Screened-in porch, from the inside looking out at the backyard
Ah, much better.

Convert Deck to Screened-In Porch

Now for the most important part: attaching the screen for this screened-in-porch! This process is kind of like upholstering. We have to pull the screen as we staple it to make sure we get it nice, tight and wrinkle-free. We use a hammer tacker, also known as a hammer stapler, which allows us to swing the tool to apply the staples.

We use lattice strips to cover the staples we used to hang the screen — it looks a lot better and makes the enclosure much stronger.

Then we install a screen door to match the one on the front of Emily’s home.

Finally, we screen under the deck to prevent pests from getting in that way.

We also:

  • Paint the deck and stairs
  • Install a ceiling fan
Screen porch, after installation
Screening in a back porch lets you enjoy the Great Outdoors without the bugs.

Post-Production Thoughts

Emily’s back porch was just the right size for her and Max. But it was showing some age and it was always hot and swarming with insects.

Not to mention the fact that the loose stair treads and handrails were a little unsafe.

This newly screened-in porch is more comfortable with a ceiling fan, and we’ve made it safer with new handrails, new balusters and by repairing those loose steps.

It’s also much more attractive, thanks to Emily’s cool color choices. 

And we spent less than $1,000 for all the materials.

Other Tips from this Episode

Setting a deck nail with a hinge pin

Simple Solutions
How To Fix A Deck With Loose Nails

Jodi Marks with Miracle-Gro vegetable gardening system

Best New Products
Best System for Growing Vegetables & Herbs Indoors
Emily Cottingham's screened-in porch, from the side view Watch & Learn
How to Screen In a Porch

 

More Inspiration

Editorial Contributors
Danny Lipford

Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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