Design Your Dream Home with Screen Porch House Plans

A screen porch is a covered outdoor living space that is enclosed by screens to keep out insects and other pests. Screen porches are a popular addition to homes in warm climates, as they provide a comfortable place to relax and enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about bugs. Screen porches can also be used as an extra living space, a playroom for children, or a dining area.

When designing a house plan with a screen porch, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you need to decide where the porch will be located. The best location for a screen porch is typically on the side or back of the house, where it will be protected from the wind and sun. You also need to decide how large the porch will be. The size of the porch will depend on how you plan to use it. If you plan to use it as an extra living space, you will need a larger porch. If you just want a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, a smaller porch will suffice.

Once you have decided on the location and size of the porch, you need to choose the type of screening you want to use. There are two main types of screening: fiberglass and aluminum. Fiberglass screening is less expensive than aluminum screening, but it is not as durable. Aluminum screening is more durable than fiberglass screening, but it is also more expensive. You also need to decide whether you want to use a retractable screen or a fixed screen. Retractable screens can be rolled up when you don’t need them, which can be convenient if you want to open up the porch to the outdoors. Fixed screens are not retractable, but they are more durable than retractable screens.

Here are 9 important points about house plans with screen porches:

Define the purpose and function of the screen porch.
Determine the location of the screen porch.
Decide on the size of the screen porch.
Choose the type of screening material.
Select a retractable or fixed screen.
Consider the orientation of the screen porch.
Think about the ventilation and airflow.
Plan for electrical outlets and lighting.
Consider the maintenance and upkeep of the screen porch.

By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and functional screen porch that will add value to your home.

Define the purpose and function of the screen porch.

The purpose of a screen porch is to create a space that is both comfortable and protected from the elements. Screen porches are typically used for relaxing, entertaining, or dining. They can also be used as a playroom for children or as a workspace. Screen porches are a great way to extend your living space outdoors and enjoy the fresh air without having to worry about insects or other pests.

The function of a screen porch is to provide a barrier between the indoors and outdoors. Screens keep out insects and other pests, while still allowing air to circulate. This makes screen porches a great place to enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about being bitten or stung. Screen porches can also help to keep your home cooler in the summer by blocking out the sun’s heat.

When designing a house plan with a screen porch, it is important to consider the purpose and function of the space. The size, location, and features of the screen porch should be tailored to your specific needs. For example, if you plan to use the screen porch as an extra living space, you will need a larger porch with comfortable furniture. If you just want a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, a smaller porch with a few chairs will suffice.

Determine the location of the screen porch.

The location of your screen porch will depend on several factors, including the orientation of your home, the size of your yard, and your personal preferences. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a location for your screen porch:

Orientation: The orientation of your home will determine how much sun your screen porch will receive. If you want a porch that is shaded from the sun, choose a location on the north or east side of your home. If you want a porch that is sunny, choose a location on the south or west side of your home.
Size: The size of your yard will also determine the location of your screen porch. If you have a small yard, you may want to choose a location that is close to the house. If you have a large yard, you may have more flexibility in choosing a location.
Personal preferences: Ultimately, the location of your screen porch should be based on your personal preferences. Consider how you plan to use the porch and choose a location that will be most convenient for you. For example, if you plan to use the porch for entertaining, you may want to choose a location that is close to the kitchen.

Once you have considered these factors, you can start to narrow down your choices for the location of your screen porch. It is a good idea to visit different locations at different times of the day to get a sense of how the sun and shade will affect the porch. You should also consider the views from the porch and how the porch will fit into the overall design of your home.

Decide on the size of the screen porch.

The size of your screen porch will depend on how you plan to use it. If you plan to use it as an extra living space, you will need a larger porch with comfortable furniture. If you just want a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, a smaller porch with a few chairs will suffice.

Consider the number of people who will be using the porch. If you plan to entertain guests, you will need a larger porch with more seating. If you just want a place to relax with your family, a smaller porch will be fine.
Think about the furniture you want to put on the porch. If you want to have a dining table and chairs, you will need a larger porch. If you just want a few chairs and a coffee table, a smaller porch will be fine.
Consider the size of your yard. If you have a small yard, you may want to choose a smaller porch. If you have a large yard, you may have more flexibility in choosing a larger porch.
Consider the overall design of your home. The size of your screen porch should be in proportion to the size of your home. A large porch on a small house will look out of place. A small porch on a large house will look too small.

Once you have considered all of these factors, you can start to decide on the size of your screen porch. It is important to choose a size that is right for your needs and your home.

Choose the type of screening material.

There are two main types of screening material: fiberglass and aluminum. Fiberglass screening is less expensive than aluminum screening, but it is not as durable. Aluminum screening is more durable than fiberglass screening, but it is also more expensive.

Fiberglass screening is made of fine strands of glass that are woven together. It is a good choice for areas that are not exposed to high winds or heavy rain. Fiberglass screening is also a good choice for areas where there is a lot of sunlight, as it will not fade or discolor as easily as aluminum screening.

Aluminum screening is made of thin sheets of aluminum that are perforated with small holes. It is a good choice for areas that are exposed to high winds or heavy rain. Aluminum screening is also a good choice for areas where there is a lot of salt spray, as it will not rust.

When choosing a screening material, it is important to consider the climate in your area and the location of the screen porch. If you live in an area with high winds or heavy rain, you will need to choose a more durable screening material, such as aluminum. If you live in an area with a lot of sunlight, you will need to choose a screening material that will not fade or discolor, such as fiberglass.

