Swanson Construction and Development, Inc. - Premier General Contractor Wilmington NC

    Screen Porch Installation Wilmington NC
    Your Gateway to Outdoor Living

    300+ Porches Built
    33+ Years Experience
    Bug-Free Living

    Screen porch installation in Wilmington NC involves designing and building an enclosed outdoor living space with screened walls that protect against insects while maintaining ventilation and views. Professional installers assess the existing structure, obtain necessary permits, construct a durable frame using pressure-treated lumber or aluminum, install quality screening material, and add features like lighting, ceiling fans, and flooring to create a functional year-round space.

    Looking for screen porch installation in Wilmington NC? You're probably tired of cutting summer evenings short because the mosquitoes showed up. Or maybe you've got this perfect porch that could be amazing—except it's basically unusable half the year. Swanson Construction and Development, Inc. builds custom screen porches that let you actually enjoy your outdoor space without becoming a buffet for bugs or dealing with unpredictable coastal weather. Call us at 910-443-4113 for a free estimate.

    We've been building screened porches throughout Wilmington and the surrounding areas for years, and here's what we know: a well-built screen porch isn't just about keeping bugs out. It's about creating a space where you can have your morning coffee in peace, where the kids can play without you worrying about them tracking mud through the house, where you can host dinner parties even when there's a light rain. It becomes your favorite room—even though it's technically outdoors.

    Why Choose Swanson Construction for Screen Porch Installation in Wilmington NC?

    Here's the thing about building screen porches in Wilmington: the coastal climate isn't exactly forgiving. Salt air, humidity, sudden storms—your screen porch needs to handle it all. And that's where experience matters.

    We're a full-service construction company that understands how to build for Wilmington's specific conditions. We're not just screen installers—we're builders who know how to design and construct a porch that'll hold up year after year. That means proper framing, quality materials that resist corrosion, and attention to details that matter (like drainage and ventilation).

    What makes us different:

    • We treat your project like we're building it for our own home. We show up when we say we will. We keep the job site clean. And we don't disappear after the install—if you ever have questions or concerns, we're here.
    • We're licensed, insured, and local. You're not dealing with some national franchise that doesn't know Wilmington. We live here. We understand what works in this climate and what doesn't.
    • We focus on quality over quick jobs. Sure, we could cut corners to finish faster or cheaper. But that's not how we operate. We use pressure-treated lumber that resists rot, quality screening materials, and proper construction techniques because we want your porch to last.

    Ready to get started?

    Give us a call at 910-443-4113 and let's talk about what you're looking for.

    Benefits of Professional Screen Porch Installation

    A screen porch from Swanson Construction gives you more than just a bug barrier. Here's what you're actually getting:

    Year-round outdoor living

    Wilmington's climate is pretty mild, which means your screen porch isn't just a summer thing. You'll use it in spring when everything's blooming. You'll use it in fall when the weather's perfect. Heck, you'll probably use it on nice winter days too.

    Protection from coastal elements

    Living near the coast means dealing with salt air, humidity, and the occasional popup storm. A properly built screen porch gives you a protected space to enjoy the outdoors without the harsh sun, wind, or rain ruining your afternoon.

    Serious bug protection

    Let's be real: Wilmington mosquitoes are relentless. And the no-see-ums? Even worse. A quality screen porch with the right screening material keeps all of it out so you can actually relax outside.

    Increased home value

    Screen porches typically return 75-100% of their cost when you sell your home. Buyers love outdoor living space, especially in a climate like ours where you can use it most of the year.

    Lower cooling costs

    A screened porch provides shade and ventilation, which can reduce the heat load on your home. That means your AC doesn't have to work as hard during those brutal summer months.

    Safe space for kids and pets

    Your kids can play outside while staying protected from bugs and sun. Your pets can enjoy fresh air without the risk of running off. It's like an outdoor playroom that's actually safe.

    Extended entertaining space

    Want to host dinner parties but worried about the weather? A screen porch gives you the flexibility to entertain outdoors without stressing about rain or bugs crashing the party.

    Our Screen Porch Installation Process

    We keep the process straightforward. No surprises, no runarounds. Here's how it works:

    1

    Free Consultation

    We come to your home, look at your space, and talk through what you're envisioning. We'll discuss size, design options, materials, and answer any questions you have. We'll give you an honest assessment of what's possible and what makes sense for your home and budget.

