Andersen Patio Doors

6 Must-Have’s for Your Screened-In Porch

Its summertime in Richmond Virginia and after the long, tough winter we had here I was anxious to be able to spend time outdoors. From dinners to enjoying a nice glass of wine after work I have loved have been utilizing my screened in porch now more than ever. We built our screened-in porch a couple of years ago and since then, every couple of months, I have found things to add to it that just improved the ambiance. I wanted to share with you the six features of my screened-in porch that I couldn’t live without.

Patio Doors
You are going to want to make sure that you pick the right patio doors for your Richmond area home. This is an important decision because, when done right, your screened-in porch is an extended living space in your home. This isn’t a time that you are going to want to cut costs, sacrificing a quality product. That’s why I chose Andersen patio doors in Richmond VA. Andersen doors are energy efficient and elegant. I also felt confident choosing these patio doors because Renewal by Andersen offers an entire line of patio door styles, finishes, and hardware options. That means, if I decide to change the style of porch, they will have the right patio door for my design every time. I also love that I have to do almost nothing to maintain these. Between their Fibrex material and vinyl sheath coating, they look brand new even years later. I am always opening up my patio doors to create a huge living room space which is great for entertaining.
Ceiling Fans
Ventilation is important for your screened-in porch, and a ceiling fan is one thing you absolutely gotta have. This will keep you cool in the summer and truly create a southern style atmosphere. Keep in mind that you are going to want to purchase an exterior grade fan. These are going to be a little pricier but if you do choose to go with an interior ceiling fan it may only last you about a year due to exposure to heat and humidity. This is also an opportunity for you to invest in a statement piece. You can choose from an ornately decorative fan to something simple and rustic such as a wicker fan.
Built-in Sound System
If you are currently adding on a porch to your home, make sure your contractor knows to include a fair number of electrical outlets. If you already have a porch built, simply contact your local electrician and ask about how you can install around 2 to 4 covered outlets. Also, have an outdoor stereo system so you can relax and listen to your favorite artists. You can even pre-wire a speaker system and purchase speakers specifically designed for outdoor use. That way you aren’t constantly lugged around a docking station from one room to the next.
Plenty of Seating
This is something to keep in mind when you are determining the size you are going to make your outdoor addition. Your porch should be sized proportionately to the adjoining living space and your entire home as well. If your porch is too large it is going to stand out and overpower the visual appeal of your home. In contrast, if your porch is too small it will look architecturally inferior and you won’t be able to properly utilize the space. Remember your porch is going to be a space for relaxation and socializing. You are going to want to provide adequate and comfortable seating. Watch how fast your screened-in porch will soon become the most popular room in the house. Even consider installing an outdoor swing like I did. It’s a perfect when I feel like curling up and diving into my summer read.
Dining Area
One of my favorite things to do on a beautiful day is grill out and enjoy a nice meal at home with my family on our outdoor dining room table. I made sure that I was able to fit couches, chairs, and a table to seats six on my screened-in porch. From Mother’s Day breakfast to cookouts and family dinners, we may use our outdoor dining room table more than our indoor one. Also, don’t be afraid to go all out. Fully set the table with centerpieces, flatware, saucers, and napkins. Your guests will truly appreciate the extra effort and after all this is a screened-in porch, not an outdoor picnic table.
Insect Screens
Bug proofing your porch is key for you and your guests to truly be able to enjoy the experience. There are a number of options out there to protect from annoying bugs like flies, bees, and mosquitos. Of course you are going to install insect screens around the parts of the porch you can see, but make sure to have screens even where you can’t see. This includes under the flooring. You may not realize that bugs can sneak between the cracks in boards of your floor. You want your screened-in deck to feel like an extension of your home that just happens to be outdoors.