As the weather warms up and people start thinking about spending more time outside, many Jacksonville homeowners are considering ways to improve their outdoor living spaces. For many, this means upgrading their existing open patio to a more comfortable option, like a screened enclosure.
So, why are so many homeowners making the jump from traditional to enclosed? Specifically for Florida residents, the climate offers plenty of sunshine, but that means it also brings its fair share of sweltering heat, suffocating humidity, sudden rain showers, and an abundance of pests like mosquitoes. This is where screen enclosures really get the opportunity to shine.
Screened enclosures allow homeowners to maximize their outdoor spaces by offering protection from insects, reducing sun exposure, and allowing for more versatility and comfort than open patios could ever provide.
What are Screened Enclosures?
A screened enclosure is an outdoor structure designed to provide shelter and comfort while protecting your outdoor space from a variety of environmental factors. It typically has a sturdy frame made from aluminum or steel and mesh screens that prevent bugs and debris from entering your patio area. These enclosures can be made for patios, pool areas, gardens, or any outdoor space. It allows you to have that open-air feel without all of the harsh elements of the outdoors.
Companies like Screen Enclosures & More don’t use a templated design for screened enclosures, we create a custom enclosure based on your space and functional and aesthetic preferences. We can create enclosures for small, intimate spaces and larger enclosures for pools or multi-functional outdoor rooms.
Challenges of Open Patios in Jacksonville’s Climate
While open patios may seem like a simple and cost-effective way to enjoy the outdoors, they come with several drawbacks, especially with Florida’s climate. The Jacksonville area experiences a hot and humid climate with an extensive hurricane season, which comes with a lot of rain. This makes it difficult to enjoy the outdoors without a proper shelter or protection from the elements. Here are some of the key drawbacks of open patios:
Outdoor Pests
Our hot and humid environment is a breeding ground for all sorts of pests, especially mosquitoes, flies, and other insects. An open patio offers no protection from these bugs, which can quickly make the space unusable, especially in the summertime. Mosquitoes, in particular, cause problems beyond just being a nuisance. Their bites are irritating, uncomfortable, and can pose health risks. Open patios leave you vulnerable to these pests, making it hard to relax and enjoy meals or time outside.
Sun Exposure and Heat
The intense Florida sun can be a double-edged sword. While it’s great for outdoor activities and relaxation, excessive exposure can lead to sunburn, dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even serious health concerns like skin cancers. Open patios provide no shading or protection from harmful UV rays. As a result, you may find yourself retreating indoors or limiting your time spent outside especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Weather Conditions
Florida is known for its unpredictable weather, with frequent storms throughout the year. Open patios leave you exposed, and a sudden rain shower can quickly end your time outside. Without an overhead cover or some sort of protection, you risk getting wet and your patio furniture or decor could be damaged by the rain. As a result, your open patio remains a fair-weather amenity, limiting its year-round usability.
These challenges motivate many Jacksonville and Florida homeowners to seek a more reliable and versatile solution like screened enclosures.
Why Screened Enclosures are a Preferred Upgrade
Upgrading to a screened in enclosure has a variety of benefits that an open patio doesn’t offer.
Pest Protection
Screen enclosures keep the pests out, and the good times in. You’re able to enjoy a meal without being attacked by flies. You can watch the summertime sunset without worrying about mosquitoes. You can also relax on your patio or in your pool without fear of more dangerous pests like snakes or alligators invading your space.
Enhanced Comfort and UV Protection
The added UV protection of an outdoor screen enclosure is a great option for anyone who spends a lot of time outside. Unlike open patios that leave you completely exposed, screened in enclosures can help filter out a portion of UV radiation, reducing your risk of sunburn or skin damage. Screened enclosures do not block out 100% of UV rays (so make sure to still wear sunscreen!), they do provide significant protection.
A screened in enclosure also provides a shaded, cooler environment that lets you and your family enjoy your outdoor space for longer periods of time without the discomfort of direct sunlight. Depending on the custom enclosure you choose, you still have the option for little to no obstruction of outdoor views with all of the benefits of the enclosure, making lounging by the pool or enjoying a meal much more comfortable.
Privacy and Security
Open patios are exposed to neighbors and passersby, which can make it difficult to fully relax in your space. A screened in enclosure provides an added layer of privacy, allowing you to enjoy your time outside without feeling like you’re in a fishbowl. This is great whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying some quiet time alone.
Enclosures also had a layer of security for children and pets. With the screens acting as a barrier, you can ensure your little ones or pets are safely within the confines of your outdoor space. This gives incredible peace of mind, especially for families with young children and pets who like to play outside. Screen Enclosures & More can add extra stability and durability to your enclosure depending on your specific needs, ensuring playful pups or curious children don’t get out of your patio area.
Increased Property Value
While many Jacksonville homeowners choose to upgrade to a screened enclosure for personal benefits, they also add value to your home. Outdoor living spaces are highly desirable for homebuyers, and adding a screened in enclosure can boost your home’s appeal and functionality. Potential buyers will appreciate the added aesthetic appeal and the extra privacy, security, and comfort.
Comparing Costs of Screened Enclosures and Open Patios
While screened enclosures offer a host of benefits, they do come with an upfront investment that is typically higher than the cost of building an open patio. However, the long-term benefits and added comfort make the investment worthwhile for many homeowners.
The actual cost of a screened enclosure will vary depending on the size, materials, and complexity of the design and installation. A small screened in enclosure for a patio will likely cost less than a larger, custom-designed outdoor screen enclosure for a patio and pool area.
Even though screened enclosures have a higher upfront cost, they offer significant advantages in terms of usability, comfort, and durability than a basic open patio. They also allow you to maximize time spent outdoors and reduce maintenance costs of your outdoor space overall.
Choosing the Right Screened Enclosure
When deciding to invest in your outdoor space and upgrade to a screened enclosure, it’s important to choose the right type of enclosure for your space and your needs. Working with a professional enclosure company like Screen Enclosures & More makes this process much smoother.
Our team will come see your space and discuss your lifestyle and aesthetic needs in a free consultation. This gives you a chance to ask questions, and our professionals a chance to determine what type of enclosure will best suit your space. We will also talk about the material options, and create a plan based on your needs and budget.
From there, we will build and install your custom enclosure, ensuring you receive the highest quality customer service and finished product available in the Jacksonville area and beyond.
If you’re considering an upgrade to your patio space, screened enclosures may be the most practical solution. Click here to book your free consultation, and let’s transform your backyard into the perfect place to relax and entertain year-round.
