What Does a Screened-In Lanai Cost? Here's the Quick Answer

Screened-in lanai cost ranges widely depending on what you're building — but here's a fast breakdown to get you oriented:

Project TypeAverage CostCost per Sq FtAdding screens to existing porch$2,000 – $5,000$10 – $25/sq ftNew screened lanai (full build)$10,000 – $35,000$50 – $175/sq ftScreen-only installation (materials + labor)$6 – $10/sq ftvaries by sizeRescreening existing frames$2 – $4/sq ftreuses frames

Costs vary based on size, materials, location, and whether you're working with an existing structure or starting from scratch.

If you live in coastal Florida, you already know the deal: bugs, heat, and underused outdoor space are a real frustration. A screened lanai changes that. It gives your family a comfortable, protected outdoor area — one that keeps the mosquitoes out and the Florida breeze in.

The word lanai comes from Hawaii, where it simply means a covered porch or balcony. In Florida, it's become a staple of home design — especially for homeowners who want to enjoy their backyard or pool area without fighting off insects or dealing with harsh afternoon sun.

But before you commit to a project, you need to know what it actually costs. Prices vary a lot — and understanding why is the key to budgeting smartly and avoiding surprises.

I'm Cody Lafferty, and with over 10 years of hands-on experience in aluminum and screening — from fabrication and installation to full project management — I've helped countless Florida homeowners understand exactly what drives their screened-in lanai cost. In this guide, I'll walk you through everything you need to make a confident, informed decision.

Understanding the Screened-In Lanai Cost: New Build vs. Enclosure

When we talk about the screened-in lanai cost, the first thing we have to clarify is whether we are enclosing an existing space or building a brand-new room from the dirt up. This is the single biggest factor in your final invoice.

Enclosing an Under-Truss Lanai

In many Florida homes, particularly in areas like Viera or Melbourne, the house is built with an "under-truss" porch. This means the roof of the house already extends over the back patio. The "bones" are there; you just need the "skin."

Enclosing an under-truss area typically costs between $1,000 and $3,000 for standard sizes, though larger custom openings can push that toward $5,000. Because you aren't pouring a new foundation or building a roof, this is the most budget-friendly way to get a screened-in space. You can learn more about the specifics of these structures in our Screened Lanai Complete Guide.

Building a New Structure from Scratch

If you currently have a flat concrete pad (or just grass) and want a full lanai, you are looking at a "full build." This involves:

• Foundation: If you don't have a slab, pouring concrete can account for about 8% of your total budget.
• Roofing: You'll need either a structural aluminum roof (insulated or pan roof) or a traditional shingle roof that matches your home. A new gable roof for a screened-in lanai can cost between $70 and $155 per square foot.
• Framing: Structural aluminum is the standard in Florida for its rust resistance and strength.

For a full build, the screened-in lanai cost usually lands between $10,000 and $35,000. To see a deeper dive into these different configurations, check out our guide on Lanai Screen Enclosure Costs Types Benefits for Homes.

Average Cost per Square Foot by Material and Size

Size matters, but so does the math. Generally, as the square footage of your project increases, the cost per square foot might actually decrease slightly due to economies of scale. However, the total price tag will obviously climb.

Based on Product and Supplies Data and Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, here is how the numbers break down for common sizes in the Space Coast region:

• 100 sq ft (Small Patio): Enclosing an existing space might cost $1,200 – $2,500.
• 200 sq ft (Standard Lanai): This is the "sweet spot" for many homeowners. Expect to pay around $2,000 to $5,000 for a screen enclosure on an existing porch, or $10,000+ for a new build.
• 400 sq ft (Large Entertainment Space): For larger areas, often used for outdoor kitchens or dining, costs can range from $4,000 to $8,000 for enclosures and $20,000 to $45,000 for full constructions.

To get a better idea of the components involved in these Lanai Screen Enclosures, you have to look at the materials being used.

How Material Quality Impacts Your Screened-In Lanai Cost

Not all screens are created equal. While standard fiberglass mesh is the most affordable, it may not be the best choice for your specific needs in Florida.

• Fiberglass Mesh ($0.15 – $0.35/sq ft): The industry standard. It’s affordable and provides good visibility, but it is prone to tearing over time.
• Polyester (Pet-Resistant) Screens ($0.60 – $0.90/sq ft): If you have a cat that likes to climb or a dog that gets excited at squirrels, this is a must. It’s much tougher than fiberglass.
• No-See-Um Mesh: Specifically designed with a tighter weave to keep out those tiny biting gnats that plague coastal Florida. It costs slightly more but saves your skin during "bug season."
• Solar Protection Screens: These can block up to 90% of the sun's heat, significantly cooling your outdoor space.
• Aluminum vs. Stainless Steel Framing: We almost exclusively use high-grade aluminum in Melbourne and Palm Bay because it doesn't rust in our salty air.

