Why DIY Aluminum Screen Porch Kits Are Transforming Florida Outdoor Living

DIY aluminum screen porch kits provide homeowners with all the materials needed to create bug-free outdoor spaces without hiring a contractor. Here's what you need to evaluate before choosing one:

Top DIY Aluminum Screen Porch Kit Options:

Kit TypeBest ForTypical CostInstallation TimeComplete Aluminum Frame KitsFull porch enclosures with custom dimensions$500-$2,000+1-3 daysAluminum Track SystemsAdding screens to existing structures$250-$5001 dayModular Screen Wall Kits8x8 ft sections for smaller spaces$268-$318 per section4-6 hours

What's Typically Included:

• Extruded aluminum framing with baked-on enamel finish
• Screen mesh (standard 18x16 weave)
• Spline and roller tools
• TEK screws and mounting hardware
• Installation instructions

What You'll Need to Provide:

• Existing roof or ceiling structure
• Local mounting hardware for securing to walls/posts
• Basic tools (chop saw with metal blade, drill)
• 1-3 days of installation time

Every summer, Florida homeowners face the same frustration: wanting to enjoy their porch without fighting mosquitoes and no-see-ums. DIY aluminum screen porch kits promise an affordable solution, with some homeowners reporting successful builds for under $500 using basic materials. But the reality is more complex than the marketing suggests.

The truth about DIY kits: While they include framing, screen, and hardware, they require precise measurements, on-site cutting of 24-foot aluminum profiles, and sourcing additional mounting supplies locally. Material quality varies significantly between suppliers, and installation mistakes can lead to gaps, sagging screens, or structural issues down the road.

Aluminum vs. wood framing: Aluminum offers superior durability in Florida's humidity, with rust-proof construction and baked-on finishes that won't rot, warp, or require repainting. Most quality kits use .048" to .050" wall thickness extruded aluminum, designed to withstand coastal conditions while maintaining a clean, modern appearance.

As Cody Lafferty — Founder & CEO of Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, I've spent over 10 years helping Brevard County homeowners navigate the decision between DIY aluminum screen porch kits and professional custom installations, with a particular focus on ensuring proper integration with Florida's unique construction challenges. Through hundreds of projects across Melbourne and the Space Coast, I've seen both successful DIY builds and costly mistakes that require professional correction.

Why Choose DIY Aluminum Screen Porch Kits Over Traditional Materials?

When we talk to homeowners in Melbourne and Vero Beach, the debate often centers on aluminum versus wood. While a DIY project using pressure-treated 2x4s might seem cheaper at the checkout counter—costing around $120 for lumber and $250 for screen materials—the long-term reality in Florida is much different.

Wood is susceptible to the "three Horsemen of the Florida Apocalypse": humidity, termites, and wood rot. Even with regular painting or staining, wood framing will eventually warp or decay. Diy aluminum screen porch kits, on the other hand, utilize extruded aluminum. This material is lightweight yet incredibly strong, featuring a baked-on enamel finish that resists the salty air of Satellite Beach and the intense UV rays of Cape Canaveral.

FeatureAluminum KitsWood FramingVinyl SystemsDurabilityHigh (Rust-proof)Low (Rots/Warps)Moderate (Can become brittle)MaintenanceMinimal (Soap & Water)High (Painting/Staining)LowPest ResistanceTermite ProofTermite MagnetTermite ProofFinishBaked-on EnamelPaint/StainIntegrated ColorLifespan20+ Years5-10 Years10-15 Years

The structural integrity of aluminum is a major selling point. Most high-quality kits use a wall thickness of .048" for the mainframe and .050" for the U-channels. This ensures that the enclosure doesn't just look good but stays standing when the wind picks up during a summer thunderstorm. For those looking to understand the technical side of things, we've put together More info about porch screening to help you decide.

Essential Components and Features of Lafferty DIY Aluminum Screen Porch Kits

If you decide to take the plunge into a DIY project, you need to know exactly what is arriving on that delivery truck. A comprehensive kit isn't just a pile of metal; it’s a coordinated system.

Typically, a professional-grade kit will include:

• Extruded Aluminum Tracks: Often supplied in 94-inch or 24-foot sticks. These form the skeleton of your screen room.
• U-Channels: These are the "receivers" that attach to your existing walls, floor, and ceiling.
• Screen Spline: The rubber cord that holds the mesh in place. Pro tip: Use .165 spline for aluminum mesh and .185 for fiberglass mesh.
• TEK Screws: Self-drilling screws that make assembly much faster.
• Spline Roller Tool: Your best friend (or worst enemy) during the screening process.

One component we always recommend is the kick plate. Available in 8-inch, 16-inch, and 24-inch heights, these solid aluminum panels sit at the bottom of the screen. They protect the mesh from "accidents" like a stray weed whacker, a kicking toddler, or a dog who thinks he saw a squirrel on the other side.

Selecting the Right Mesh for Your Lafferty DIY Aluminum Screen Porch Kit

Not all screens are created equal. Depending on where you live—whether it’s the mosquito-heavy areas of Grant Valkaria or the breezy coast of Indialantic—your mesh choice matters.

