A patio is a great place to relax after a long hectic day at work. If you live in a warm region, then the temperatures won’t be much of a problem, but if you live in a place that can get colder and rained often then the concept of an open patio can seem a tad pointless. An enclosed patio makes you and your family able to sit and relax in the patio with more privacy and a leisurely experience, protected from the weather and bugs. But the main question is how to enclose a patio? Right? Don’t worry we got you!
In this article, we’ve compiled 5 of the best-enclosed patio ideas and highlighted everything you need to know to get started.
Read on how to enclose a porch cheaply and easily.
Why Consider An Enclosed Patio?
There are many benefits that come with enclosing your patio. An enclosed patio gives you a simple way of adding an extra room like you can turn your patio into a well-illuminated home office or a second lounge. Also, enclosing a patio Increases the lifespan of Your Outdoor Furniture by minimizing its exposure to external elements. If you leave your chairs, tables and rug outdoors for a long time, they’ll start to fade and deteriorate. Fortunately, a patio enclosure will keep your furniture looking good over time.
Furthermore, your furniture isn’t the only thing an enclosed patio can protect from extreme weather conditions. Another perk of enclosing your patio is that you get to relax in it regardless of the weather. When it’s raining, you can sit dry and happy, watching the rain from your enclosed nook.
When it’s raining, you can sit dry and happy, watching the rain from your enclosed nook.
Factors That Determine The Cost Of An Enclosed Patio
As with all home renovation projects, a variety of factors come into play when determining a patio enclosure cost. The main aspects of patio design cost include:
- Size
The biggest aspect that influences the cost of installing an enclosure is the size of the patio. A bigger patio will require more materials, not to mention that such a project will take longer; thus requiring a higher investment in labor costs.
- Choice of Enclosure
When it comes to patio enclosures, there are infinite options to choose from. The first, and most traditional, method is to put up a roof. The average cost we mentioned earlier largely relates to traditional patio roof enclosures. With this alternative, a roof is used to surround and cover the gazebo.
- Windows
If you live in an area that experiences heavy winds, ensure you go for strong and durable windows for your patio enclosure. A cold climatic region calls for double-glazed windows for better insulation. Keep in mind that high-quality windows will cost more than the conventional type.
- Permits
Each city and state has its own rules and regulations regarding building patios and patio enclosures. Most of them require you to have a permit for enclosing a patio. So before you start shopping for materials, check in with your local building department and go through the regulations.
- Consider zoning restriction
One of the most important factors to consider is zoning restrictions. If you’re unable to do a project by yourself, it’s often because you run into various zoning issues. To ease the process, always work with a local design and build firm that is knowledgeable about your area’s specific zoning restrictions and is comfortable operating in compliance with both legal requirements and a homeowner’s personal vision.
Advantages of Enclosing a Patio
Enclosing an outdoor space can take a lot of work, but it can also significantly increase the livability of your property.
Benefits include:
- It will be warmer in the winter
- You’ll reduce noise levels, which means less disturbance for or from neighbors.
- Increase the living space of your home by adding a usable outdoor area.
- Appeal to more buyers by adding another living area.
Disadvantages of Enclosing a Patio
- Enclosing a patio or verandah can be very expensive and costs can quickly add up which can cause problems if you don’t plan ahead and budget for them.
- The other main downside is that it takes up space and reduces your outdoor living area.
How To Enclose A Patio
Screened in Patio
This screened-in patio is beautifully enclosed with window screens all around it. This type of enclosure not only prevents the entry of bugs and debris but also lets in natural light. Another way to cheaply enclose your patio is by using screens. This kind of patio enclosure keeps your patio cozy because it still lets some of the air in, even when pulled down. Patio screens can also be made from wood or fiberglass, depending on what look you want to create for the patio.
Plastic or Glass Panels
Although they are more expensive, plastic or glass panels make for great patio enclosures. Since they are made from a transparent material, you can still enjoy the sun and the view of your yard when relaxing on your patio. Choose a high-quality plastic or glass patio enclosure that will last your home for years.
If you want maximum sunlight in your patio and still be protected from the rain and snow, this glass-covered patio can be the best option for you. This particular enclosed patio has clear lines that make it look elegant and sleek.
Insulated Curtains
Insulated porch enclosure curtains come in many sizes and custom shapes. Depending on your needs, these outdoor insulated porch curtains cover your patio so that you can use them in the winter. The insulated porch panels are made to your exact sizes so that they fit perfectly. After you are done using them for the season, they can be taken down and stored for the next season. Unlike rigid insulated panels, they are less expensive, easier to store, quicker to produce and faster to install.
Clear Vinyl Siding
Using clear vinyl to “wrap” your patio is one of the cheapest and most effective ways to enclose a patio during the winter season. But for this, you’ll need a patio cover or pergola. You’ll be adding vinyl siding to the sides of your patio that comes in rolls and needs to be cut and rightfully measured so that it covers different sections of your patio. Upon cutting the clear vinyl sheet, you can hang it on your patio with ropes and grommets.
Shade Screen
Shade screens aren’t just useful for blocking the summer sun- they can also add light insulation during the winter months. You can release them during winter or summer to cover the openings of the patio. And if the weather is not a concern, then you don’t necessarily need to release them.
Apart from the cold air slipping through, one other big disadvantage is that they will block your outdoor view. So, if you have a stellar and breathtaking outdoor view, then we’d advise you to stay away from shade screens for the patio enclosure option.
Conclusion
And that’s how you can enclose your patio. All you need to do while selecting material is to consider your taste and whether you want the outside view to be visible or not.
I hope we were able to help you out. Further Read out our blog Porch Deck Ideas To Prepare Your Space For Outdoor Entertainment, and create an incomparable experience.
FAQ
Few questions-answers to have clearer concept about hot to enclose a patio.
Do I need planning permission for a patio enclosure?
Answer: The answer will differ depending on what type of construction project you’re undertaking but it’s always advisable for homeowners to check with their local council first before starting work.
What type of cover can I use for my patio?
Answer: There are many types that may be used to provide shade above patios including a retractable roof or shade cloth with a roller system so it’s easy to roll back when you want to let the sun in.
What is the best material for an enclosed patio?
Answer: In terms of strength and durability, extruded aluminum is the best patio cover material on the market today. If you want to take your patio or deck to the next level while maximizing outdoor living potential, it’s all about choosing the right roofing material.
What is the difference between a porch and a patio?
Answer: A patio is usually found in the backyard. It’s often made from poured concrete or stone pavers. On the other hand, porches are usually attached to the front of a house and covered by a roof or awning. They’re usually built onto the house and are considered an architectural feature of the home.
