A screened lanai is a covered outdoor living space, typically attached to the back of a Florida home, with screened walls that protect against insects, debris, and harsh weather while maintaining airflow and natural light. Here's what makes them valuable:
Living in Florida means dealing with bugs, intense sun, and unpredictable weather. A screened lanai solves these problems by creating a protected outdoor room that feels like a natural extension of your home. Unlike a simple porch or basic screen room, a lanai typically features a permanent roof structure integrated with your home's architecture, solid structural support, and professional-grade screening that stands up to coastal humidity and storms.
The key difference? A screened lanai is built as part of your home with a solid roof and permanent framing, while a screen room is often a lighter structure added to an existing patio. Lanais offer better weather protection, more privacy, and greater durability—making them the preferred choice for Florida homeowners who want reliable, long-term outdoor living space.
Most screened lanais in Brevard County and across the Space Coast cost between $2,000 and $5,000 for basic installations, with costs ranging from $10 to $50 per square foot depending on size, materials, and features like doors, lighting, or integrated outdoor kitchens. Professional installation typically takes just a few days once permits are approved.
I'm Cody Lafferty, Founder & CEO of Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, and I've spent over a decade helping homeowners across Melbourne and the Space Coast design and build custom screened lanais that withstand Florida's climate while enhancing property value. My team specializes in engineering durable aluminum structures with proper drainage, wind-rated materials, and seamless integration with existing homes—solving the unique challenges that come with coastal construction.
To truly understand why the screened lanai is the king of Florida outdoor living, we have to look at its roots. The term "lanai" actually originates from the Hawaiian islands, where it describes an open-sided, roofed veranda or porch. In the context of Florida architecture, particularly in areas like Palm Bay and Titusville, the lanai has evolved into a sophisticated hybrid space.
A lanai is characterized by its architectural integration. It isn't just "stuck on" to the back of the house; it is often part of the original building footprint, sharing the same roofline and foundation. This structural unity is what separates it from a standard porch or a sunroom. While a sunroom uses glass to create a fully climate-controlled interior space, a lanai uses screens to maintain that breezy, tropical "indoor-outdoor" flow that we all moved to Florida for in the first place.
Think of a screened lanai as a seamless extension of your living room. Because it features a solid roof—often constructed from the same shingles or tiles as the rest of your home—it provides superior protection from the vertical Florida sun and those sudden afternoon downpours. By adding high-quality mesh walls to this existing structural framework, you create a sanctuary that keeps the "great outdoors" from becoming "too much outdoors."
For those looking to upgrade their current setup, exploring lanai enclosures is often the first step toward reclaiming a patio that is currently being ruled by wasps and humidity.
The differences between these structures aren't just cosmetic; they are structural. A screen room is typically a lightweight aluminum cage with a screen roof (or a very thin aluminum pan roof) added to an existing concrete slab. In contrast, a lanai is a heavy-duty permanent structure.
FeatureScreened LanaiScreen RoomSunroomRoof TypeExisting Home Roof/IntegratedScreen or Aluminum PanGlass or InsulatedFoundationPoured Concrete/Home SlabExisting Patio/DeckReinforced FoundationAirflowHigh (Natural Breeze)High (Natural Breeze)None (HVAC Required)CostModerate ($2k - $5k+)Low (30% less than Sunroom)High ($300-$400/lin. ft)PermitsRequired (Structural)Required (Minor)Required (Full Inspection)
When deciding between these options, homeowners in Brevard and Indian River County must consider how they plan to use the space. If you want a place for your morning coffee that won't get wet when it rains, the lanai is the winner. If you just need a cheap way to keep flies away from your pool, a screen enclosure might suffice. You can learn more info about the difference between a lanai and a porch to see which fits your home's specific layout.
Why do so many of our neighbors in Melbourne Beach and Rockledge insist on a screened lanai? It’s not just about looking good; it’s about survival and comfort. Florida is beautiful, but it can be harsh.
The most immediate benefit is bug prevention. Anyone who has tried to enjoy a sunset in Vero Beach knows that the "state bird" of Florida is actually the mosquito. Screening in your lanai provides a 24/7 barrier against gnats, "no-see-ums," and those pesky lovebugs that swarm twice a year.
Beyond the bugs, a screened enclosure significantly reduces maintenance. It acts as a giant filter, catching falling leaves, twigs, and wind-blown debris before they ever reach your patio furniture. This means less time sweeping and more time relaxing. Additionally, modern screens provide a level of UV protection, shielding your skin and your expensive outdoor rugs from the bleaching effects of the sun.
According to research on the 5 benefits of screening in a lanai, the primary drivers for homeowners are privacy, reduced maintenance, insect control, weather protection, and aesthetic appeal.
