Open patio must be built so no water can rot the parts (esp floor - tile on slab, eg). Don't know if you'll like the look but you can install roll up screens (synthe bamboo looking) outside which should limit the water coming in. If too wide openings, screens can become heavy. Homedepot screens are bound to fail early, esp any hardware.
My plan (if deck turns into a roofed patio) is to have partial glass wall, using existing storm windows (when windows are replaced) and looking for used sliders for cheap.