Choosing the right material is a balance of upfront screened-in lanai cost and long-term durability. For a full breakdown of material tiers, visit How Much Does a Screen Enclosure Cost.

Regional Pricing and the Screened-In Lanai Cost in Florida

If you’re looking at national averages, take them with a grain of salt. Living in Brevard County or Indian River County means we have unique requirements that affect the price.

1. Hurricane-Rated Engineering: Florida has some of the strictest building codes in the country. Your lanai must be engineered to withstand high wind loads. This requires thicker aluminum beams and specific anchoring systems, which adds to the cost compared to a lanai built in, say, Georgia.
2. Salt Air Corrosion: For our neighbors in Cocoa Beach, Satellite Beach, and Indialantic, we often recommend upgraded powder-coated finishes to prevent the salt air from pitting the aluminum frames.
3. Permitting: In Melbourne and Palm Bay, permits are a requirement for any structural addition. You should budget $200 to $800 for permit fees and potentially $1,000 to $2,000 for professional engineering drawings.

Check out Patio Enclosure Prices in Brevard County for a localized look at what your neighbors are investing.

Key Factors Influencing Your Total Investment

Beyond just the size and the screen type, several "hidden" factors can shift your screened-in lanai cost up or down.

• Roof Design: A "hip" or "gable" roof that ties into your home’s existing roofline is more expensive than a flat "studio" style aluminum roof, but it looks more integrated and can increase your home's value significantly.
• Land Grading and Drainage: If we are building a new lanai and your backyard slopes toward the house, we have to fix the grading first. Standing water is the enemy of a long-lasting structure.
• Electrical and Amenities: Want a ceiling fan? Outdoor lighting? Outlets for a TV? Adding these requires a licensed electrician and can add $500 to $2,000 to the project.
• Doors and Access: Most lanais include one standard screen door. If you want double doors (for moving large furniture) or sliding glass doors to turn the space into a "Florida Room," the price will jump.
• Pool Integration: If your lanai is actually a "pool cage," the engineering is much more complex because it has to span a large open area without support beams in the middle of the water. You can find more details on this in our post: How Much Does a Lanai Cage Cost in Palm Bay FL.

When contractors are Building a Unit-Price System, they take all these variables into account to ensure the structure is safe and legal.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lanai Costs

Does a screened-in lanai add to a home's square footage?

This is a common question during appraisals. Technically, a screened lanai is considered "unfinished" outdoor space. It does not count toward the "heated and cooled" square footage of your home. However, it absolutely adds to the usable living space and the overall appraisal value.

If you want it to count as true square footage, it must be fully enclosed with glass windows, insulated, and tied into your home's HVAC system. Most homeowners find that the Screened-in Lanais offer the best ROI because they provide that outdoor feel at a fraction of the cost of a full room addition.

How long do lanai screens last before needing replacement?

In the Florida sun, standard fiberglass screens typically last 7 to 10 years. Over time, UV rays make the mesh brittle, and eventually, a strong wind or a stray lizard will cause a tear.

Upgraded polyester screens can last 15 to 20 years. When the time comes, rescreening usually costs $2 to $4 per square foot. Keeping your screens clean and free of debris can help extend their life. For more maintenance tips, see our Cost to Screen in Porch Complete Guide.

Is it cheaper to DIY or hire a professional for a lanai?

You can buy DIY screen kits at big-box stores for a few hundred dollars. If you are just replacing a single panel of screen on an existing frame, DIY is a great way to save.

However, for a full enclosure or a new build, DIY can be a nightmare. Without professional engineering, your structure might not pass inspection or, worse, could collapse during a storm. Professionals like us provide labor warranties and ensure everything is up to code. If you're looking for inspiration on what a professional build can look like, browse our Screened Lanai Ideas Guide.

Conclusion

Investing in a screened lanai is about more than just numbers on a page; it’s about reclaiming your backyard. Whether you’re in Palm Bay, Melbourne, or anywhere along the Space Coast, a well-built lanai provides a sanctuary from the bugs and the heat while boosting your home’s curb appeal.

At Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, we bring over 30 years of family-owned expertise to every project. We live where you live, and we understand the specific challenges of the Florida climate. We don't just "slap up" screens; we build durable, beautiful outdoor spaces that last for decades.

Ready to get a precise quote for your home? Whether you're interested in Screened Lanais or a full pool enclosure, our team is here to help you navigate the costs and design the perfect space for your family. Contact us today to start your journey toward the ultimate Florida outdoor lifestyle!