screen porch

AL C.

I am thinking about screening in an existing covered patio. I have gotten a materials estimate from a company that provides a kit. I have found it to be a bit pricey. I am considering using treated wood or cedar instead. Does the screen get attached to the wood or is there another method?

ocd carpenter

Here is one that I built



I build cedar frames from 2x4 to fit in between the posts. The screens are cut to size and attached to the outside of the 2x4s with staples about every inch. I rip cedar battens 3/8" thick by 1 1/4" and round over the two front edges. The battens are attached to the outside edges of the 2x4s, covering the edges of the screens, with brad nails and a continuous bead of clear silicone.

AL C.

Wow. Very nice. Thank you very much for the reply

joecaption

If you want better suggestions I'd suggest post a picture.
My favorite screen system is made by this company.
http://www.screentight.com/
Once installed the screws do not show, if you need to repair a screen just pop off the cover and remove the spline and install new screen.

There's also at least two companys that custom make window system with a film stong enought to withstand a golf ball strike. It's made in sections so you could open them up all the way from the floor to the ceiling and have just screen.
Now you have a 4 season room or can close it if it's raining.

carpdad

I have been leaning against wood because,
1. Screen frames are usually low profile, therefore, thin. Wood frame screen will stand out.
2. You want knot free, dry and straight grain to make frames and you'll waste a lot of PT to gain the frame material you need. BTW, I've never made light weight frame of anything with PT, so I have no personal experience here.
3. Cedar is expensive and very soft.
4. You may have to add supports, etc, to existing structure to hold the screen. You may not like the end result. Some personal experiences here.

For budget screen, I think the screen repair kits are pretty good.

joecaption

That's one of the two brands I was thinking of.
I've done two jobs with them and like them, then just moved into a home that already had them on the porch, we love them. It's now a 4 season porch with a full view of the river.

joecaption

Thanks, I've all but stopped doing anything but smaller jobs I can do myself but I'll keep it in mind.