How To Enclose A Porch On A Budget (FRUGAL OPTIONS w/ VIDEO)

In this article, we’ll walk you through five different porch enclosure options so you’ll never again have to wonder about what you can use to close off your patio or porch. You’ll be able to figure out which of these options are right for your needs and learn a little bit more about how to enclose a porch, too.

By the time you finish reading, you’ll know which type of porch enclosure is right for your needs and which one will fit into your budget well, too. But why would you even want to do this? Isn’t it better to just leave your porch as it is?

You may have your own reasons for wanting to close off your porch, but no matter what inspires you, read on to learn more about your options.

1. Screens

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Screens are a great old-fashioned way to enclose a porch. They allow lots of airflow and visibility without letting in bugs and other unwanted invaders.

Pros

Screens are fairly easy to hang if you have a little bit of DIY knowledge and experience.
Screens are, by far, the most affordable alternative for enclosing a porch or patio.

Cons

If the weather gets bad, screens are likely to tear, fall down, or otherwise become damaged more easily than some of the other options listed here.
Screens may not have the aesthetic appeal of some other enclosure options listed below, depending on your preferences and sense of style.

SEE HOW PORCH SCREEN WORKS:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRr2NMbOaYg

2. Shades

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If you’re looking for an enclosure that can keep the sun at bay but not entirely close off your porch, you may want shades. Shades are easy to install and work just like traditional window shades without preventing you from using your porch as an open-air one when you want to, also.

Pros

Shades are easy to install and fairly affordable.
It’s easy to find shades in a variety of different colors and styles to suit your needs.

Cons

Shades can be harder to keep clean and may need to be taken down for regular cleanings.
Shades don’t completely enclose your porch.

SEE HOW PORCH SHADES WORKS:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lh73uZrMHCk

3. Vinyl

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Vinyl sheets can be purchased in clear or tinted options to enclose your porch but still let in plenty of light. These are great options for sunroom makeovers.

Pros

Vinyl is durable and holds up well to weather.
Vinyl panels come in lots of different color options to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

Cons

Vinyl panels aren’t compatible with all types of existing porches.
Depending on how much space you’re looking to cover, vinyl panels can be a very pricey alternative to some of the other options listed here.

SEE HOW PORCH VINYL WORKS:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GJ5_tGMRLbQ

4. Glass Panels

When you want a true sun room experience out of your porch, you need glass panels for your enclosure purposes. These panels will make your porch look like it’s surrounded by big, beautiful windows, allowing you to look out on the world and enjoy a great view of your yard at the same time.

Pros

Glass panels are beautiful, elegant, and classy when they’re hung appropriately.
Glass is very long-lasting and holds up well, especially when you choose outdoor-appropriate glass panels.

Cons

It’s tougher to clean glass than most other options listed here.
Glass may become damaged more easily during severe storms or weather events like hurricanes.

5. Plastic Panels

Clear plastic panels can make excellent wall enclosures for porches, especially if you’re willing to purchase higher-quality plastic. Thinner plastic is only acceptable for a temporary fix, while thicker plastic will last many years.

Pros

Plastic panels are easy to keep clean by just rinsing them off.
Plastic holds up well against weather wear and tear.

Cons

The high-quality plastic needed for a job like this can be very expensive if you have a large porch that needs to be enclosed.
Plastic can look a little tacky if it isn’t hung in place professionally, and if it develops holes or damage, this is very obvious.

Why You'd Want To Enclose A Porch: 3 Reasons

There are several reasons why you’d potentially want to enclose your porch. Here are a few of them:

how much does it cost to enclose a patio

An enclosed porch is safer from the elements. When your porch is enclosed completely, you don’t have to worry as much about wind, rain, snow, and UV rays. While all of these can still potentially get in a little bit, depending on the type of enclosure you choose, the risks are much less significant with an enclosed porch.
Enclosed porches are free from bugs. Mosquitoes carry diseases and other bugs can be annoyances, but with an enclosed porch, you don’t have to worry about any of this. You can sit outside without concern and without being bothered by flying creatures, too.
It’s safe for pets and kids to play on enclosed porches. Your whole family—even the furry members—can spend time outdoors getting some fresh air when you have an enclosed porch.

Conclusion

Did you figure out which type of porch enclosure is right for you? When it comes down to it, the decision is entirely based on your preferences and needs. You can’t go wrong with a good old-fashioned screened-in porch, however, and if you’re looking for the most bang for your buck, this is probably the best way to go. A screened porch gives you plenty of airflow and exposure to the great outdoors without allowing in any bugs or much rain—although some moisture can get in. This is a low-cost way to enclose your porch, and repairing it is very simple and affordable too.

If you want something a little more permanent and something to add more value to your home, however, you may want to go with glass panels instead. This is a very pricey alternative, but glass panels can make your porch into something more like a sun room that your whole family can safely enjoy for many years to come.

Pick your favorite option from our list and get ready to have fun on your enclosed porch!

Last update on 2023-09-21 at 02:35 Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE, COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED ‘AS IS’ AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.