    2

    Custom Design & Quote

    We create a detailed plan for your screen porch that matches your home's architecture and meets your needs. You'll get a clear, itemized quote with no hidden fees. We'll also handle any permit requirements.

    3

    Quality Construction

    Our experienced crew builds your screen porch using quality materials and proper construction techniques. We keep the job site clean, we show up on schedule, and we treat your property with respect. Most projects take 2-4 weeks from start to finish, depending on size and complexity.

    4

    Final Walkthrough

    We walk through the completed porch with you to make sure everything meets your expectations. We clean up completely, haul away all debris, and leave you with a space you'll love using.

    Throughout the process, you'll always know what's happening. We communicate clearly, we stick to timelines, and we're responsive when you have questions.

    Want to see what's possible for your home? Call 910-443-4113 to schedule your free consultation.

    Screen Porch Options & Customization

    Every home is different, and every homeowner has different needs. Here are some of the options we offer:

    Traditional Screen Porches

    Classic screened-in porch with framed walls, screened panels, and a solid roof. Perfect for year-round use in Wilmington's climate.

    Screened Deck Conversions

    Already have a deck? We can convert it into a screened porch, giving you instant bug protection and weather coverage.

    EZE-Breeze Systems

    These versatile systems use sliding vinyl panels that can be opened for full ventilation or closed for weather protection. Great if you want flexibility.

    Custom Sizes

    Whether you want a cozy 12x12 space or a large wraparound porch, we build to your specifications.

    Add-on Features:

    • Ceiling fans for air circulation
    • Recessed lighting for evening use
    • Electrical outlets for convenience
    • Built-in storage or seating
    • Screen doors (sliding or hinged)
    • Composite or treated wood flooring
    • Decorative elements to match your home's style

    We'll work with you to design a screen porch that fits your budget, your space, and your lifestyle.

    Ready to Enjoy Your Outdoor Space?

    Stop letting bugs, weather, and coastal elements keep you from using your porch. A custom screen porch from Swanson Construction gives you a comfortable, protected outdoor space you'll actually use.

    We serve homeowners throughout Wilmington, Leland, Carolina Beach, Wrightsville Beach, and the surrounding areas. If you're ready to add a screen porch to your home, or if you just want to learn more about your options, give us a call.

    Contact Swanson Construction today at 910-443-4113 for your free estimate.

    Let's build you a screen porch you'll love for years to come.

    FAQ SECTION

    What is a screen porch and how does it work?

    A screen porch is an enclosed outdoor living space with screened walls that protect you from insects while maintaining airflow and views. Think of it as an outdoor room that gives you the best of both worlds—you get fresh air, natural light, and the feeling of being outside, but without mosquitoes, no-see-ums, or harsh sun exposure.

    The basic structure includes a solid roof for weather protection, posts or columns for support, and walls made of screening material stretched across frames. The screening allows air to flow through while keeping bugs out. Most screen porches also include a screen door so you can access your yard while keeping the space sealed off from pests.

    In Wilmington, screen porches work particularly well because our mild climate means you can use them most of the year. Unlike up north where screen porches are basically summer-only, here you'll find yourself using it in spring, fall, and even on nice winter days. The roof protects you from afternoon thunderstorms, and the screens give you ventilation without running your AC.

    The screening itself comes in different materials—fiberglass, aluminum, or specialty screens like solar screening that blocks UV rays. For coastal areas like Wilmington, we typically recommend materials that resist corrosion from salt air.

    Screen porches can be built as additions to your home or as conversions of existing patios or decks. They can be simple or elaborate, depending on what you want. Some folks keep it basic with just screens and a ceiling fan. Others add recessed lighting, electrical outlets, built-in storage, or even outdoor kitchens.

    The beauty of a screen porch is its versatility. Use it as an outdoor dining room. Make it a reading nook. Turn it into a play space for kids. It adapts to however you want to use your outdoor space, just without all the annoyances that usually come with being outside in Wilmington.

    How much does screen porch installation cost in Wilmington NC?

    The cost of screen porch installation in Wilmington depends mainly on whether you're screening in an existing covered porch or building a completely new structure from the ground up.

    Screening an existing porch typically costs $2,000 to $5,000 for a standard 200-square-foot space. This assumes you already have a covered porch with a roof, and we're just adding the screening. The work involves installing framing, screening material, and potentially a screen door. This is the most affordable option and can usually be completed in a week or two.

