How Much Does It Cost to Enclose a Patio?

We all look for more reasons to spend time outside, but unpredictable weather and those mosquito-swarming evenings tend to deter us from taking full advantage of our outdoor spaces. By enclosing your outdoor patio or decking, you eliminate exposure to those pesky bugs, while also providing more shade and shelter from whatever Mother Nature throws your way.

If you decide to enhance your home with an enclosed patio, you may be wondering how much it will cost you.

Average Costs

There are so many factors that affect how much an enclosed patio or deck will cost:

• Size
• Roofing
• Flooring
• Enclosure Materials (i.e. screen rail, windows, etc.)
• Labor
• Complexity of Design (i.e. multi-level space, etc.)
• Additional Accessories or Embellishments (i.e. lighting, shades, etc.)

There is no “one-price-fits-all” estimate, since every enclosure is customized and built to suit a homeowner’s individual space, needs, and style. According to HomeAdvisor.com, the average cost of an enclosed patio can range from $2,900 to $40,000, depending on the above factors and level of customization.

As you begin to plan your enclosed patio or deck design ideas, carefully look at the space in which you want to enclose. By asking yourself some of the following questions, you’ll have a better idea how involved your enclosure will be; and therefore, you’ll have a more accurate perspective on potential overall costs to achieve it:

• How much of a space do I want to enclose? The overall size of your space will determine how many materials you’ll need and the amount of labor it will require. The larger the space, the more expensive your enclosed patio will cost you.
• Is there a roof already in place, or do I have to have one installed? If there is no existing roofing, your new patio enclosure will likely cost more to add this structural component.
• Will my enclosure require new flooring? In some cases, you may already have your decking in place or a slab-concrete patio that you wish to enclose. If flooring is already in place, your overall enclosure cost will decrease.
• Is my design complicated, with multiple levels or varying angles? Oftentimes, a more complicated design plan will require more materials and/or labor, which will increase the overall cost.
• Will I need to hire professionals to install my patio? If you aren’t sure of local building and safety code requirements and whether you need a permit, it may be best to seek the help of a professional deck builder. While this will increase your overall cost due to labor, you’re also ensuring your patio is secure and reliable for you and your loved ones. Plus, your deck contractor will know exactly the right materials that’ll help you achieve your enclosure goals!

Common Enclosure Material Options

Your enclosure materials will greatly impact the overall cost of your enclosed patio. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult knowing which material is best to achieve the look you want for your enclosed deck or patio:

Windows

One common option is enclosing a space with windows. Some enclosures sport floor-to-ceiling windows, while others require additional walls with large windows installed. Either way, windows typically allow unobstructed views while relaxing in your space, and some can even be opened to allow breezes through a screen.

These are great options for those looking to create a sunroom or three to four-season living space. While a windowed enclosure provides a truly usable space practically any time of year, it does tend to come at a higher cost.

Screen Rail

Another common option is to opt for screen rail to enclose your outdoor patio or deck. There are many different types of screen rail, including stainless steel, aluminum, copper, fiberglass, and more. Many of these materials have finishes or powder coatings that are weather and rust resistant. Depending on your desired material, the cost of screen rail can range from inexpensive to expensive.

Screen rail is a great option for those looking for a minimalistic way to enclose their outdoor space. Offering largely unobstructed views and breezes, you’ll feel like you’re practically outdoors without the exposure to pests and inclement weather.

Benefits of Working with UglyDeck.com

At UglyDeck.com, we have installed and completed many customized patio enclosures and provided maintenance-free decking solutions for homeowners. We want to help you achieve the relaxing oasis you want with your enclosed patio or deck, and with over three decades of experience from the UglyDeck.com owners, you can rest assured that your enclosure will meet all safety and building code requirements, ensuring your new addition is both safe and stylish for you and your family to enjoy. Contact us today to learn more!