Understanding the Investment in a Screened-In Porch

The cost to install screened in porch ranges from $2,000 to $4,000 when adding screens to an existing covered porch, but jumps to $25–$120 per square foot—potentially exceeding $40,000—when building a complete structure from the ground up.

Quick Cost Overview:

Project TypeCost RangePer Square FootDIY screening kit (existing porch)$2,000–$4,000$10–$25Professional screening (existing)$2,000–$4,000$10–$25New basic construction$8,000–$15,000$25–$50Premium custom build$25,000–$40,000+$60–$120

A screened-in porch is one of those home upgrades that makes you wonder how you ever lived without it. You're suddenly able to enjoy fresh air and Florida breezes without swatting mosquitoes or chasing napkins across the yard. It transforms an underutilized outdoor area into functional living space—perfect for morning coffee, family dinners, or simply relaxing after work.

But the price difference between projects can feel overwhelming. Screening an existing covered patio might cost just a few thousand dollars, while building a new 16x16 porch with premium materials can easily reach $45,000 or more. The gap comes down to whether you're working with an existing structure or starting from scratch, plus your choices in materials, features, and finishes.

Beyond the upfront investment, homeowners typically see a 75%–84% return when they sell, especially in warm climates where outdoor living matters most. The key is understanding what drives costs up or down—and how to plan a project that fits your budget without sacrificing quality or durability.

As Cody Lafferty — Founder & CEO of Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, I've spent over three decades helping Melbourne and Brevard County homeowners steer the cost to install screened in porch projects, from simple screen replacements to full custom builds designed for Florida's coastal climate. Every project presents unique challenges—existing slab constraints, HOA requirements, drainage considerations—and transparent pricing paired with hands-on oversight helps families make confident decisions about their outdoor spaces.

Average Cost to Install Screened In Porch by Project Type

When we talk to homeowners in Palm Bay or Titusville about their budget, the first thing we look at is the starting point. Are we enclosing an existing space, or are we breaking ground? The cost to install screened in porch varies wildly based on this single factor.

For those lucky enough to have an existing covered patio or deck with a solid roof overhead, the project is significantly more affordable. Most homeowners in this situation spend between $2,000 and $4,000. This covers the aluminum framing, the screen doors, and the mesh itself. If you are looking for More info about screen porches, you'll find that these "enclosure-only" projects are the fastest way to add value to your home.

However, if you are starting with just a patch of grass in your backyard in Melbourne Beach, you are looking at a full construction project. This involves pouring a concrete slab, framing a roof, tying that roof into your home’s existing roofline, and then adding the screens. These custom builds typically range from $25 to $120 per square foot. A standard 12x12 new build might start around $8,000 for basic finishes, while a large, premium 20x20 space can easily cross the $40,000 mark.

Screening an Existing Porch or Deck

If your home already has a covered porch, you are essentially just "walling it in" with screens. This is a very cost-effective way to upgrade. In 2025, professional labor for this type of work typically runs about $2 per square foot for the installation of the screen itself, though the total project cost includes the aluminum extrusions and hardware.

According to the Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, labor rates for specialty contractors can vary, but for a simple screening job on an existing structure, a skilled team can often complete the work in a single day—sometimes in as little as a few hours if using high-efficiency systems. The framing requirements for these projects are usually lighter than a full build, as the weight of the roof is already supported by existing columns.

Building a New Screened-In Porch from Scratch

Building from scratch is a different beast entirely. We aren't just installers at this point; we are builders. This project requires a foundation, which can cost between $4 and $14 per square foot just for the concrete work.

Structural integrity is our top priority here in Brevard and Indian River Counties. Because we face high winds and hurricane seasons, a new porch must be engineered to meet strict Florida Building Codes. This includes heavy-duty roof integration and reinforced tie-ins to the main house. While a $40,000+ price tag might seem high, it reflects the cost of architectural plans, permits, and the heavy-duty aluminum or wood framing required to keep your family safe. You can learn more about these structural nuances in our guide on How Much to Screen In a Porch.

Key Factors Influencing Your Total Investment

No two porches are the same, and neither are their price tags. Aside from the project type, several variables will shift your estimate.

• Size and Square Footage: This is the most obvious factor. A 12x12 porch (144 sq. ft.) is great for a bistro set and two chairs, but a 20x20 porch (400 sq. ft.) allows for a full dining table and a lounge area. As the footprint grows, so does the cost of the slab, the roofing materials, and the linear feet of screening.
• Project Complexity: Is the porch on the ground level or the second story? Second-story builds require scaffolding and more complex structural support, which can increase labor costs by 20% or more.
• Existing Foundation: If we can use an existing concrete pad, you save thousands. If the pad is cracked or unlevel, we may need to repair or replace it.

When planning your materials, many homeowners check Product and Supplies Data: Home Depot to get a baseline for lumber or basic screening kits. However, for Florida homes, we often recommend professional-grade aluminum systems that resist the salt air better than standard big-box retail options.

Material Choices and Screen Types

The type of mesh you choose is the "skin" of your porch, and it plays a huge role in your daily comfort.

• Fiberglass Screen: The most common and affordable option ($0.25–$0.50 per sq. ft.). It’s flexible and easy to install but can be prone to tearing if you have active pets.
• Aluminum Mesh: Slightly more expensive ($0.35–$0.70 per sq. ft.), this is more durable and won't sag as easily as fiberglass.
• Pet-Resistant Mesh: A must-have for dog and cat owners. It’s a heavy-duty vinyl-coated polyester that is seven times stronger than standard mesh.
• Solar Screens: These block up to 90% of UV rays, which is a lifesaver for south-facing porches in Cocoa Beach or Merritt Island. They keep the porch cooler and prevent your furniture from fading.
• Motorized Retractable Units: For the ultimate luxury, these screens roll up at the touch of a button. Expect to pay $2,000 to $4,000 per unit.