    Building a new screen porch from scratch runs $10,000 to $35,000 or more, depending on size and features. This includes building the foundation, framing, roofing, flooring, and screening. Obviously, there's a lot more involved when you're starting from nothing.

    Here's what affects the final price:

    • Size matters. A 12x12 porch costs less than a 16x20. We charge by square footage, so the bigger the space, the higher the cost.
    • Materials make a difference. Standard fiberglass screening is affordable. Specialty screens like solar screening or pet-resistant materials cost more. Same goes for flooring—concrete is cheaper than composite decking.
    • Features add up. Want ceiling fans? Recessed lighting? Multiple electrical outlets? Each addition increases the cost. A basic screen porch with minimal features costs less than one with all the bells and whistles.
    • Existing structure condition. If we're converting an existing deck or porch, we first need to make sure it can handle the additional weight of a roof and framing. Sometimes existing structures need reinforcement, which adds cost.
    • Wilmington-specific factors. Building near the coast sometimes means dealing with stricter wind codes or using materials rated for salt air exposure. These requirements can impact pricing.

    Most of our Wilmington clients end up in the $8,000 to $20,000 range for a quality custom screen porch that includes proper roofing, good screening, lighting, and a ceiling fan. That's building something substantial that'll last for years.

    Want an accurate quote for your specific project? Call us at 910-443-4113. We'll come out, look at your space, and give you a detailed estimate with no obligation.

    How long does it take to install a screen porch?

    The timeline for screen porch installation varies based on project complexity, but here's what you can typically expect:

    Screening an existing covered porch takes about 1-2 weeks. Since you already have the structure, roof, and foundation, we're mainly installing framing and screening. Weather permitting, a straightforward screening project moves pretty quickly.

    Building a new screen porch from scratch takes 3-6 weeks on average. This includes building the foundation, constructing the frame and roof, installing flooring, adding screens, and finishing work like electrical and paint. Larger or more complex projects with custom features can take longer.

    The permit process can add time to your project. In Wilmington and surrounding areas, obtaining permits typically takes 2-4 weeks, sometimes longer depending on the specific location and project complexity. We handle all the permit paperwork for you, but it's worth factoring this into your timeline.

    Before construction starts, there's usually a planning phase that takes 1-2 weeks. This includes finalizing your design, selecting materials and colors, and scheduling the work. The more decisive you are about design choices, the faster this phase goes.

    So if you're counting from the day you call us to the day you're enjoying your finished porch, figure on 6-10 weeks total for a new build, and 3-4 weeks for screening an existing porch.

    What can delay a project? Weather is the main culprit. Heavy rain means we can't pour concrete or work on roofing. We also can't install screening in strong winds. Living in Wilmington, we're used to working around afternoon thunderstorms, but sometimes Mother Nature doesn't cooperate.

    Material availability can occasionally cause delays, especially if you've selected something unusual or custom. We try to order materials early to prevent this issue.

    Changes to the original plan during construction can extend the timeline. We're happy to accommodate changes, but each modification can add time to the project.

    Want to get started on your screen porch? The sooner you call, the sooner you'll be using it. Reach out to us at 910-443-4113 to discuss your timeline.

    What are the benefits of adding a screen porch to my Wilmington home?

    Adding a screen porch to your Wilmington home delivers benefits that go way beyond just keeping mosquitoes out. Here's what you're really getting:

    You'll actually use your outdoor space. Right now, your patio or deck might be sitting empty most of the time because bugs make it unbearable or the sun is too harsh. A screen porch changes that. Suddenly you've got a comfortable outdoor room you can use morning, noon, and night without applying bug spray or hiding under an umbrella.

    It increases your usable square footage without the cost of a full room addition. Screen porches give you living space at a fraction of what you'd pay for an interior addition. You can use it as a dining room, living room, home office, or play area. It's versatile space that adapts to your needs.

    The ROI is solid. Screen porches typically return 75-100% of their cost when you sell your home. Buyers in Wilmington specifically look for outdoor living space because they know how valuable it is in this climate. Your screen porch becomes a major selling point.

    Energy savings are real. A screened porch creates shade for your home and provides a buffer against direct sun on your windows. This reduces heat gain, which means your air conditioner doesn't work as hard during summer. Some homeowners see noticeable reductions in cooling costs.

