What Does It Really Cost to Add a Screened Porch to an Existing Deck?

The cost of screened porch on existing deck projects in 2025 typically falls in these ranges:

Project TypeTypical Cost RangeDIY screening kit (existing structure)$2,000 - $4,000Professional screening (existing deck)$2,000 - $5,800New screened porch (built from scratch)$10,000 - $35,000+Per square foot (screening existing)$10 - $25/sq ftPer square foot (new construction)$50 - $175/sq ft

Note: Costs vary by size, materials, structural condition, and location. Florida coastal projects often run higher due to hurricane engineering requirements.

Using your existing deck as a foundation can save you up to 50% compared to building from scratch — but only if the structure is in good shape. That's the part most online cost guides skip over.

Here's the reality: a simple screening job on a sound, covered deck can cost as little as $2,000. But if your deck needs structural repairs, a new roof, permits, or electrical work, that number climbs fast. One Maryland contractor reported average screened porch projects running $65,000 once full construction requirements kicked in.

The gap between the low estimates you find online and what you'll actually pay comes down to one thing — what condition your existing deck is in and what your local building codes require.

I'm Cody Lafferty, and with over 10 years of hands-on experience in aluminum and screening across Florida, I've seen how widely the cost of screened porch on existing deck projects can vary based on structural integrity, materials, and local code requirements. In this guide, I'll walk you through everything that drives the price so you can plan your project with confidence.

Average Cost of Screened Porch on Existing Deck in 2025

When we talk about the cost of screened porch on existing deck conversions, the first thing we have to distinguish is whether you are just adding "mesh to posts" or if you are building a structural roof and walls on top of an open timber deck.

If you already have a covered porch and just need to add screening, you are looking at a much more affordable project. According to 2025 cost data from Angi, the average cost to screen in an existing porch is about $2,800, with a typical range between $2,000 and $4,000. For a standard 200-square-foot space, this averages out to about $10 to $25 per square foot.

However, many of our neighbors in Melbourne and Titusville have open decks. To turn that into a screened porch, you need a roof. This is where the price jumps. A Screen porch enclosure that requires a new roof and structural framing can range from $10,000 to $35,000.

DIY Kits vs. Professional Installation

For those who are handy, a DIY kit can be a tempting way to save.

• DIY Kits: Usually range from $2,000 to $4,000 for materials. These are best for existing covered structures where you are simply "filling the holes" with screen.
• Professional Installation: For an existing 200 sq ft porch, labor usually runs about $2 per square foot for the screening alone. Total professional projects for a simple screen-in average $2,000 to $5,000.

In Florida, "simple" is rarely the word we use because of our unique weather. Budget transparency is key; we always recommend homeowners set aside a 10% to 20% contingency fund for "surprises" like wood rot or required code upgrades.

Key Factors Influencing Your Screening Budget

Every deck is different, and several "invisible" factors will dictate your final quote.

1. Deck Size: This is the most obvious factor. A 12x12 porch might be cozy, but it often feels cramped once you add furniture. We often suggest a 16x20 or 16x16 footprint for a functional sitting and dining area.
2. Structural Integrity: This is the big one. Can your deck support a screen enclosure? Adding a roof and screen walls adds significant weight (dead load) and wind resistance (wind load). If your existing deck was only built to hold people and a grill, the footings might not be deep enough or wide enough to support a roof.
3. Material Choices: Pressure-treated wood is the budget-friendly choice, but aluminum framing is the gold standard in Brevard County because it doesn't rot, warp, or require painting.
4. Roof Complexity: Matching your home’s existing roofline (like a gable or hip roof) looks better and adds more value but costs significantly more than a simple shed roof or a flat aluminum pan roof.
5. Site Preparation: If your deck is low to the ground, we may need to excavate or clear debris to ensure proper airflow and prevent moisture buildup under your new porch.

Aluminum Screen Systems for Existing Deck Conversions

Because we specialize exclusively in aluminum screen enclosures, the system used on your porch is engineered for durability, structure, and long-term performance — not just the screen material itself.

Standard Aluminum Screen System

Our aluminum-framed screen systems are the most common solution for enclosing an existing deck. They provide:

• Structural strength and clean sightlines
• Corrosion-resistant aluminum framing
• Long-term durability in Florida’s humidity and coastal conditions
• Professionally tensioned screen installation to prevent sagging

Heavy-Duty Aluminum Framing

For larger spans or upgraded performance, reinforced aluminum framing allows for wider openings and enhanced wind resistance. This creates a stronger enclosure system while maintaining an open, unobstructed feel.

Insulated Roof Panel Integration

If you're converting your deck into a more usable outdoor space, aluminum systems can also incorporate insulated roof panels. This reduces heat transfer, improves comfort, and extends seasonal usability.

