Screened In Lanai Guide for Florida Homeowners

Screened In Lanai: A Complete Guide for Florida Homeowners

A screened in lanai is one of the most practical and popular outdoor upgrades for Florida homeowners. It allows you to enjoy fresh air and outdoor living while protecting your space from insects, debris, and harsh sun exposure.

If you’re considering adding or upgrading a screened in lanai, this guide explains what it is, the benefits, cost considerations, and why it’s such a smart investment for Florida homes.

What Is a Screened In Lanais?

A screened in lanai is an aluminum-framed outdoor enclosure—typically built around a patio, porch, or pool area—using durable screening material. Unlike solid patio covers or sunrooms, screened lanais provide:

  • Open airflow
  • Protection from insects and debris
  • A comfortable, shaded outdoor space

They are especially popular in Florida due to the warm climate and year-round outdoor living lifestyle.

Benefits of a Screened In Lanai in Florida

1. Bug-Free Outdoor Living

Mosquitoes, no-see-ums, and other insects are common in Florida. A screened in lanai creates a barrier that allows you to enjoy your patio without constant pests.

2. Improved Airflow & Comfort

Unlike solid enclosures, screened lanais allow natural breezes to pass through, keeping the space cooler and more comfortable.

3. Reduced Maintenance

A lanai enclosure keeps leaves, dirt, and debris off your patio furniture and flooring—reducing cleaning and upkeep.

4. Extended Living Space

A screened in lanai acts as an extension of your home, giving you more usable space for entertaining, dining, or relaxing.

5. Increased Home Value

Screened lanais are highly desirable in Florida and can improve curb appeal, functionality, and resale value.

Screen Options for a Screened In Lanai

Choosing the right screen is essential for comfort and durability. Common options include:

  • Standard insect screens – affordable and effective
  • No-see-um screens – ideal for coastal or marsh areas
  • Solar & UV-blocking screens – reduce heat and glare
  • Privacy or shade screens – added comfort and seclusion
  • Pet-resistant screens – stronger material for homes with pets

The right screen depends on your location, usage, and comfort goals.

Does a Screened In Lanai Require a Permit in Florida?

In many cases, yes. Permit requirements depend on:

  • Whether the lanai is attached to the home
  • Structural modifications
  • Local county and wind-load requirements

Working with a local contractor ensures your screened in lanai meets Florida building codes and is properly permitted.

How Much Does a Screened In Lanai Cost?

The cost of a screened in lanai varies based on several factors:

  • Size and layout
  • Screen type
  • Aluminum frame strength
  • Roof design (if applicable)
  • Local permitting requirements

Basic screened lanais are typically more affordable than pool enclosures or solid roof structures, making them a cost-effective outdoor upgrade.

Why Work With a Local Florida Contractor?

Florida’s climate, wind-load requirements, and building codes make proper design and installation critical. A local contractor understands:

  • Regional permitting processes
  • Coastal and high-wind construction needs
  • Materials that hold up to Florida weather

Lafferty Aluminum & Screening specializes in custom screened in lanais designed for long-term performance in Brevard and Indian River County.

Is a Screened In Lanai Right for Your Home?

If you want to enjoy the outdoors without bugs, debris, or constant maintenance, a screened in lanai is one of the most practical upgrades you can make.

For design options, pricing details, and installation information, visit our Screened In Lanais service page or schedule a free consultation to explore your options.

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What our clients are saying

Building trust, one review at the time

Five evenly spaced blue star shapes in a horizontal row.

"Lafferty did an amazing job! We love our new screen. They were very professional and we had our finished screen before expected. We recommend Lafferty to everyone."

Andrea Durango

Valued Customer
Five evenly spaced blue star shapes in a horizontal row.

Lafferty did an excellent job on our unconventional screening project. The office staff was responsive and friendly. From consultation to installation, all of our questions and concerns were addressed.

Roslyn

Valued Customer
Five evenly spaced blue star shapes in a horizontal row.

"Lafferty did an excellent job installing our pool screens. The are prompt and keep you well informed concerning the job!  I would definitely hire Lafferty Screens again!!"

Gerald Patenaude

Valued Customer
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"We are very satisfied with our new fence and work done by Lafferty Aluminum.  Quality, professionalism, and reliability working with Lafferty has been very good and I am happy we chose them."

Tony R

Valued Customer
Five evenly spaced blue star shapes in a horizontal row.

"Lafferty was one of the easiest and smoothest company's to work with.  We are building our home and these guys were so customer friendly, answered all our questions, was available to take our call if we had questions."

R. Morris

Valued Customer
Five evenly spaced blue star shapes in a horizontal row.

"Friendly service, professional attitude of employee, polite and they cleaned up as they worked.   We had our pool enclosed redone after hurricane damage and now it looks great. Thanks"

Norman Danella

Valued Customer
Five evenly spaced blue star shapes in a horizontal row.

"Lafferty did a fantastic job from start to finish on the patio pavers and aluminum screening. They completed the project on time, and perhaps even a little ahead of schedule!"

Jennifer Rinehart

Valued Customer
Five evenly spaced blue star shapes in a horizontal row.

"I couldn't be happier with the work performed by Lafferty.  They replaced my original screen house in February in a professional and timely manner.  I would highly recommend them for your screen enclosure needs."

Mike Barbagallo

Valued Customer
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