    It protects you from coastal elements. Living near the coast means dealing with intense sun, salt air, and sudden weather changes. A screen porch gives you a protected outdoor space where you can enjoy fresh air without the harshness of direct exposure.

    Year-round usability in our climate. Wilmington's mild winters mean your screen porch isn't seasonal—it's a year-round space. You'll use it on pleasant February afternoons just as much as you use it in October. That's way more value than folks up north get from their screen porches.

    It creates a safe outdoor area for kids and pets. Your children can play outside while staying protected from bugs and sun. Your dogs can enjoy fresh air without the risk of running off. Parents and pet owners especially appreciate having this secure outdoor zone.

    Entertaining becomes easier. Want to host a dinner party but worried about the weather or bugs? Your screen porch solves that problem. You get the ambiance of outdoor entertaining without the usual drawbacks.

    Mental health benefits matter. Having a comfortable outdoor space where you can sit, relax, and decompress makes a difference. Fresh air, natural light, and the sounds of outdoors all contribute to stress reduction. Your screen porch becomes your retreat.

    Ready to add these benefits to your home? Call 910-443-4113 to schedule your free consultation.

    What's the difference between a screen porch and a three-season room?

    People often use these terms interchangeably, but they're actually different structures with different uses and costs. Here's the breakdown:

    A screen porch has walls made of screening material—basically mesh fabric stretched across frames. The screening keeps bugs out while allowing air to flow through freely. Screen porches have a roof for weather protection, but they're not insulated or climate-controlled. They're designed for comfortable outdoor living when the weather cooperates.

    A three-season room is more enclosed. It typically has glass windows that can open and close, along with screens. The structure often includes some insulation, making it more comfortable during temperature extremes. Three-season rooms offer better protection from cold, heat, and weather than screen porches, but they cost significantly more to build.

    Cost difference: Screening an existing porch might cost $2,000-$5,000, while building a new screen porch from scratch runs $10,000-$35,000. Converting a porch to a three-season room costs $16,000-$46,000 or more because you're adding windows, insulation, and potentially HVAC.

    Ventilation: Screen porches offer superior airflow. Breezes flow right through, making them comfortable even on warm days. Three-season rooms have windows you can open, but the airflow isn't as natural.

    Weather protection: Three-season rooms win here. They protect you from wind, rain, and cold better than screen porches. But screen porches still offer plenty of weather protection for Wilmington's generally mild climate.

    Usability in Wilmington: Here's where it gets interesting. In climates with harsh winters, three-season rooms make more sense because screen porches are unusable for months. But Wilmington's mild climate means screen porches work most of the year. You might skip using it on the coldest January days, but you'll get plenty of use from spring through fall—and even on nice winter days.

    Maintenance: Screen porches are simpler. Fewer moving parts, no windows to clean (inside and out), no mechanisms to maintain. If a screen gets damaged, it's relatively easy and inexpensive to replace.

    Permits and codes: Three-season rooms often face stricter building codes because they're more like interior space. Screen porches typically have simpler permit requirements, though you'll still need permits in most areas.

    Which one is right for you? If you want maximum airflow, love the feeling of being outdoors, and want to save money, a screen porch is the better choice. If you want to use the space during temperature extremes and don't mind paying more, consider a three-season room.

    For most Wilmington homeowners, screen porches offer the best value. You get most of the benefits at a lower cost, and our climate supports year-round use anyway.

    Not sure which option fits your needs? Call 910-443-4113 and we'll talk through the pros and cons for your specific situation.

    What type of screening material is best for coastal Wilmington?

    Choosing the right screening material matters in Wilmington because you're dealing with salt air, humidity, and intense sun—all of which can break down inferior screens quickly. Here's what works best:

    Fiberglass screening is the most popular choice for good reason. It's affordable, durable, and works well in coastal conditions. Quality fiberglass won't corrode from salt air like some metal screens. It resists tearing better than cheap alternatives, and it comes in various colors to match your home. Most of our Wilmington clients choose fiberglass because it offers the best combination of performance and value.

    Aluminum screening is tougher than fiberglass and can handle impacts better (good if you have kids or pets). However, aluminum corrodes in coastal environments unless it's coated. We use coated aluminum when clients specifically request it, but you need to understand that any scratches in the coating can lead to rust over time. For Wilmington, aluminum isn't our first recommendation.

