Screening your porch can make it a comfortable and calming outdoor space you that shields from the hot weather or insects. Even during rain, you can enjoy a cup of coffee while sitting on your porch while your kids can play without fearing bugs or insects. While screening your porch sounds like a tedious job that might put a dent in your wallet, it isn’t. You can screen your porch yourself, and it’s also not an expensive process. In this article, we are going to highlight how you can screen a porch and make comfortable outdoor seating for yourself and your guests.
See also: How to repair window screen mesh?
Steps to screen your porch
Plan and prepare
The first thing that you should analyse is the size and shape of your porch. Consider its measurements and your needs before deciding on a screening material. You also need to decide the amount of sun exposure you want while keeping in mind the general climatic conditions in your area.
While deciding on the screening material, make sure you choose a good quality screening material that has longer durability and is resistant to harsh weather. Some common screening materials are fibreglass, aluminium, and polyester.
Materials and tools needed
- Screening material
- Screen frame and spline.
- Corner and frame connectors
- Measuring tape
- Screws and screwdriver
- Door and window hardware
- Utility knife
- Screen roller
Source: Pinterest (Taste of the Frontier)
Start framing the porch
Framing the porch is important as it decides the structure of the screens and is crucial for a secure installation.
The first step here is to measure your porch dimensions accurately. You have to cut the screening material according to your porch opening while leaving enough to mitre the corners at a 45-degree angle for a finished look.
The next step is to assemble the frame with the help of frame and corner connectors. You can use screws to secure it in its place. For a relatively larger porch opening, you can add cross braces as they add to the durability and secure the frame properly.
Install screening material
Start by spreading the screen material over the frame and press it into the groove of the frame in one corner, and then slowly stretch the screen towards the other end. Be careful, as it’s easy to get wrinkles. Tuck the screening material at the other corner, too, and once it is properly installed, you can trim the excess material with a knife to achieve cleaner edges.
Addition of doors or windows
Doors and windows make the screened porch look sophisticated and add to the overall comfort too. If you wish to install doors and windows, here is how you can do it yourself:
Installing doors
Cut the door frame according to the measurements and install it with the help of hinges. Make sure it makes swift movements and doesn’t get stuck while opening. You can add a handle for easy accessibility.
Installing windows
Installing windows is as easy as installing doors. You need to cut the appropriate measurements, then, with the help of necessary hardware, install the window frames and add handles for opening and closing.
Final touches
- You can consider painting or staining the wood to match the aesthetics of your home and achieve a cleaner and finished look.
- You can decorate your porch with plants or add furniture for outdoor seating. You can make a comfortable hang-out spot with the right furniture that your guests would love!
- You can also add trim pieces along the edges of the porch to achieve a better look.
How to maintain the porch area?
- Check for regular wear and tear and repair when necessary. Make sure there is no rust or any other damage caused by insects, as it can lead to greater damage if not checked early.
- Clean the screens regularly with soap.
- Check the frame for any wear and tear.
- Make sure the hardware functions well; for example, handles tend to rust over time, and you can use proper lubricants to prevent it from happening.
FAQs
Can I replace the screening material if it gets damaged?
Yes, replacing the screen is quite an easy process. With the help of a screen roller, you can remove the old screen and replace it with a new one.
What is the appropriate weather to install a screen?
There’s no such thing as appropriate weather for screen installation, but you should avoid installing it in extreme words as it makes the installation harder.
How should I prevent my screen from tearing up?
To prevent the screen from tearing up, keep it away from sharp objects.
Is it necessary to call a professional to install a screen?
You may call for help only if you are unsure of the process, else not needed.
How long does it take to screen a porch?
It depends on the porch size and can vary from two days to a week.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |