Do Screened-In Porches Add Value?

Do Screened-In Porches Add Value? A Florida Homeowner’s Guide

If you live in Brevard County or Indian River County, FL, you already know how valuable outdoor living space is. Our subtropical climate gives us warm breezes, gorgeous sunsets, and nearly year-round patio weather—as long as we can escape the mosquitos, humidity, and afternoon downpours. That’s where screened-in porches come in.

But Florida homeowners often ask:

“Do screened-in porches actually add value to my home?”

Short answer? Absolutely—they’re one of the highest-ROI upgrades you can make in Florida.

This guide breaks down how much value screened-in porches add, why they’re especially profitable in Florida’s coastal counties, what buyers look for, and how to maximize ROI with professional-grade construction.

1. Yes—Screened-In Porches Add Significant Value to Florida Homes

In most states, outdoor living spaces are considered “nice to have.”
But in Brevard and Indian River County, screened porches are often viewed as essential features by buyers.

Average Value Added

While exact numbers vary, research from real estate professionals and Florida appraisers aligns on a consistent trend:

  • Screened-in porches add between 65%–85% ROI on average
  • Homes in Florida’s coastal markets often see home value increases of $10,000–$30,000+
  • Premium builds (insulated roofs, aluminum framing, upgraded mesh) can boost value even more

Because outdoor living is such a major lifestyle driver in Florida, buyers will often choose a home with a screened porch over a home without one, even at a higher price.

2. Why Screened-In Porches Increase Value in Brevard & Indian River County

The value boost isn’t random—screened porches solve real problems for Florida homeowners.

2.1. They Provide Mosquito-Free Outdoor Living

Florida mosquitos are no joke. In warm months, they can render a normal backyard nearly unusable.

A screened porch gives homeowners:

  • A protected outdoor lounge area
  • A play space for kids and pets
  • A grilling/dining area without pests
  • A comfortable hangout spot in the evenings

For many buyers relocating from up north, screened porches are a must-have feature—not a luxury.

2.2. They Improve Storm Protection

In Brevard and Indian River County, afternoon thunderstorms and hurricane season are part of life.

A screened porch:

  • Shields furniture from wind-blown debris
  • Reduces UV damage
  • Provides a safer outdoor space during mild storms
  • Keeps the patio dry even during heavy rain

Buyers know this, and they’ll pay extra for a well-built enclosure.

2.3. They Extend Your Usable Living Space

A screened-in porch effectively becomes a new room—but without the cost of a full home addition.

Homeowners use screened porches for:

  • Family gathering space
  • Outdoor dining rooms
  • Poolside lounges
  • Pet rooms
  • Morning coffee nooks
  • Small home gyms or yoga spaces

Extra living space = extra value.

2.4. They Reduce Maintenance

Screened porches keep leaves, wildlife, pollen, and debris out of your patio space. Less maintenance means:

  • Higher quality of life
  • Better long-term condition of outdoor surfaces
  • Lower ongoing costs

This is a major selling point for retirees and busy families alike.

3. How Much Value a Screened Porch Adds in the Local Market

Homebuyers in Melbourne, Viera, Cocoa, Titusville, Palm Bay, Sebastian, and Vero Beach are consistently willing to pay extra for screened-in outdoor spaces.

Here’s what local real estate agents report:

  • Homes with a screened porch sell faster
  • Homes without screened areas often get reduced offers
  • Many buyers consider a screened lanai “standard” in Florida

In neighborhoods like Viera, Suntree, Cocoa Beach, and the barrier islands, homes without outdoor enclosures may fall behind competing listings.

4. Choosing the Right Type of Screened Porch to Maximize Value

Not all screened porches deliver the same value. Your ROI depends heavily on materials, design, and long-term durability.

4.1. Aluminum Framed Screen Rooms (Most Popular)

Durable, corrosion-resistant, and hurricane-tested—perfect for coastal counties.

Best for: Most Florida homeowners
Adds excellent value

4.2. Insulated Roof (Elite Panel Roofs)

Great for keeping the space cooler and reducing noise from rain.

Best for: Year-round outdoor dining or living rooms
Highest resale demand

4.3. Screened Lanais for Pool Areas

Buyers love them because they keep:

  • Debris out of the pool
  • Insects away
  • Water cleaner
  • Kids and pets safer

Adds the highest value per square foot.

4.4. Upgraded Screening (No-See-Um or Solar)

Premium screens block tiny insects and reduce sun exposure.

A major selling point along the Indian River Lagoon and beachside communities.

5. How Much Does a Screened-In Porch Cost in Florida?

While every project varies, most screened porches in our area cost:

  • $2,800–$15,000 for a standard patio enclosure
  • $10,000–$35,000+ for large or insulated structures
  • $20,000–$50,000+ for pool enclosure extensions

And because ROI averages 65%–85%, most homeowners get much of that investment back in increased property value—plus years of added enjoyment.

