your own porch. Home Depot estimates that if you’re just adding screening to an existing porch, it can be done between 2 to 4 hours.
However, hiring a professional means paying $2 per square foot to screen on an existing porch. If built from scratch, you’re looking at $72 to $82 per square foot.
Square footage
If you entertain a lot, Moylan recommends building a space that’s either 15′ x 20′ or 16′ x 16′, which will give you plenty of space for outdoor dining furniture. However, the porch you design can be as large or small as you’d like. Just remember that the size will impact the cost of materials and labor.
Note: Some homeowner associations and municipalities have specific rules regarding building a screened-in porch, so before you do anything, check with them first and get any necessary permits.