Labor and Regional Pricing Variations

In our neck of the woods—from Cape Canaveral down to Vero Beach—labor rates reflect the specialized knowledge required for Florida construction. General construction labor for complex porch builds often averages around $70 per hour.

When we calculate your cost to install screened in porch, we also factor in contractor overhead, which typically adds 13% to 22% to the base material and labor costs. This ensures the project is fully insured and managed by a professional who understands local wind codes. You can see how these labor costs are structured nationally by reviewing the Employer Costs for Employee Compensation data, but Florida’s stringent building requirements often necessitate a higher level of expertise.

Additional Expenses and Luxury Add-Ons

The "sticker price" of a screened-in porch often excludes the smaller details that turn a screen box into a true living room. It's important to budget for these "hidden" costs so they don't surprise you mid-project.

• Permit Fees: In Brevard County, permits for a screened-in porch typically range from $100 to $300, but they can be higher if you are adding electrical or a fireplace.
• Land Surveying: If you are building a new structure, you may need a fresh survey to ensure you aren't encroaching on easements. This usually costs around $500.
• Electrical Wiring: Most people want at least one ceiling fan and a couple of outlets for lamps or phone chargers. An electrician will typically charge $50 to $100 per hour, and the total for a porch usually lands between $400 and $1,200.
• Siding Modifications: If we are tying a new roof into your house, we may need to remove and replace siding. This is a common area for "surprise repairs," especially if we find old water damage behind the boards.

For a deeper dive into these variables, check out our article on The Costs of a Screen Porch.

Common Add-Ons and Their Cost to Install Screened In Porch

If you want to go beyond the basics, consider these popular upgrades:

• Ceiling Fans: Essential for the Florida humidity. Expect to pay $100–$500 per fan, plus installation.
• Outdoor Kitchens: These can range from a simple grill station ($6,000) to a full chef's setup with a pizza oven and fridge ($26,000+).
• Fireplaces: A gas or wood-burning fireplace adds a massive "wow" factor and extends your porch use into our (admittedly brief) winter months. These average around $3,000 to $15,000.

Permits, Foundations, and Structural Requirements

Building codes are the "boring" part of the project that we take very seriously. In Florida, your porch isn't just a screen; it's a structural addition that must withstand high-velocity hurricane zones (HVHZ) in some areas.

If we are pouring a new concrete slab, you're looking at $4–$14 per square foot. We also have to consider stairs and railings if your porch is elevated. A screen is not a safety barrier; if your porch floor is more than 30 inches above the ground, code requires a structural railing. For local specifics, read our guide on How to Build a Screened-In Porch Brevard County.

Long-Term Value: ROI and Maintenance Costs

Is a screened-in porch worth it? From a financial standpoint, the answer is a resounding yes. Most homeowners see a 75% to 84% return on their investment. In a state like Florida, a home without a screened outdoor area is often at a disadvantage on the real estate market.

A screened porch adds "curb appeal" and increases the usable square footage of your home without the massive cost of a fully conditioned room addition. You can read more about the value-add in our post: Do Screened-In Porches Add Value. Furthermore, the Project Spending Data: Harvard University JCHS shows that outdoor improvements remain one of the top priorities for homeowners looking to protect their property value.

Long-Term Maintenance and the Cost to Install Screened In Porch Replacements

While the structure itself can last 50 to 100 years, the screens are the "wear and tear" items.

• Screen Lifespan: Expect your screens to last 6 to 10 years. In coastal areas like Indialantic or Satellite Beach, the salt air can degrade mesh slightly faster.
• Rescreening Costs: When it’s time for a refresh, rescreening typically costs between $800 and $2,900, depending on the size and the mesh type.
• Cleaning: We recommend a gentle wash with mild soap and water once or twice a year to remove pollen and dust.
• Frame Durability: Our aluminum frames are virtually maintenance-free. Unlike wood, they won't rot, warp, or require staining every three years.

Frequently Asked Questions about Screened Porch Costs

Is it cheaper to DIY or hire a professional?

You can buy DIY materials for a 200 sq. ft. porch for about $450. If you have basic carpentry skills and an existing covered porch, this is a great weekend project. However, for new builds, we strongly advise against DIY. Between the concrete work, the roof tie-ins, and the complex permit requirements in Florida, the risk of structural failure or code violations is high. Hiring a pro adds $300–$600 in labor for simple jobs, but it saves you thousands in potential mistakes.

How much does a 16x16 screened-in porch cost?

A 16x16 porch is our most popular size because it fits a dining set and a seating area comfortably. On average, a new 16x16 build with pressure-treated wood or aluminum framing costs around $45,000. If you opt for premium materials like composite flooring or motorized screens, that price can climb to $55,000 or higher.

What is the typical ROI for a screened-in porch?

In Florida, you can expect about a 75% return. Because our "outdoor season" is year-round, buyers place a high premium on bug-free outdoor spaces. It’s not just about the money, though—the lifestyle value of having a second family room that breathes is priceless.

Conclusion: Planning Your Dream Outdoor Space

Navigating the cost to install screened in porch doesn't have to be a guessing game. Whether you are looking for a simple $2,000 enclosure to keep the mosquitoes away in West Melbourne or a $40,000 luxury retreat in Viera West, the key is working with a team that understands the local landscape.

At Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, we pride ourselves on budget transparency and craftsmanship. We’ve spent years perfecting the art of the Florida porch, ensuring every bolt and screen panel is built to last. From Melbourne to Vero Beach, we help homeowners turn their backyard dreams into a reality that fits their budget.

Ready to see what your project might look like? Check out our detailed breakdown on How Much Does a Screened-In Porch Cost and let us help you build a space you'll love for decades.