As MA deck builders, we’re often asked our opinion of screen porch on the deck. We’re very pro-screen porches. We think they’re wonderful, and we think they’re wonderful for six specific reasons:
1) Screen porches provide shade. In Western MA, the summer sun can be intense. While that sounds wonderful right now, when March skies are cold and snowy, come June or July, you’re going to want a place to retreat from those rays. Some people can’t tolerate sun very well, especially if they take prescription medications that make them photosensitive. Having a screen porch means you can enjoy the outdoors without worrying about sunburn.
2) Screen porches provide privacy. Even if you’re the friendliest person in the world, there will be times you want to enjoy your outdoor living space by yourself or with your favorite people – and no one else. The screen porch defines a space that’s private yet outdoors, a very comfortable, relaxing atmosphere.
3) Screen porches keep mosquitoes and other bugs outdoors. If you’re worried about West Nile Virus, Zika, Lyme Disease, or any of the many insect-borne diseases that impact people and pets, it’s good to have a space that you can keep bug free. Screen porches provide a physical barrier that insects can’t penetrate.
4) Screen porches look cool. If you’re looking for a classic New England touch for your Framingham home, you can’t go wrong with a screen porch. The aesthetic of the screen porch can range from elegant and upscale to casual country. Let your creative deck designer know what look you’d like to have, and they’ll make it happen for you.
5) Screen porches provide a space to get away without going away. There are families who live in total harmony all of the time, without any conflicts or disagreements. For the rest of us, it’s nice to have a space to step away and collect our thoughts when things get a little tense. A screen porch is the perfect space to calm down, count to ten, and center.
6) Screen porches are the perfect setting for ‘date night’. When the kids are sleeping and you want to reconnect with your sweetheart, the screen porch is a convenient getaway. Light a few candles, put on some music, and enjoy each other’s company. Try it once and you may be hooked on screen porches for life.