Shorter days and cooler temperatures are approaching in Virginia. If you’ve got a screened porch, there are ways you can adapt it to make it more livable in the winter — or at least keep it dry and reduce the amount of cold air circulating through it. There are a number of options to choose from, depending on your preferences, your style and how much spare time and money you have to complete the job.
Read on to discover the reasons you should winterize your porch and our top four methods for keeping the heat inside your porch.
Why Adapt Your Porch for the Winter Months?
A screened porch is an awesome structure that lets you use your outdoor space and patio while enjoying protection from the weather. This type of porch is best from early spring through summer but doesn’t usually stand up to year-long use. However, there are solutions to protect your porch from the wind and cold. If cost isn’t an issue, you can completely secure your porch by upgrading to a sunroom or four-season room and enjoy warmth and comfort throughout the year.
Whether you attach screens, curtains, panels or sheets or simply clean and seal the porch, the result isn’t just a cozier space. Winterizing your porch will help you preserve it and make sure you get the most out of your investment.
As the leaves turn and the sun melts away, PWHI is here to help with ideas on how to winterize your porch
And when the sun comes out, PWHI is the leading contractor in Maryland/Virginia
When Should You Prepare for Colder Months?
We’d recommend you start thinking about preparing your porch for winter in September or October. Get the materials you need, take measurements of everything, give the patio, walls, floors, doors and furniture a thorough clean and plan the installation for early November.
Options for Winterizing Your Screened Porch
A screened porch is great for any family as it protects you from the elements while you enjoy the view of the outdoors and the comfort of the indoors. Keeping it dry and protecting it against the cold during winter is an essential maintenance task to preserve your investment, but you might also be able to make your porch livable for those warmer winter days. Below are the most popular methods for winterizing it without needing a screened-in porch builder.
1. Use Vinyl Sheeting
Clear vinyl sheets are an even better way to winterize your porch because you completely seal off the screens with plastic sheeting. You’ll need to measure each screen and use a razor knife to cut the sheets to size. We’d also recommend using Velcro tape to fix them to the wall to avoid damaging your porch. Because it seals the structure, sheeting keeps cold air, pollen, wind and other undesirables out. However, if you don’t use sheets that are thick and durable, wind and debris could damage them.
2. Install Vinyl or Acrylic Panels
The most effective DIY method is to install acrylic or vinyl screens — although it’s also the most time-consuming option. Panels are also the most attractive option and pretty much make your porch into a three-season room. You can reuse the panels for many years, and they almost completely protect your porch and patio from the winter elements. Most people opt to build their own storm windows and store the panels there throughout the rest of the year.
3. Add Outdoor Rugs for Insulation
You might consider adding heavy outdoor rugs or mats to provide a level of insulation on the floor. It can keep the area more comfortable and prevent cold air from rising through your porch’s floor. Adding the rugs can make being in the screened-in porch a little more comfortable on chilly days.
4. Use a Space Heater
Adding a portable space heater to your porch is another simple and cost-effective way to increase the heat inside the porch. Be aware of your space heater’s safety features to avoid any mishaps. Look for models with automatic shut-off, tip-over protection, and are rated for outdoor use. One nice thing about space heaters is they provide heat on demand.
5. Thoroughly Clean Your Porch
We’d recommend cleaning your porch well before and after your weatherization efforts. The cleaner it is, the less likely it is to attract mold, mildew, and rust during the colder months. Regular maintenance will make sure your weatherization efforts last longer.
6. Winterize Furniture, Fixtures, and Fittings
Be sure to remove any furniture that’s made from untreated wood or delicate fabric to preserve it. Look for cracks and gaps in the walls, and be sure to periodically weatherize your door. Add a layer of waterproof sealant to fight humidity and keep the area fresh. Finally, make sure your electrical outlets are safe and rated for outdoor use, and add outlet covers.
How to Winterize Your Porch With a Screened Porch Contractor
Hiring a professional screened-in porch contractor, like Prince William Home Improvement, takes the hassle out of winterizing your porch and ensures the job is done right. Contractors have the experience, tools, and materials to create a warm, functional space tailored to your needs.
1. Screened Porch Builders Can Make Custom Acrylic or Vinyl Panels
A screened porch contractor can install high-quality, custom-fit vinyl or acrylic panels that seal your porch against wind, rain, and cold air while maintaining visibility and light. These panels are durable, reusable, and enhance the overall look of your porch.
2. Hire a Screened Porch Contractor for Professional Heating Solutions
A professional can integrate built-in heating options like ceiling-mounted infrared heaters or outdoor fireplaces, turning your porch into a cozy winter retreat.
3. Transform Your Screened-In Porch
Panels can be expensive and take a significant amount of time, so it might be worth hiring a contractor to convert your screened porch to a three—or four-season room. You could also simply swap out the windows for more durable, weatherproof ones—or you could go all out and start again from scratch.
Which Option Is Best for Your Budget?
If cost is an issue, you can easily and affordably test out the first two options. They might not allow you to use your porch throughout the year, but they’ll keep debris, dust, and leaves out. If you’ve set some money aside for this project, we recommend getting panels installed or converting the porch to a sunroom.
Upgrade Your Screen Porch Today
If you’re interested in installing a screened porch or upgrading your current model so you can use it year-round, contact PWHI today. We’re an independently owned contractor located in Woodbridge, Virginia, and our team is passionate about delivering an exceptional job every time. Call us today at 703-972-6856 for additional information.
