Screened Porch

A screened porch is a covered outdoor living space enclosed with mesh screens on all open sides, providing fresh-air enjoyment while protecting occupants from insects, debris, and wildlife. The screened porch became a defining feature of American residential architecture in the early 20th century, particularly in the South and Midwest where warm, humid summers made insect-free outdoor living highly desirable. Before the widespread adoption of air conditioning in the 1950s, screened sleeping porches were common on the second floor of homes, allowing families to sleep outdoors in comfort during hot summer nights. Today, screened porches remain one of the most requested features in residential design and consistently rank among the top home improvements for owner satisfaction and return on investment. They serve as outdoor dining rooms, living rooms, and entertaining spaces that can be used from early spring through late fall without the nuisance of mosquitoes, flies, and other pests. Modern screened porch construction features durable aluminum or fiberglass screening, structural framing that accommodates ceiling fans and lighting, and finishes that complement the home's architecture. Many homeowners enhance their screened porches with features like outdoor fireplaces, televisions, and weatherproof furniture to create fully appointed outdoor rooms.