How to Screen Your Porch for a Bug-Free Outdoor Living Space

Screen Your Porch and Create a Bug-Free Outdoor Oasis

Why Screened Porches Are So Popular in Florida

Florida homeowners love outdoor living—but insects can quickly ruin the experience. Screening an existing porch is one of the most effective ways to create a bug-free outdoor space while maintaining airflow, visibility, and comfort.

At Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, we help homeowners transform open porches into screened-in porches designed for relaxation, entertaining, and year-round enjoyment.

How Do You Screen an Existing Porch?

To screen an existing porch, you assess the structure, choose durable screen materials, install aluminum framing, and secure screens tightly for long-lasting insect protection.

Step-by-Step Guide to Screening Your Existing Porch

1. Assess Your Porch Structure

Start by evaluating your porch’s condition, layout, and materials. Address any repairs or upgrades before adding screens to ensure a strong foundation.

Our team can assess your porch and recommend improvements before installing a screen porch enclosure.

2. Choose the Right Screen Material

The screen you choose determines airflow, visibility, and insect protection. Popular options include:

  • Standard screen mesh
  • No-see-um screens for small insects
  • Privacy screens for added shade and seclusion

3. Decide Where Screens Will Be Installed

You can screen the entire porch or focus on specific areas like seating or dining spaces. Screens are typically installed in existing openings for a seamless look.

4. Select Durable Frame Options

Frames are critical for both strength and appearance. Aluminum frames are the preferred choice in Florida due to their durability, corrosion resistance, and low maintenance.

5. DIY vs. Professional Screen Installation

While DIY projects are possible, professional installation ensures:

  • Proper tension to prevent sagging
  • Secure framing
  • Compliance with local building codes

Professional installation also extends the life of your screened porch.

6. Prepare the Porch for Installation

Before installation, clean the area thoroughly and address any structural issues. A clean, stable porch leads to better results.

7. Install Screens with Precision

Screens must be stretched tightly and secured properly to maintain durability and appearance. Precision installation prevents sagging and premature wear.

8. Add Finishing Touches

Enhance your screened porch enclosure with:

  • Screen doors
  • Outdoor lighting
  • Ceiling fans
  • Decorative accents

These features improve comfort and usability.

9. Enjoy Your Bug-Free Outdoor Oasis

Once complete, your screened porch becomes a peaceful retreat—perfect for relaxing, entertaining, or enjoying Florida’s outdoors without insects.

Why Homeowners Choose Lafferty Aluminum & Screening

  • Expert screen porch design & installation
  • High-quality aluminum framing
  • Custom screen solutions
  • Local Florida experience

See what homeowners are saying by visiting our Google Business Profile.

Frequently Asked Questions About Screening a Porch

Can any porch be screened in?

Most porches can be screened in if the structure is sound. A professional evaluation determines feasibility.

What is the best screen for keeping bugs out?

No-see-um screens provide the highest level of insect protection while maintaining airflow.

How long does it take to screen a porch?

Most screened porch projects are completed within a few days, depending on size and complexity.

Do screened porches require permits in Florida?

Permit requirements vary by location. Our team handles permitting when required.

Does screening a porch add value to a home?

Yes. Screened porches increase usability, comfort, and buyer appeal.

Transform Your Porch into a Bug-Free Living Space

If you’re ready to enjoy your porch without insects, a screened porch enclosure is the perfect solution.

Contact Lafferty Aluminum & Screening today to schedule a consultation and create your bug-free outdoor oasis.

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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
Five evenly spaced blue star shapes in a horizontal row.

"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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