Screened-In Porch Costs and Considerations

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

Typical Cost

Average Cost Range
$2,000–$2,800 for a 200-square-foot screened-in porch.
Costs can rise to $10,000 or more for larger or custom builds.
Per Square Foot
New build: $25–$120 per square foot.
Adding a screen to an existing porch: Much cheaper.
DIY Savings
Save $2 per square foot on labor by building it yourself.

Cost by Porch Size

| Size | Average Cost |
|----------|------------------|
| 12x12 | $860 |
| 14x16 | $1,300 |
| 20x20 | $2,400 |

Cost Factors

Existing Foundation
Screening an existing porch costs less than building from scratch.
Location
Geographic location impacts labor and material costs.
Off-season construction may reduce costs.
Size and Complexity
Larger porches and complex designs (e.g., second-floor builds, grading land) cost more.
Materials
Affordable: Aluminum and fiberglass screens.
Premium: Solar or retractable screens, pressure-treated wood, hardwood flooring.
Add-Ons
Ceiling fans, fire pits, electrical wiring increase costs.
Roof Type
Common types include shed, gable, or hip roofs.

Budget Examples

Under $2,000: Aluminum screens, concrete floors, and DIY efforts.
$2,000–$3,000: Standard 200-square-foot porch with aluminum or fiberglass screens.
$3,000–$5,000: Upgraded materials like stained tiles or cedar flooring.
$5,000–$10,000+: Custom porches, retractable screens, hardwood floors, and asphalt roof extensions.

Material Costs

| Material | Cost |
|----------------------|--------------------------|
| Aluminum Screen | $5–$7 per square foot |
| Fiberglass Screen | $4.50–$5.50 per square foot |
| Solar Screen | $5.50–$7 per square foot |
| Retractable Screen | $2,000–$4,000 per unit |

Screen Door: $300–$2,000 depending on material and quality.

Flooring Options:
- Affordable: Concrete.
- Moderate: Slate tile, cedar.
- Premium: Brazilian Ipe, stone, or pressure-treated wood.

DIY vs. Professional Build

DIY Kits: Start at $2,000 and include screens, posts, railing, and doors.
Labor Savings: Around $2 per square foot for DIY projects.
Professional Builds: Faster and often better-quality finishes, especially for complex designs.

Additional Costs

Steps and Staircases
Simple concrete steps: $300.
Stoop with multiple stairs: Up to $1,900.
Roof Options
Asphalt: $16–$30 per square foot.
Aluminum patio cover: $14–$22 per square foot.
Permits
Required in some areas: $50–$200.

FAQs

Does a screened-in porch add value?
Adds up to 84% ROI, especially in warm, buggy climates.
How long do they last?
6–8 years with proper maintenance.
Can you screen an existing deck?
Yes, and it’s often more cost-effective.
What projects pair well with this?
Patio upgrades, walkways, or landscaping enhancements.

Pro Tip: Hire a local screen porch builder during the off-season for lower costs and faster scheduling.