How to Choose the Right Screen Enclosure for Your Home
How to Choose the Right Screen Enclosure for Your Home: A Jacksonville Buyer’s Guide
Adding a screen enclosure to your home is one of those decisions that seems simple until you start digging into the details. Suddenly, you’re looking at terms like “fiberglass mesh,” “wind loads,” and “building codes,” and realizing… there’s more to it than just stretching some screen around your patio.
Especially here in Jacksonville, where the climate, insects, and hurricane season all have a say in how well your outdoor space actually holds up.
At Colonial Construction, we’ve helped homeowners all across the region turn porches, patios, and pool decks into something more usable. More comfortable. Something like an extended living space, without giving up the breeze and natural light that makes outdoor Florida living worth it in the first place.
So, if you’re wondering how to choose the right screen enclosure for your home, this guide will walk you through the essentials—what to expect, what to consider, and what most people don’t realize until they’re halfway into a project.
Start With the Purpose: What Do You Want the Space to Be?
This sounds obvious, but it’s often the step people skip.
Are you hoping for a breezy screened-in porch where you can sip coffee in the mornings? Or are you looking for a fully enclosed pool deck with protection from mosquitoes and harsh weather conditions? Maybe it’s just a modest porch enclosure for your entryway. Or something bigger—a full patio enclosure that turns your lanai into a true year-round room.
The way you plan to use the space, whether it’s for potted plants, quiet evenings, entertaining, or just keeping bugs out, should drive every decision that comes after.
Some homeowners want a completely open-air feeling with max airflow. Others are looking for a sense of privacy, or even something they can eventually upgrade with glass walls or sliding doors. There’s no single “right” enclosure. Just the one that fits your habits best.
Think About What You’re Working With
Not every space starts the same.
Do you already have a patio cover? A roof structure that can support screens? Or is this a screen enclosure project starting from scratch?
An aluminum frame structure with screened walls is a common option in Jacksonville, especially for patios and pool areas. It’s lightweight, durable, and stands up well to Florida’s humidity and sun.
That said, homes with more custom or unusual architecture may need a bit more planning. Complex projects—like those involving glass enclosures, multi-level decks, or wraparound porches—can still be done, but they’ll require custom framing and careful alignment with your home’s design and drainage layout.
Also worth mentioning: if you’re near the Intracoastal or dealing with salty air, environmental factors like corrosion can be a critical factor in choosing materials and finishes.
Know Your Screen Types (Because They’re Not All the Same)
Let’s talk screen meshes, something you probably haven’t thought much about… until now.
There are quite a few types out there. And while they all kinda look the same from a distance, they behave differently once installed.
Here are a few of the common materials and how they perform:
1. Fiberglass Screens
These are probably the most popular options for screen porches and patio enclosures. They’re flexible, cost-effective, and don’t crease. A good middle ground for most uses.
But—fiberglass can stretch or tear more easily over time, especially if it’s not maintained. And in areas with high winds, it may not hold up as well as other types.
2. Aluminum Screens
These are stronger and more rigid. They tend to last longer and resist sagging better than fiberglass. If you live in a windier area of Jacksonville, this might be a smarter long-term choice.
Downside? Aluminum screens can dent more easily and are a bit harder to work with during the installation process. Also, they can corrode over time without proper coating, especially in coastal neighborhoods.
3. Specialty Screens
Some homeowners opt for specialty screens that reduce glare, block UV rays, or provide more protection from insects, even the tiny ones like no-see-ums.
There are even retractable screens, which can be pulled down when needed and tucked away when not. Not always necessary, but great if you’re looking for flexibility in how enclosed the space feels day to day.
Each type of screen has its place. The key is matching it to your actual needs, not just the default that most contractors quote.
Local Building Codes & Permits Matter More Than You Think
We hate to say it, but this is often where homeowners get surprised.
Yes, building codes apply to screen enclosures, even if you’re not adding plumbing or wiring. Especially if it’s a permanent structure or attached to your home.
In Jacksonville, you’ll need to make sure your enclosure complies with:
- Local wind load requirements (hurricane season matters)
- Drainage and water runoff rules
- Foundation and attachment standards
- Property line setback regulations
Some neighborhoods, especially those with HOAs, have their own rules about structure height, materials, and even the type of screen you can use.
A good contractor will handle the permit applications and ensure everything is up to code. But it’s always worth asking about timelines. Permits can take time, and depending on your project size, that wait could affect when construction actually starts.
Professional Installation vs DIY: What’s Really Worth It?
We get this question a lot: Can I just install a screen enclosure myself?
Technically, yes. If you’re handy, have the right tools, and are sticking to something small, like a screened-in porch or a basic enclosure under an existing cover, you could try it.