1. Standard 18x16 Weave: This is the industry standard. It balances airflow with excellent insect protection.
2. Pet-Resistant Mesh: Often called "Super Screen," this is a heavy-duty vinyl-coated polyester. It’s nearly impossible for a cat or dog to tear, and it often comes with a 10-year limited warranty.
3. Solar Screens: If your porch faces the afternoon sun in Viera, solar mesh can block up to 90% of heat and glare, keeping your "paradise" much cooler.
4. No-See-Um Mesh (20x20): Essential for Florida living. These tiny biters can get through standard mesh, so a tighter weave is a lifesaver.

Customizing Your Lafferty DIY Aluminum Screen Porch Kit with Doors and Lights

A screen room is more than just walls. To truly elevate the space, consider adding a screen door. Standard sizes are usually 36" x 80", and they often come with their own 14-inch kick plate.

If you’re building under an insulated roof, you can even add LED lighting and fan hookups. There’s nothing quite like a ceiling fan on a humid July night in Melbourne Village to keep the air moving. For more inspiration on how to layout your space, check out More info about screened-in porches.

Step-by-Step Installation and Measurement Guide

The secret to a successful diy aluminum screen porch kit installation isn't the tools—it's the measurements. If you're off by half an inch, that 24-foot aluminum beam becomes a very expensive piece of scrap metal.

1. Measure Twice, Cut Once

Measure the height and width of every opening. Do not assume your porch is square—it almost never is. Measure the left side, the right side, and the middle for the height. Use the smallest measurement.

2. Install the U-Channels

Attach the U-channels to your existing structure (house wall, floor, and ceiling). You'll need to source local hardware for this, such as Tapcon screws for concrete floors or wood screws for your ceiling joists.

3. Cut Your Profiles

Using a chop saw equipped with a metal-cutting blade, cut your aluminum tracks to the heights and widths determined in step one. Wear safety glasses; aluminum shards are no joke!

4. Assemble the Frame

Secure the vertical posts and horizontal rails (like the chair rail, usually set at 38 inches high) using TEK screws and mullion clips. The chair rail adds structural stability and acts as a "whiskey ledge" for your drinks.

5. Rolling the Screen

Lay the mesh over the frame. Starting at a corner, use the spline roller to push the spline into the groove, locking the mesh in place. Pull the screen taut as you go, but not so tight that you bow the aluminum frames.

For a deeper dive into the nuances of working with existing structures, see our guide on Screening your existing porch.

Cost Analysis and Common Installation Mistakes

Let’s talk numbers. A basic diy aluminum screen porch kit for an 8x8 wall might run you about $318. If you’re doing a full 12' x 20' enclosure, you could be looking at several thousand dollars in materials.

However, the "cost" isn't just the price tag. You have to factor in your time. A full room can take 1 to 3 days to assemble. If you make a mistake on a cut, you're waiting for shipping on a replacement part, which can be delayed by supply chain issues (a common problem since 2020).

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Skipping the Permit: Yes, even for a screen-in, most Florida counties like Brevard and Indian River require a permit.
• Ignoring the Floor Slope: Most porches slope away from the house for drainage. If you don't account for this, your screen panels will look crooked.
• Loose Spline: If the screen isn't rolled in correctly, it will sag after the first big wind, making your beautiful new room look like a spiderweb.
• Using the Wrong Blade: A standard wood blade on your saw will burr the aluminum and can be dangerous. Always use a blade designed for non-ferrous metals.

Before you buy, it’s worth asking: is the savings worth the stress? We break down the pros and cons in Custom vs Kit Screen Enclosure.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lafferty Aluminum Porch Kits

Do I need a permit for a DIY screen porch?

In almost every part of Florida, including Melbourne and Palm Bay, yes. Screening in a porch changes the footprint and use of the space. Building codes ensure that the structure can handle wind loads. Failing to get a permit can result in fines or being forced to tear the structure down when you try to sell your home.

How long do aluminum screen kits last?

Aluminum is the king of longevity. With a baked-on polyester enamel finish, the framing can easily last 20 to 30 years. The screen mesh itself usually needs replacing every 7 to 10 years, depending on sun exposure and whether you have pets.

Can I install a kit on an existing deck?

Yes, provided the deck is structurally sound and has a roof. The aluminum U-channels can be mounted directly to the decking. However, if you're planning on a heavy roof system, you must ensure the deck footers can handle the additional weight.

Conclusion

Building your own bug-free paradise with diy aluminum screen porch kits is a rewarding way to reclaim your outdoor space. It offers a significant upgrade over wood and provides the durability needed for our unique Florida climate. From the shores of Cocoa Beach to the quiet neighborhoods of Fellsmere, a screened-in porch is a staple of the Sunshine State lifestyle.

However, a DIY kit is a major undertaking that requires precision, the right tools, and a fair bit of patience. While kits offer a "one-size-fits-most" solution, they often lack the seamless integration and structural "beefiness" of a custom-engineered enclosure.

At Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, we pride ourselves on delivering premium solutions that go beyond what a box kit can offer. With over 30 years of combined experience, we ensure that every enclosure is built to last, perfectly fitted to your home, and fully compliant with all local building codes. If you decide that you’d rather spend your weekend relaxing in a screen room rather than building one, we’re here to help.

Build your dream aluminum screen enclosure in Melbourne, FL and let us handle the heavy lifting while you focus on picking out the patio furniture.