How Much Does It Cost To Screen In A Lanai?

Lanai screen cost

The cost to build a screened-in lanai can vary greatly, and it also depends on whether or not you're simply screening in an existing structure. You may find that a screened lanai is also referred to as a patio enclosure, so make sure you do some careful research to get the best price. On average, it costs around $16,000 to build a complete patio enclosure. Of course, this price can vary widely depending on size, design, and more. Expect to spend anywhere from $1,600 to as high as $3,000 or so for your new screened-in lanai if you want additional customization. The average cost of patio enclosures calculates to approximately $22 to $75 per square foot, installed.

Individual features of the lanai, material, and labor are all part of the total equation when factoring in your costs. Be prepared to budget anywhere between $2,000 and $6,000 when planning your project just in case there are any overages. The labor for installing a screened-in lanai should be around $20 to $40 per square foot, on average. A covered screened in patio is closer to around $70 per square foot installed. Material costs alone can be as low as $2 per square foot to as high as $35 per square foot or more. If you are considering adding a metal roof, custom tile flooring, or other features, make sure you account for the additional cost in your budget.

Covered patio cost per square foot

As you explore the different types of materials used to build a screened lanai, remember that each type of mesh will have an effect on the cost per square foot. The cost of a screened-in lanai roughly costs around $4.50 per square foot for the mesh materials, not accounting for additional labor. For an average-sized lanai, expect to pay approximately $370 to about $500 for labor in addition to the materials. The installation company will need to inspect the area, apply for any necessary permits, gather the needed equipment and materials, and prep the area for installation. Once the new lanai is complete, they'll also need to factor in the cost of cleanup.

Screened lanai types and costs

Having your own enclosed patio offers a sense of privacy, and it's also a good way to keep pests like mosquitos and biting flies out. You'll find a lot of screened lanais in Florida due to the humidity and heavy presence of flying insects. That doesn't mean you have to live in Florida to enjoy the beauty and convenience of a screened-in lanai. Look for screen materials that will hold up well depending on the region where you live and other factors. Here is a breakdown of screen material and the average cost to help you determine which one will work best for your needs:

Aluminum and stainless steel

These materials are the most commonly used for mesh screens added to a patio or porch area. Both aluminum and stainless steel are exceptionally durable and won't corrode when exposed to moisture. The cost for this type of screen ranges from around $0.30 per square foot for aluminum and $1 for stainless steel, making both a fairly affordable option for a screened lanai on a budget.

Copper

If you're aiming for something more beautiful and high-end, copper is a popular option. This shiny material is gorgeous to look at, but it can easily become damaged when exposed to harsh weather. Copper is one of the most expensive screen materials, averaging at $6.50 per square foot.

Fiberglass

You see fiberglass utilized to make a wide range of products, but it can easily become torn when used as an outdoor screen. However, it's very lightweight and easy to install, so many homeowners choose this option. Fiberglass screen costs approximately $0.15 per square foot, making it quite affordable and easy to replace.

Vinyl-coated polyester

Another excellent choice for lanai screens is vinyl-coated polyester. This non-corrosive material is versatile and can handle heavy rains and wind without breaking or tearing. You can find this option at an average cost of around $0.60 per square foot.

Do some research and look for the various properties of each type of material to determine which one will suit you best. Much of this depends on where you live and the weather that your new screened-in lanai will be subject to. In addition to your material costs, you'll need to factor in labor and other materials like wood or steel that will serve as the frame for your lanai. It's important to note that a lanai is a form of a covered or screened-in patio that is attached to the back or side of your home. A covered porch is typically found on the front of the home. If you're having a lanai installed around a pool, your contractor will need to account for permits and other factors to determine the final cost.

Patio enclosure types

No matter what type of home you have, a patio enclosure can add value and make spending time outdoors a much more pleasant affair. Take a closer look at the different types of patio enclosures available to you can decide which one will suit you best in terms of aesthetics and functionality. Here's a breakdown of the various patio enclosure types to consider:

Full enclosure

A completely built structure that is attached to your home or placed in a separate area with a foundation, walls, windows, door, and a roof is a full enclosure. You can also request to have electrical and plumbing added to the enclosure if you wish. Expect to pay an average of $20,000 for a full patio enclosure.

Partial enclosure

If you prefer to have some of your patio open to the outside, a partial enclosure is best. A simple screen can be added to enclose the space, or you can add doors and windows. A roof gives you shelter from the sun and rain along with adequate shade while spending time outdoors. Partial patio enclosures can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 for most options.

Sunroom

If you enjoy the beauty of the outdoors but prefer to stay inside, a sunroom is an excellent choice. Many sunrooms are pre-made additions to your home and give you a climate-controlled room to sit and relax in the sunshine. Some contractors build the sunroom at their location, and then bring it to your home for installation. Sunrooms can be customized in a myriad of ways and will cost you between $15,000 and $22,000 installed.

Screened lanai

A lanai is considered to be a patio covering since it's designed to be an exterior extension of your home. Many lanais are used to completely cover a pool with a screen or mesh for pest control. The cost for a screened lanai ranges from $1,600 to around $2,019 depending on the type of material you choose for the frame and screen.

Screened in deck

If you have a deck on the back of your home, adding a screen will make this space much more versatile. The average-sized deck can cost between $1,537 and $1,882 to be screened in.

Pros and cons of screen lanai

Any home project has a unique set of pros and cons, and a screened lanai is no different. Take a closer look at some of the advantages and pitfalls of adding a screened lanai to your home.

Pros of screen lanai

Here are some of the most popular benefits associated with having a screened-in lanai:

• Shade and protection from the sun: If you're in a warm part of the country or a place with lots of direct sunlight, a screened lanai can give you much-needed shade. When you're enjoying your pool, having that extra shade can prevent sunburn and make spending time outdoors much more pleasant. This cover also makes pool maintenance a whole lot easier since you won't need to worry about branches and leaves. Although a covered lanai is great for shade, you should always practice proper skin protection and apply a sunscreen whenever you plan to spend an extended period of time outside.

• Safe: Any form of protection outside can increase your level of safety, and a screened-in lanai is an excellent way to keep animals and insects at bay. When your pool or porch is completely screened in, it keeps biting insects from bothering your family as you spend time in the pool. The lanai is also great if you live in an area with a lot of dangerous animals, such as snakes or alligators. The lanai will keep them from entering your pool or patio, protecting your loved ones from potential dangers.

• Year-round enjoyment: You can spend time in your patio all year round with a screened lanai. Add a patio heater and enjoy outdoor meals, even in the cooler months. A lanai can also keep your hot tub or pool protected from rain and snow so you can enjoy it any time of the year.

Cons of screen lanai

There are some downsides to having a screened-in lanai. Read on for a few cons associated with this type of structure:

• Limitations to your landscaping: When you install a screened lanai or another type of enclosure, it can limit the amount of space you have for landscaping. If you wanted to plant a garden, for example, you might not have the room once your lanai is added to the home. Since these enclosures completely cover your pool, they can limit the amount of lawn you have left. If plants are important to you, take this into consideration when deciding whether or not a screened lanai is right for you.

• Additional cost: Aside from the actual cost to install a new lanai, you'll need to keep the structure maintained. If the screen tears or you have roof damage, it's one more cost added onto the already expensive price to keep your pool in good condition.

• Cold pools: Shade is great during the summer, but it can also make your pool water a bit chillier than you're used to. Make sure you swim when the pool water is at a comfortable temperature, so you don't end up freezing cold when you take a dip. Use heaters inside your lanai if you're concerned about frigid air or water to keep you warm.