Picture Window Panels

For homeowners wanting maximum visibility, aluminum picture window sections reduce vertical framing and create wide, open views without sacrificing structural integrity.

Labor Rates and DIY vs. Professional Installation

Labor for a new build can reach $70 per hour. When screening an existing deck, the labor is usually calculated by the square foot or as a flat project fee. According to the Labor statistics for construction trades, specialized aluminum and screening labor in Florida reflects the high demand for outdoor living.

While DIY screening might take a weekend, a professional team can often finish a screen-in of an existing porch in just a few hours. More importantly, Premium screen porch services include things a DIYer might miss: permit handling, ensuring hurricane clips are properly installed, and verifying that the structure meets the latest Florida Building Code.

Hidden Expenses and Structural Realities

Many homeowners are surprised by the "extra" costs that pop up during the planning phase.

• Permit Fees: In areas like Palm Bay or Cocoa Beach, a screened porch is considered a structural addition. Building permit cost insights show these typically average $800, but can range from $100 to $3,900 depending on the complexity and local municipality.
• Electrical Wiring: You’ll likely want a ceiling fan and at least two outlets. Budget $250 to $700 for basic electrical work.
• Siding and Flashing: When we attach a new roof to your house, we often have to remove siding and install flashing to prevent water from leaking into your home’s walls. This is one of the 16 things to consider before building.
• Yard Restoration: Construction crews, even the careful ones, can be tough on grass. Budget $500 to $1,500 for re-sodding or landscaping repairs after the heavy lifting is done.

When to Screen vs. Rebuild: Assessing the Cost of Screened Porch on Existing Deck

We get this question a lot: "Can I just use my old deck?" If your deck is more than 10-15 years old, the answer is often no. Timber decks in Florida face a brutal cycle of humidity and UV rays. Building a $20,000 porch on top of a rotting $5,000 frame is a recipe for disaster.

If your supports are rotting or your framing doesn't meet modern codes, it’s actually cheaper in the long run to tear it down and build new. However, if the structure is sound, you can expect an average of 75% return on investment data when you go to sell. In the Space Coast market, a bug-free outdoor space is a massive selling point.

Regional Pricing and Value-Added Features

Living in Florida means we have to play by different rules. Deck screen enclosures in Florida must be engineered to withstand hurricane-force winds. This isn't just a safety suggestion; it's the law.

• Hurricane Codes: In coastal areas like Satellite Beach or Merritt Island, we use heavier aluminum extrusions and specialized "hurricane clips" to ensure the roof stays attached during a storm. This can add $2,000 to $5,000 to a project compared to inland builds.
• Temperature Reduction: A high-quality screen enclosure can actually reduce the temperature on your porch by 10 to 15 degrees. This makes your outdoor space usable even in the middle of a July afternoon in Melbourne.
• Value-Added Features:
  • Ceiling Fans: A must-have for Florida. Expect to pay $100 to $500 per fan plus installation.
  • Lighting: LED puck lights or string lights can be integrated into the aluminum beams for a clean look.
  • Outdoor Kitchens: If your deck is large enough, adding a small grill station can increase the project cost by $6,000 to $25,000 but dramatically boosts your home's "wow" factor.

Frequently Asked Questions about Deck Screening

How much does it cost to screen a 200 sq ft deck?

If the deck already has a roof, you are looking at $2,000 to $5,000 for professional screening and framing. If you need to build the roof and the screen walls from scratch on an existing deck, the price typically starts around $10,000 and can go up to $20,000 depending on the materials used. For a deep dive, check out our Cost to screen in porch complete guide.

Does a screened porch count toward home square footage?

Generally, no. In real estate appraisals, a screened porch is considered "unfinished" space because it isn't climate-controlled. However, it significantly boosts "curb appeal" and usable living space. According to ROI expectations, you can recover a large portion of the cost when selling because buyers in Florida prioritize outdoor living.

How long do porch screens typically last?

In our salty Space Coast air, standard fiberglass screens usually last 6 to 8 years before they become brittle or begin to sag. The aluminum structure itself, however, can last 50 to 100 years with minimal maintenance. We discuss these long-term trade-offs in The costs of a screen porch over time.

Conclusion

Adding a screened porch to your existing deck is one of the most rewarding home improvements you can make. It turns a hot, bug-infested deck into a true "outdoor living room" where you can enjoy your morning coffee or an evening breeze without being eaten alive by mosquitoes.

At Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, we’ve spent over 30 years helping our neighbors in Brevard and Indian River Counties maximize their outdoor spaces. Whether you’re in a townhome in Viera or a ranch in Grant Valkaria, we focus on quality craftsmanship that stands up to the Florida elements.

If you’re ready to stop dreaming and start building, we’d love to help you navigate the cost of screened porch on existing deck projects. Get a quote for screened-in porches today, and let’s turn your deck into a paradise.