Ezmeralda Lee is a published writer living in Upstate New York. She has been writing for more than 15 years and has experience with subjects such as business, management, computer programming, technology, horses and real estate, She has expertise in computers, home and garden, law and literature. Lee holds a B.A. in English from Binghamton University.
SUPPLIES
- screen
- saw
- 50 pressure treated 2-inch by 4-inch studs
- concrete
- 4 concrete anchors
- 4-6 inch bolts
- 14 sheets of drywall, 4 feet in height
- window trim for each screen panel
- A door and hinge kit
Overview
The summer months bring warm weather, which is perfect for entertaining friends and family and sitting on the porch and enjoying the time. Summer also brings many flying and biting pests that we could live without. Rain and thunderstorms are other summertime occurrences that make being outdoors difficult. To beat the bugs and weather, a screened in porch can provide protection and shelter while you enjoy the benefits of being outdoors. You will love this new addition to your home and use it often.
Step 1
Build a concrete foundation. Do this by digging a level square: a good size might be 12 feet by 16 feet. Make it 6 inches deep regardless of the size. Let this dry completely.
Step 2
Place one layer of 2-inch by 4-inch studs on the dry concrete. Drill holes in the concrete to insert these anchors, and then secure these with concrete anchors, one per corner. Use lag bolts to fasten the wood to the concrete.
Step 3
Make another layer of 2-inch by 4-inch studs and fasten them to the first layer by using 6-inch bolts.
Step 4
To make the frame for your porch, use 8 foot tall, 2-inch by 4-inch studs. Place them 4 feet apart. Also, nail 2-inch by 4-inch, 4-foot long studs between all posts. This makes the frame for your porch.
Step 5
Build the roof with tresses you either make with 2-inch by 4-inch studs or buy them ready made. Nail sheets of 6 foot long by 4 foot wide 1/4 inch plywood to cover the roof. You can use tin or shingles to completely finish the roof.
Step 6
Attach the screen to the 2-inch by 4-inch studs from the top of the rail up to the roof.
Step 7
Nail the 1/4-inch plywood to the bottom half on the outside. Inside, run your electrical wires and outlets where you want them. Then place insulation in this area and cover with drywall. Next, use decorative trim where the floor and walls meet.
Step 8
Make your doorway by using 2-inch by 4-inch studs and then frame it. Next, attach the door with the hinges on the inside of your porch.
Step 9
Frame the screen with thin strips of window trim. This will make it look more polished and finished.
TIPS AND WARNINGS
- TIP : Use paint to decorate and add your personal touch to your porch. You might want to use varnish to stain the 2-inch by 4-inch studs. You can even hang a ceiling fan in the middle. However, make sure you have enough room to get around on your porch.
- WARNING : Use goggles when using nails and saws. Wear protective gloves to keep from cutting your fingers. Use caution when small children are around.
