New Addition Checklist: Planning for Your Screened Porch Renovation

If you’ve ever looked at homes in South Carolina, you’ve probably noticed that sunrooms and screened porches are a common addition to any home. Who doesn’t want a room filled with natural sunlight, open windows, and maybe even a little breeze, while still being inside the comfort of your home? A screened porch addition offers endless possibilities for relaxation, entertainment, and connecting with nature without having to deal with many outdoor elements. If you’re planning an addition to your home, you may be wondering what you can really do with your screened porch remodel. That’s why we’ve created a quick checklist to help you in planning for your screened porch renovation.

From flooring options to amenities like a fireplace, ceiling fans, lighting, and other key elements to create the perfect sanctuary. Now, let’s get started on your screened porch renovation!

What To Consider When Planning Your Screened Porch Renovation

Flooring

Choosing flooring for an outdoor space is quite different than planning a bedroom. You have to take into consideration the outdoor elements that may affect it. For example, if you plan on creating a screened porch, carpeting may not be the best idea as rain can still get into your room.

You also want to take into consideration sun exposure and temperature fluctuation. Tile flooring, luxury vinyl, or concrete slab with a nice outdoor rug are all great options to consider. They are not only durable but also easily maintainable. Depending on your price range, tile can be more expensive, while concrete is rather affordable all around.

Indoor-Outdoor Connection

You want to invest in a screened porch addition to be closer to nature, and we get that. If you’re looking to blur the transition between indoor and outdoor, consider a larger doorway to the room. An open plan is a great way to completely widen your space, giving the effect that your home reaches outside itself. However, french doors or folding doors are a great way to completely open up the room, while still offering the availability for privacy or a closed-off space.

Incorporating outdoor furniture options such as a dining set, lounge area, or planters can help make your screened porch addition feel more like an extension of your living space, rather than a completely separate room.

Insulation For Closed-Off Spaces

When it comes to renovating a home or adding a whole new addition, most forget about insulating the space. While a screened porch may not need insulation, a sunroom definitely will, allowing the room to stay warmer in the winter, and cooler in the summer sun.

It is crucial to prioritize proper insulation and climate control. This can be achieved by incorporating insulated windows, double-glazed glass, and weather stripping. These measures effectively reduce heat loss during the winter and minimize heat gain during the summer.

Fireplace

Now for the fun part! Deciding what you want in your new addition can be a slippery slope. This is where you have to consider how you will use your room. An electric fireplace is a great addition to add a little coziness during the winter months, making your porch or sunroom a year-round entertainment space.

However, keep in mind the dimensions of your space while deciding on a fireplace. You need to ensure that the space is large enough and tall enough to safely install a fireplace.

Ceiling Fans

Just as a fireplace can bring warmth in the winter, you may want a little extra airflow in the summer. Installing ceiling fans to create better circulation is a must-have in the South Carolina heat.

Choose energy-efficient ceiling fans with adjustable speeds and reversible blades to help regulate temperature and airflow year-round. You can even find fans with integrated lighting fixtures for added functionality and style. Or, opt for sleek, minimalist designs that complement your sunroom’s aesthetic.

Lighting

No space is complete without proper lighting. Yes, natural sunlight will play a huge part in the ambiance of the room, but what about after dark? Utilizing high-hat lighting, pendant fixtures, or wall sconces can add a classy look to your porch once the sun goes down.

You can even consider a dimmer switch or smart lighting controls to add flexibility to your lighting potential. It’s important to determine where you would like to place these lights before renovations, as electrical will have to be wired. However, side table lamps or string lights are another way to utilize artificial lighting without the need for additional wiring.

Functional Layout

What would you use your screened porch for? Make sure to plan a functional layout that accommodates your lifestyle and preferences before you allow the build to begin. If you are using this as an extension of your dining room, where will you place the table? If you’re incorporating a fireplace, how will you arrange the seating? This can help you later down the line if you decide to incorporate built-in storage solutions, such as benches with hidden compartments or wall-mounted shelving, to maximize space and organization.

Planning Your Screened Porch Renovation with Re-Builders

When planning your screened porch renovation, remember to think about the things often forgotten. Lighting, ceiling fans, or area rugs may be overlooked, but they can become an “I wish I’d thought of that” after the fact. Whether you’re seeking a cozy retreat for relaxation, a versatile space for entertaining, or a connection to the beauty of the outdoors, a screened porch or sunroom addition offers endless possibilities for transforming your home and getting just a little bit closer to nature.

From design to acquiring permits to project completion, Re-Builders can handle it all! We are here to help through your Grand Strand renovation journey. Contact Re-Builders to learn more about our home renovation options. Please give us a call at 843-448-0041 or request a quote here!