But for most people? Especially those considering pool enclosures, larger patio enclosures, or anything with custom framing? It’s not worth the gamble.
Why?
- Proper sealing and tensioning of screens isn’t easy
- Framing must be level and anchored for wind loads
- Mistakes can void the warranty or violate the building code
- A poorly built enclosure may only last a few years
Professional installation isn’t just about speed—it’s about getting something that’s structurally sound, safe, and guaranteed to last. Most homeowners who start DIY end up calling us halfway through, usually after a frustrating weekend and a few bent pieces of aluminum.
Aesthetics, Light, and Comfort: The Overlooked Details
It’s easy to focus on the technical stuff and forget the things that actually affect how the space feels.
Things like:
- How much natural light do you want?
- Do you need extra privacy from neighbors?
- Will the space get enough airflow with the screens up?
- What color frame works best with your exterior?
You may also want to think about lighting fixtures, fans, or even integrated speakers. These aren’t required, of course. But if you’re planning this as a true outdoor living space, not just a bug screen, the little touches matter.
Some clients add curtains, others go for darker screening products to block sun glare. We’ve even installed small water features inside enclosures for ambiance (not common, but interesting). Your preferences—your personal preferences—should guide how the space turns out.
Maintenance: It’s Easier Than You Think
Screen enclosures don’t need a lot, but they do need something.
Here’s what we usually recommend:
- Regular cleaning every few months with a soft brush and mild soap
- Rinsing down debris, especially after storms
- Inspecting for tears or sagging screen areas annually
- Checking fasteners and frame joints for corrosion
If you have, you’ll want to clean the tracks and avoid any buildup that could affect movement.
The upside? A well-built, well-maintained screen enclosure can last 10–20 years or more. Most repairs are small and inexpensive, provided they’re caught early.
So, How to Choose the Right Screen Enclosure for Your Home?
It all depends—on your home, your goals, and how you plan to use the space. Some homeowners start out thinking they just need a basic bug screen, and end up creating a full extra room. Others want something simple: a private nook off the kitchen, low-maintenance and peaceful.
The truth is, how to choose the right screen enclosure for your home isn’t about checking off boxes. It’s about the little decisions—materials, mesh type, frame color, layout—that come together to create a space that fits your life.
At Colonial Construction, we don’t believe in cookie-cutter enclosures. We’ve worked on everything from compact front porches to sprawling backyard entertaining spaces. And we know that Jacksonville homeowners face unique challenges—from hurricanes to humidity, salt air to sandy soil.
We walk you through every step: from first ideas to final inspection. Whether you’re working with a blank slab or retrofitting an existing patio, we’ll help you find the right approach, with no guesswork.
Ready to Start Your Enclosure Project?
If you’re thinking about improving your outdoor space, now’s a good time to explore your options. Screen enclosures add real value—not just in resale, but in daily life.
Contact Colonial Construction for a free consultation. We’ll help you plan something functional, attractive, and built to last.
Because your outdoor space should feel like part of your home, not something you only use when the weather cooperates.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the best type of screen for a patio enclosure in Jacksonville?
The best screen depends on your needs. Fiberglass screens are affordable and popular for most patio enclosures, while aluminum screens offer better durability in windy areas. For added comfort, some homeowners choose specialty screens that block UV rays or reduce glare.
2. Do I need a permit to build a screen enclosure in Jacksonville, Florida?
Yes, most screen enclosure projects require a building permit. Local building codes in Jacksonville cover wind resistance, structural safety, and drainage. Working with a contractor like Colonial Construction helps ensure your project meets all city and county regulations.
3. How long does it take to install a screen enclosure?
It depends on the size and complexity of the project. A basic patio screen enclosure might take a few days, while complex projects, like pool enclosures or custom-designed spaces, can take a few weeks, especially if permitting takes longer.
4. Can a screen enclosure protect my outdoor space from harsh weather?
A well-built screen enclosure can offer some protection from wind, rain, and sun, but it’s not meant to be a full weather barrier. For more coverage, some homeowners choose glass enclosures, retractable screens, or insulated panels to extend seasonal use.
5. What materials are commonly used in screen enclosures?
The most common materials are aluminum frames paired with fiberglass or aluminum mesh screens. Some higher-end options use glass walls, retractable screening products, or composite roof panels for added comfort and aesthetics.
6. How do I clean and maintain my screen enclosure?
Use a soft brush and mild soap to clean screens and frames every few months. Rinse off debris after storms and inspect for small tears or corrosion. With regular cleaning, most high-quality screen enclosures last well over a decade.
7. Can screen enclosures add value to my home?
Yes, especially in warm climates like Jacksonville. Screened outdoor living spaces improve curb appeal, increase usable square footage, and are a popular feature for Florida buyers. They’re a smart home improvement project with both lifestyle and resale benefits.
