An enclosed outdoor living area allows homeowners to enjoy their backyard space with the added benefit of privacy and security. Two of the main options to achieve this arrangement are sunrooms and screened-in porches. While each option offers advantages, there are a variety of considerations that determine which one is right for you. Here's a closer look at the main differences between the two and how they should factor into your decision.

What's the Difference Between a Sunroom & Screened Patio?

Materials

As the name suggests, a screened patio involves adding protective screening and a roof to a porch to keep out pests while still providing ventilation. Sunroom design takes the process a step further with climate control. Instead of screening in the area, windows are installed, and the rest of the porch room's frame is insulated to combat temperature variations.

Installation

Factor in time and budget into your decision. Back porches that are already covered offer the easiest installation process, and consequently, they're the most affordable. Since most variations already include a ceiling fan or overhead fixture, additional wiring may not be required. Instead, the contractor only needs to finish the framing and install the patio screen and door.

If you're starting with a standard concrete slab, full framing, roofing, screening, and electrical work is needed. In such cases, the foundation needs inspecting before building begins to ensure a sturdy base. A sunroom, on the other hand, is more complex because it also requires tapping into the HVAC system and building an insulated frame.

Usage

While their installation is associated with more construction components, sunrooms offer the greatest utilization level. Since they're connected to your home's heating and cooling system, they're usable year-round. Screened-in porches offer a level of protection from the elements, but they're designed for warm weather.

There's also an in-between variation utilizing vinyl glazed sliding panels. The three-season rooms combine patio screens with removable lightweight panels for flexibility. This arrangement allows usage in a wider variety of weather situations than a standard screened porch without the added steps of duct installation.

Whether you prefer a four-season sunroom or a screened patio, get the enclosed outdoor living area of your dreams with the help of Aladdin's Glass & Screen Products. Since 1989, the locally-owned and operated business has provided reliable glass and screen installation and repair across Central Kentucky, including Nicholasville and Lexington. Learn more about their patio rooms online, or request an estimate today by calling (859) 887-4070.