Have you been thinking about having a screened-in porch installed onto your home? It can be a great addition to your home, as it offers a wonderful way to enjoy the serenity and beauty of nature without having to sacrifice your body to various insects and other unwanted pests. If you love your backyard patio but are unable to use it once the weather gets bad, you may want to consider the below ways of how you are able to enjoy using a screened-in porch year-round. With just a few small changes, you can turn your patio into an extension of the home and easily use the enclosure throughout the entire year, regardless of the temperature and weather. 

Ceiling Fans 

Ceiling fans are beneficial during both the summer and winter. They are perfect for making spaces more comfortable, and they do not require a significant amount of energy to operate. During the summer, you will operate the ceiling fan on the counterclockwise setting in order to circulate cool air. During the winter, you will switch the setting to clockwise so that the ceiling fan will push the warm air down and circulate it around the room.  

Space Heaters 

As the weather starts to cool off, you can stay warm with space heaters. Make sure that you opt for the space heaters that have the built-in feature to stop working when they get too hot or get knocked over to avoid the risk of a house fire. In addition, it is a good idea to look specifically for space heaters that are made to be used outdoors to help maintain the safest and most comfortable space in your screened-in room. 

Propane or Gas Fireplace 

If you would like additional warmth than what a space heater can provide as well as a welcoming and visually appealing feature, you should consider installing a propane or gas fireplace to the space. You should avoid a wood-burning fireplace due to smoke and soot stains that could end up on the screens and ceiling. For a welcoming and homey feeling, you should consider having the fireplace installed in the very center of the screened-in enclosure, if space allows. 

The aforementioned are three great ways to ensure that you are able to enjoy your screened-in enclosure throughout the entire year no matter the season. If you would like to learn more about screen enclosures, contact a contractor in your area like those found at Aluminum Concepts of Florida.