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Common Types Of Screen Porch Materials

There are a variety of screen porch materials available on the market today. Homeowners can choose from a number of different options when it comes to screening their porches, and each option has its own set of pros and cons.

One element of your screen porch is the screens, but other essential elements are the framing material and flooring. Different types of screen porch materials can affect the overall look of your porch and its durability and functionality.

Here is a look at some of the most popular screened porch materials:

Here Porch Screen Materials & Options

Aluminum Screens

Aluminum is popular for screening porches because it is very durable and offers excellent visibility. For decades, aluminum was the go-to choice for screen doors and windows. However, aluminum screens can be more expensive than other options. They also dent more easily than other materials. In coastal areas or humid climates, aluminum screens can corrode (if not adequately coated or treated).

Fiberglass Screens

Fiberglass is the most popular screen material for porches. Fiberglass is durable and offers great visibility. The screens don’t rust, are flexible, and are easy to clean. They are also less likely to dent than aluminum. In addition, fiberglass screens come in a variety of colors, so you can choose the perfect shade to complement your home’s exterior.

The downsides of fiberglass screens are that they can be damaged by sharp objects (such as pet claws) and fade over time in direct sunlight. However, some fiberglass screens are coated in vinyl to give them added strength and durability.

Polyster Screens

Polyester screens are a newer option on the market. They are coated with vinyl during the production process to make them more resistant. Although they cost more than fiberglass screens, they offer greater durability. Polyester screens have great visibility and are very strong and tear-resistant. This makes this screened porch material an excellent choice for homes with pets.

Solar Screens

Solar screens are typically made from either fiberglass or polyester, which are sometimes coated with vinyl for added durability. Solar screens block out the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can damage furniture and flooring. They reduce heat and glare, making your porch more comfortable in the hot summer. They also add privacy. Solar screens can be a great option if you’re looking for a screen porch material that will help keep your outdoor living space cool. Some solar screens are adjustable, allowing you to regulate the temperature and sunlight on your porch.

Screen Porch Framing Materials

The frame of your screen porch is just as crucial as the screens. The material you choose for the structure will affect your screened porch’s appearance and longevity.

Wood Framing

Wood is a popular choice for framing screen porches. It is strong, durable, and can be painted or stained to match your home’s exterior. You can choose from many kinds of wood, such as western red cedar or pressure-treated lumber. The result is a classic look that will complement any home style. Remember that wood is a natural material that is vulnerable to rot, insects, and weather damage. Therefore, it will require regular maintenance to keep it looking its best.

Aluminum Framing

Aluminum is a more durable option for porch framing. It is lightweight and doesn’t require as much upkeep as wood. Aluminum won’t rot or warp and is immune to insect damage. Aluminum framing can be expensive, but it will offer you a maintenance-free porch for many years to come.

Vinyl Framing

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance option, vinyl framing could be the right choice for you. Vinyl is durable and won’t rot or crack. It is cheaper than aluminum but more expensive than wood. You can find vinyl framing in various colors to match your home’s exterior.

Composite Framing

Composite is a newer material on the market made from a mix of wood and PVC. It is very durable, and it won’t quickly rot or crack. It offers the beauty of wood with the low maintenance of manufactured materials. Composite is also easy to clean and comes in a variety of colors.

Screen Porch Framing Material

Last but not least, you’ll need to choose the flooring material for your screen porch. The type of flooring you choose will depend on your budget, the climate you live in, and your personal preference.

Wood Decking

Wood is a classic choice for porch flooring. It is cheaper than most screen porch flooring materials and offers a natural look that is hard to match. The downside of wood decking is that it will need to be replaced sooner. High-traffic areas may show wear and tear more quickly.

Composite Decking

Composite decking, such as Trex decking, is made from wood and recycled plastic. It is very scratch resistant and won’t quickly rot or warp. Composite decking is also easy to clean and comes in a variety of colors and styles. Composite decking is more expensive than wood, but it will last longer and require less maintenance. In the long run, it is a more cost-effective option than wood. It is comfortable, durable, low-maintenance, and functional.

Concrete, Stone, Pavers, And Brick

Patio materials such as concrete, stone, pavers, and brick offer a durable and low-maintenance option for screen porch flooring. These materials can be expensive but will last a long time with minimal upkeep. You can opt for these materials if your screened porch is at ground level, but decking is the norm if your porch is raised off the ground. The downsides? These materials can be hot to the touch in direct sunlight. They can also be uncomfortable when walking on them with bare feet, so you may want to consider adding an outdoor rug for comfort.

Conclusion

When choosing the right screen porch material, there are many factors to consider. You will need to decide what type of screening you want, as well as what framing and flooring material will best suit your needs.

The many screen porch options on the market can be overwhelming, but by working with the right contractor and taking the time to research, you can find the ideal materials for your screened porch.

Thinking about hiring a custom deck builder? There are many things you should keep in mind before making a move. Read this article about “What To Know Before Hiring A Custom Deck Builder.“

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