5 Key Features to Include in a 10×12 Screened-In Porch

The art of creating a beautiful and cozy space in the courtyard of the house has become very important in today’s time. The porch has a special place in our lives, where we can experience comfort by connecting with nature. A well-designed screened-in porch gives a new dimension to your home. It mainly becomes a part of your home where you can enjoy everything from morning tea to an evening party. Let us know what features a 10×12 screened-in porch should have.

1. Strong Porch Roof and Structure

Sustainable Building Materials

The porch structure should be prepared using strong wood or aluminum. This material lasts a long time and can tolerate the effects of weather. Special care should be taken when choosing high-quality materials for the porch. When choosing building materials it is very important to consider the local climate. Use strong steel corners and joints that make the structure stronger. It is best to use treated wood for the porch columns. The depth of the columns should be at least two feet in the ground. The size of the beam and joist should be as per the building code. Be sure to get an anti-corrosion coating on all metal parts.

Roof design

The design of the roof should be such that it protects from rain and sunlight. The sloped roof can drain water easily and should be well attached to the main roof of the house. Small windows or vents can be installed in the roof for proper ventilation. The height of the ceiling should be at least eight feet which helps in good circulation of air. It can be made more attractive by installing paneling in the interior of the roof. Make proper arrangements in the ceiling to hide electrical wires. Do not forget to install gutters on the edges of the roof that will drain rainwater in the right direction. Recessed lights can be installed in the ceiling for illumination at night. Also keep the provision of thermal insulation in the roof design.

2. High-quality screening

Screen selection

The screen should be chosen very carefully as it helps to keep insects away. Fiberglass or aluminum mesh screen is the best option. Pay special attention to the robustness and durability of the screen. The mesh size of the screen should be such that even small insects do not allow it. Special strong screens can be used for pets. The color of the screen should match with the exterior color of the house. Use rubber gaskets on the edges when applying the screen. It is very important to put a water seal in the frame of the screen. Choose a UV resistant screen that does not deteriorate in the sun.

Screen protection

Kick plates or guards should be used to prevent damage to the screen.  Also keep in mind that the screen can be easily cleaned. Regular screen checks and repairs are essential. Extra support bars can be installed at the bottom of the screen. Pay special attention to the protection of screens from children and pets. Use a soft brush to clean the screen. Keep checking the screen in every weather. Get the screen repaired immediately if there is a hole. It is advisable to paint the frame of the screen every year.

3. Durable Flooring

Flooring material

Select durable and attractive materials for the floor of the porch. Composite decking or seeder wood can be great options. The floor surface should be slippery and easy to maintain.  Applying anti-skid coating to the floor is a must for safety. Use a waterproofing membrane under the floor. Be sure to leave expansion gaps in floor joints. Choose light colors to ensure that the floor does not get hot in summer. Use shimms to level the floor surface. Place non-slip strips on the edges of the floor.

Drainage System

The floor should have a proper drainage system. The floor should slope slightly so that rainwater does not accumulate. Regular cleaning of the drainage system is essential. The size of the drainage pipe should be at least four inches. The direction of flow of water should be towards away from the walls of the house. Place a mesh at the outlet of the drainage that prevents leaves. Clean the drainage system before the rainy season. Keep arrangements to melt the ice accumulated in the pipe. Lay stone or gravel near the drainage point.

4. Sturdy Doors and entrances

Door design

Stylish and sturdy doors should be installed in the screened-in porch. Sliding or swing doors are both good options. Install good quality hinges and locks in the door. Install hydraulic closures in the door that help to close gently. Put a rubber strip under the door that prevents insects from entering. Install a wind chain in the door that controls the door in strong wind. Be sure to install weather stripping in the door frame. The size of the door should be at least 36 inches wide. The door handles should be of ergonomic design.

Security arrangement

The doors should have a double locking system for safety. The door frames should be strong and durable. Use motion sensor lights for safety. A digital lock system can be installed in the door which provides additional security. Make a secret compartment to hide the key. Install a door scope or camera at the door. Install an alarm system on the door for safety. Arrange emergency lights near the door. Keep duplicate keys of all locks in a safe place.

5. Comfort and Decor

Selection of furniture

Choose weather-resistant furniture that is comfortable and stylish. A hammock, armchair and small table will prove useful. The arrangement of furniture should be such that it makes proper use of the space. Put rubber caps under the furniture that protect the floor from scratching. Use furniture covers that protect against dust and rain. Leave enough space between each piece to facilitate movement. Choose furniture with storage that saves space. The color and design of the furniture should match the overall look of the porch. Keep folding furniture that can be used when needed.

Lighting

The porch should have proper lighting. Install lights with ceiling fans. The porch can be made beautiful with decorative lighting. Connect the lights to a dimmer switch that can control the lights. Use LED strip lights that save energy. Turn on lights with timers that turn on-off automatically. Install emergency battery backed up lights. Opt for color changing lights for different moods. Up-lighting in the corners of the porch that makes the atmosphere more beautiful.

Conclusion

A well-designed 10×12 screened-in porch can become a very special part of your home. With the right materials, proper design, and essential amenities, this place will give you joy all year round. This will not only increase the value of your home but will also give you a chance to live close to nature. Make sure that there is no compromise on quality in its construction and pay attention to regular maintenance.