Privacy is a major concern in many of our growing coastal communities. A screened lanai can be outfitted with specialty "Florida glass" or one-way mesh. This allows you to look out and enjoy your landscaping while preventing neighbors from seeing into your lounging area. It creates a secluded retreat where you can unwind in your pajamas without a care in the world.
For those living near busy roads in West Melbourne or Viera, certain screen types can even offer a slight reduction in ambient noise, making your outdoor oasis feel even more isolated from the hustle and bustle. If you're interested in keeping prying eyes away, you can find more info about lanai privacy screens to customize your level of seclusion.
Is a screened lanai a good investment? Absolutely. In the Florida real estate market, outdoor living space is often just as important as the number of bedrooms. A professionally installed lanai increases the "usable square footage" of your home.
Prospective buyers in areas like Merritt Island and Cocoa Beach specifically look for screened-in spaces because they know the cost and hassle of installing one themselves. By adding a lanai, you aren't just upgrading your lifestyle; you're increasing your home’s resale value and market appeal. It’s one of the few home improvements that offers a high return on investment while simultaneously being something you can enjoy every single day.
When it comes to materials, we don't settle for "good enough." In our humid, salt-air environment, the choice of materials is the difference between a structure that lasts 30 years and one that rusts out in five.
We primarily use powder-coated aluminum frames. Aluminum is naturally rust-resistant, which is crucial for homes in Satellite Beach or Cape Canaveral. For the screening itself, we often recommend Phifer products. You have several options:
Once the structure is up, the fun begins with styling. Many homeowners shop outdoor furniture and decor to turn their lanai into a five-star resort. Popular choices include weather-resistant wicker, teak tables, and vibrant outdoor rugs that can withstand the occasional spray of rain.
Your screened lanai should be a reflection of your personality. We've seen some incredible transformations across Brevard County. Some popular customization options include:
Working with custom lanai builders allows you to integrate these features seamlessly into the initial design, ensuring that electrical and plumbing lines are hidden and the aesthetic is cohesive.
Let's talk numbers. While every project is unique, most homeowners can expect to pay between $2,000 and $5,000 to screen in an existing lanai. If we are building a structure from scratch, the price per square foot typically ranges from $10 to $50.
Why such a wide range? It comes down to the details. A simple "walls-only" screen on an existing porch is very affordable. However, if you want a custom roof extension, premium "no-see-um" mesh, and a designer door, the price will reflect those upgrades. Compared to a full home addition—which can cost three times as much—a screened lanai is an incredibly economical way to expand your home.
The installation process is surprisingly quick. Once we have the permits in hand (which can take a few weeks depending on whether you're in Melbourne or Sebastian), the actual physical build usually takes only 2 to 4 days.
Maintenance is straightforward but essential for longevity. We recommend:
If a hurricane does manage to damage your mesh, don't worry—you can find more info about lanai screen repairs to get your sanctuary back in tip-top shape.
In Florida, your contractor is your best friend or your worst nightmare. Because our region is prone to high winds and hurricanes, structural integrity isn't optional—it's a legal requirement.
When looking for a pro, ensure they are:
At Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, we pride ourselves on our 30 years of combined experience. We don't just put up screens; we engineer structures that are meant to last through Florida's toughest seasons.
The physical installation usually takes 2 to 4 days. However, the "pre-game" phase—which includes design, quoting, and waiting for municipal permit approval—can take anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks. We handle the heavy lifting of the permitting process to make it as stress-free as possible for you.
Yes, when built to code. Modern screened lanais are engineered with reinforced aluminum beams and specific wind-anchoring systems. While the screen mesh itself is designed to "blow out" under extreme pressure to save the metal frame from collapsing, the structure itself is built to withstand significant wind loads. We always recommend using storm-rated mesh for added peace of mind.
If you already have a roof and a concrete slab, screening in the "walls" is very cost-effective. Expect to pay between $1,200 and $3,500 depending on the linear footage and the type of screen you choose. Adding a door and a kickplate (to protect against weed whackers and pets) will add a bit more to the total.
A screened lanai is more than just a home improvement project; it's a lifestyle upgrade that pays for itself in comfort, convenience, and home value. Whether you’re sipping a cold drink while watching the sunset in Indialantic or hosting a bug-free family barbecue in Palm Bay, the benefits are undeniable.
At Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, we are dedicated to helping Florida homeowners make the most of their outdoor spaces. From the initial design to the final screw, we bring craftsmanship and structural integrity to every project across Melbourne, Brevard County, and Indian River County.
Ready to transform your patio into a tropical oasis? We offer free estimates and custom solutions custom to your home's unique needs. Start your screened lanai project today and see why so many of your neighbors trust us to lift their outdoor living.
"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."
"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."
"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!!"
"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."
"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."
"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"
"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!"
"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."
We're excited to learn more about your needs and provide you with a personalized quote. Please fill out the form, and our team will get back to you with a detailed estimate to kickstart your project.