6. Why Work With a Local Florida Screening Specialist?

When it comes to outdoor structures in Florida, experience and engineering matter.

At Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, we specialize in building structures engineered for:

  • Coastal winds
  • High humidity
  • Salt exposure
  • UV intensity
  • Local code requirements
  • Storm durability

We live here. We work here. And we know exactly what Brevard and Indian River County homes need for long-lasting quality and resale value.

7. The Local Advantage: Why Screened Porches Matter in Brevard & Indian River County

Florida is unique—but so are our two counties.

Here’s why screened porches add extra value locally:

7.1. Brevard County Demand

Cities like:

  • Melbourne
  • Palm Bay
  • Cocoa
  • Rockledge
  • Titusville
  • Cocoa Beach

…see high relocation numbers from out-of-state buyers who expect outdoor screened areas.

7.2. Indian River County Demand

In communities such as:

  • Vero Beach
  • Sebastian
  • Fellsmere
  • Winter Beach

Outdoor living is not just a luxury—it’s a lifestyle expectation.

7.3. Our Climate Makes Screened Porches a “Top 5” Most Requested Feature

According to local real estate reports, buyers regularly rank screened porches alongside:

  • Updated kitchens
  • New roofs
  • Energy-efficient windows
  • Hurricane shutters
  • Screened lanais

When buyers consistently want a feature, home value follows.

8. How to Maximize the Value You Get From Your Screened Porch

Here are the best strategies to increase ROI:

✔ Choose Premium Aluminum Framing

Lasts decades, resists corrosion, and looks modern.

✔ Add a Solid Insulated Roof

Makes the space usable during hot afternoons and heavy rain.

✔ Use High-Quality Screening

Especially no-see-um mesh near water or solar mesh for sunnier areas.

✔ Match the Design to Your Home

A well-matched enclosure looks like part of the house, not an add-on.

✔ Add a Paver or Concrete Floor Upgrade

Beautiful flooring transforms the space from “patio” to “outdoor living room.”

✔ Work with a Licensed Local Contractor

Buyers (and insurance companies) are very aware of Florida building codes.

9. Will a Screened-In Porch Increase Home Appraisal?

Yes—appraisers factor in:

  • Square footage of enclosed areas
  • Quality of materials
  • Recent permitting
  • Comparable local sales
  • Added living functionality

While screened porches don’t usually count as “under air” square footage, they do increase the overall improved value of the structure.

Many appraisers in Brevard and Indian River County affirm that homes with screened porches consistently sell for higher prices than similar homes without them.

10. FAQs About Screened-In Porches

1. Do screened-in porches add value to a house?

Yes—especially in Florida. Most homeowners see a 65%–85% ROI and a significant boost in buyer interest.

2. How much does a screened porch add to home value in Florida?

On average, $10,000–$30,000+, depending on size, quality, and location.

3. Are screened-in porches worth it in Florida’s climate?

Absolutely. They protect against sun, mosquitos, storms, and debris—making outdoor living usable year-round.

4. Does a screened porch count as square footage?

Not as “under air” square footage, but it does increase overall property value and marketability.

5. How long does a screened porch last in Florida?

A professionally built aluminum enclosure can last 20–30+ years with proper care.

6. Can a screened porch survive hurricanes?

When built to local codes with proper engineering, screened enclosures are designed to withstand Florida wind loads.

7. Is a screened-in porch better than a sunroom?

They serve different purposes. A screened porch is more affordable and offers outdoor airflow. A sunroom provides climate control but costs more.

8. What type of screen is best in Florida?

No-see-um mesh or phifer 20/20 screens are ideal for coastal regions with tiny insects.

9. How much does it cost to add a screened porch in Brevard or Indian River County?

Most projects range from $2,800 to $35,000+, depending on design and materials.

10. Do screened porches help sell a home faster?

Yes—buyers consistently prefer move-in-ready outdoor spaces.

11. Thinking About Adding a Screened-In Porch?

At Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, we’ve served Brevard and Indian River County homeowners for years with:

  • Screened porches
  • Lanais
  • Pool enclosures
  • Patio screen rooms
  • Elite roofs
  • Paver flooring upgrades
  • Custom aluminum structures

We combine local expertise, hurricane-rated engineering, and high-quality craftsmanship to deliver long-lasting value.

Call us today for a free estimate or fill out our form to get in touch with a team member.


Serving: Melbourne, Palm Bay, Viera, Cocoa, Titusville, Rockledge, Satellite Beach, Indialantic, Sebastian, Vero Beach & surrounding areas

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