In addition to fiberglass and aluminum, there are also a number of other screening materials available, such as vinyl, stainless steel, and copper. These materials are all more expensive than fiberglass and aluminum, but they are also more durable and offer a number of other benefits.

Select a retractable or fixed screen.

Retractable screens are screens that can be rolled up or down to open or close the porch. Fixed screens are screens that are permanently attached to the porch.

Retractable screens
Retractable screens are a good choice for porches that are used seasonally or for porches that are exposed to high winds. Retractable screens can be rolled up when the porch is not in use, which can help to protect them from damage. Retractable screens are also a good choice for porches that are small, as they can be rolled up to open up the space.
Fixed screens
Fixed screens are a good choice for porches that are used year-round or for porches that are not exposed to high winds. Fixed screens are more durable than retractable screens, and they do not need to be rolled up and down, which can be a convenience. Fixed screens are also a good choice for porches that are large, as they can provide a more open and airy feel.

When choosing between a retractable screen and a fixed screen, it is important to consider how you plan to use the porch and the climate in your area. If you live in an area with high winds, you will need to choose a retractable screen. If you plan to use the porch year-round, you may want to choose a fixed screen. Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of screen is right for you is to visit a local home improvement store and talk to a sales associate.

Consider the orientation of the screen porch.

The orientation of your screen porch will determine how much sun your porch will receive. If you want a porch that is shaded from the sun, choose a location on the north or east side of your home. If you want a porch that is sunny, choose a location on the south or west side of your home.

North-facing porch:
A north-facing porch will be shaded from the sun for most of the day. This can be a good choice for porches that are used for relaxing or dining. North-facing porches are also a good choice for people who live in hot climates, as they will provide a cool and shady place to escape the heat.
East-facing porch:
An east-facing porch will receive morning sun and afternoon shade. This can be a good choice for porches that are used for breakfast or lunch. East-facing porches are also a good choice for people who live in cold climates, as they will receive some sun during the winter months.
South-facing porch:
A south-facing porch will receive the most sun throughout the day. This can be a good choice for porches that are used for sunbathing or entertaining. South-facing porches are also a good choice for people who live in cold climates, as they will receive the most sunlight during the winter months.
West-facing porch:
A west-facing porch will receive afternoon sun and evening shade. This can be a good choice for porches that are used for relaxing or watching the sunset. West-facing porches are also a good choice for people who live in hot climates, as they will provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.

When choosing the orientation of your screen porch, it is important to consider how you plan to use the porch and the climate in your area. If you live in a hot climate, you may want to choose a north-facing or east-facing porch. If you live in a cold climate, you may want to choose a south-facing or west-facing porch.

Think about the ventilation and airflow.

Proper ventilation is essential for any enclosed space, and screen porches are no exception. Good ventilation will help to keep the porch cool and comfortable, even on hot days. It will also help to prevent the buildup of moisture, which can lead to mold and mildew.

There are a few things you can do to improve the ventilation in your screen porch. First, make sure that there are plenty of windows and doors. This will allow air to circulate freely throughout the space. You may also want to consider installing a ceiling fan to help circulate the air.

In addition to windows and doors, you can also improve ventilation by using screens that allow for airflow. There are a variety of screening materials available that offer different levels of airflow. Be sure to choose a screening material that will allow for adequate airflow while still keeping out insects.

Finally, you can also improve ventilation by planting trees and shrubs around your porch. Trees and shrubs will help to shade the porch and keep it cool. They will also help to create a natural breeze that will circulate the air.

By following these tips, you can improve the ventilation in your screen porch and create a more comfortable and enjoyable space.

Plan for electrical outlets and lighting.

Electrical outlets and lighting are essential for any screen porch. Outlets will allow you to plug in appliances, such as fans, heaters, or a sound system. Lighting will allow you to use the porch at night or in low-light conditions.

Place outlets in convenient locations.
When planning for electrical outlets, think about where you will be using appliances and electronics. Place outlets near seating areas, work surfaces, and other areas where you will need them. You may also want to consider installing an outlet on the ceiling for a ceiling fan.
Choose the right type of lighting.
There are a variety of lighting options available for screen porches. You can choose from traditional incandescent bulbs, fluorescent bulbs, or LED bulbs. LED bulbs are the most energy-efficient option and they last longer than other types of bulbs.
Install dimmers.
Dimmers allow you to control the brightness of the lighting in your screen porch. This is a great way to create a more comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
Consider outdoor lighting.
If you plan to use your screen porch at night, you will need to install outdoor lighting. Outdoor lighting can help to illuminate the area around your porch and make it safer for guests to enter and exit.

By following these tips, you can plan for electrical outlets and lighting that will make your screen porch more comfortable and enjoyable.

Consider the maintenance and upkeep of the screen porch.

Screen porches require regular maintenance and upkeep to keep them in good condition. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Clean the screens regularly.
Screens can get dirty and clogged with dust, pollen, and other debris. It is important to clean the screens regularly to keep them clear and allow for proper airflow. You can clean the screens with a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner.
Inspect the screens for damage.
Screens can be damaged by wind, hail, and other elements. It is important to inspect the screens regularly for any damage. If you find any damage, you should repair it immediately to prevent further damage.
Clean the floor and ceiling.
The floor and ceiling of the screen porch can get dirty over time. It is important to clean the floor and ceiling regularly to keep them looking their best. You can clean the floor and ceiling with a broom, a mop, or a pressure washer.
Inspect the structure of the porch.
The structure of the screen porch should be inspected regularly for any damage. This includes the roof, the walls, and the foundation. If you find any damage, you should repair it immediately to prevent further damage.

By following these tips, you can keep your screen porch in good condition and extend its lifespan.