Enclosed Porch

Making your existing porch into an enclosed porch could be a simple, cost-effective way to gain the space you want.

Spring is a great season to roof over your deck, turn it into a much more comfortable living space, make it a porch. You might even choose to wrap the porch in screens to keep the bees, flies and mosquitoes away.

If you do, you will be adding value and more usable living space to your home for a very small investment. I know of 2 families who did this and are ecstatic with their three-season room.

Adding a ceiling fan will keep it cool during those hot summer evenings. An outdoor fireplace could provide warmth on the cooler evenings. Picture yourself listening to the birds singing in the morning as you sip your tea or coffee while watching the rising sun blink through the trees.

Clean up of any porch is simple. Just hose down the porch, put the ceiling fan on to dry it and you're done.

Assuming you have the space, you should divide your porch into a sitting area with a small low table for drinks, a table and chairs to eat or play, and the BBQ grill. This can be your main cooking and living area all through spring, summer and fall.

During the winter, the porch is where the snow gear (like boots and sleds) is kept, and where you can keep the cold foods before your large holiday meals if the refrigerator is overflowing.

As you can see, this is a good way to gain living space without reducing the yard. Be sure that it will not detract from the style of your home. Enclosing a porch on some bungalows or Victorians could be a mistake if it destroys much of the home’s sought-after charm.

Lots Of Options

Side porches can be easily converted into home offices, playrooms, or den/family rooms. Rear porches are ideal for adding space to extend your kitchen. With energy efficient windows, any porch can be converted into a light-filled “Florida” room that’s enclosed for year-round enjoyment.

Heat For A Fully Enclosed Porch

If you decide to go with a fully enclosed porch, an important consideration is the heating and cooling system. While some homes may have systems that can accommodate additional rooms, others may need a supplemental system.

Baseboard heating is an option. Although it is easy to install, this type of heating is expensive to operate. Consider a wood-burning stove or outdoor fireplace. Pay attention to your budget and know what all this will cost BEFORE you get started.

An open porch is obviously going to be less expensive than a porch that's enclosed. On the other hand, an enclosed porch will add more value to your home, and you'll be able to get more enjoyment out of it. The specific costs will vary according to the size of the porch, and where the home is located.

If you want more information, or have a question about an enclosed porch, contact me here.

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