    Solar screening blocks UV rays while still allowing airflow and visibility. If your porch faces west and gets hammered by afternoon sun, solar screening can make a huge difference in comfort and fade protection for furniture. It typically blocks 50-90% of sun and heat depending on the grade you choose. The tradeoff is slightly reduced visibility compared to standard screening.

    Pet-resistant screening uses vinyl-coated polyester that's much tougher than standard materials. If you have dogs or cats that might scratch or claw at the screens, this is worth considering. It costs more and is slightly harder to see through, but it's practically indestructible compared to standard screening.

    No-see-um screening has a tighter weave that keeps out even tiny biting insects (the ones regular screening sometimes misses). In Wilmington, especially near marshes or standing water, no-see-ums can be brutal. The tighter weave reduces airflow slightly, but the added protection is worth it for many homeowners.

    For most Wilmington screen porches, we recommend quality fiberglass screening. It handles salt air well, provides good visibility, allows excellent airflow, and lasts for years. If your porch gets intense sun exposure, we might suggest solar screening for at least the west-facing panels.

    Screen durability also depends on proper installation. We make sure screens are tensioned correctly—tight enough to stay flat but not so tight they'll tear. We use quality frames and splines that won't deteriorate in coastal conditions.

    How long do screens last? With proper materials and installation, screens in Wilmington typically last 7-10 years before needing replacement. Cheaper materials might need replacing in 3-5 years. Sun exposure, salt air, and how much you use the porch all affect lifespan.

    Want advice specific to your porch location and conditions? Give us a call at 910-443-4113. We'll recommend the screening that makes the most sense for your situation.

    Do I need a permit to install a screen porch in Wilmington?

    Yes, you typically need a building permit to install a screen porch in Wilmington and surrounding areas. Here's what you need to know:

    New construction always requires permits. If you're building a screen porch from scratch—foundation, framing, roof, the whole thing—you definitely need permits. The building department wants to verify the structure is safe, meets wind load requirements (important near the coast), and complies with local building codes.

    Screening an existing covered porch usually requires permits too, though requirements can be less extensive than new construction. Even though you're not changing the structure itself, you're still modifying your home's exterior, and most jurisdictions want to review that.

    What permits typically cover: The permit process ensures your screen porch meets structural codes, electrical codes (if you're adding outlets or lighting), setback requirements (how far from property lines you can build), and other regulations. Near the coast, wind resistance requirements are particularly important.

    Permit costs in the Wilmington area typically range from $200 to $1,000 depending on project scope. New construction permits cost more than simple addition permits.

    Timeline considerations: Getting permits approved usually takes 2-4 weeks in Wilmington, though it can be longer depending on the specific municipality and how backed up they are. Projects in county jurisdictions sometimes move faster than those in city limits.

    HOA approval is a separate issue. If you live in a community with a homeowners association, you'll need their approval before building. HOAs often have architectural guidelines about style, color, and placement. Some HOAs approve quickly; others take weeks and require multiple design revisions. Check your HOA rules before getting too far into planning.

    Why permits matter: Beyond just following the law, permits protect you. They ensure your porch is built correctly and won't fail during a storm. They also matter when you sell your home—unpermitted work can cause problems during real estate transactions. Buyers' lenders sometimes won't approve mortgages if there's unpermitted construction.

    We handle the permit process for you. We know what documentation is needed, how to submit plans, and how to address any questions from building officials. It's one less thing you have to worry about.

    Inspections are part of the deal. Depending on your project scope, you might need inspections at various stages—footing inspection, framing inspection, electrical inspection, and final inspection. We coordinate all of this and make sure everything passes the first time.

    Building without permits is a bad idea. Some homeowners think they'll skip permits to save money or time, but it usually backfires. You can get hit with fines. You might have to tear down work that doesn't meet code. And you'll definitely have issues when you try to sell your home.

    Want to make sure your screen porch project is done right from the start? Call 910-443-4113. We handle permits, inspections, and all the regulatory requirements so you don't have to.

    Can you screen in my existing porch or deck?

    Maybe. Whether we can screen in your existing porch or deck depends on a few factors. Let me break down what we look for:

    The structure needs to be solid. If your existing porch or deck is wobbly, has rotted wood, or shows signs of structural problems, we need to address that before adding screens. Adding a roof and screening puts additional weight and wind load on the structure, so it needs to be sound. Sometimes a few reinforcements are all that's needed. Other times, extensive repairs are necessary.

    You need overhead coverage. Screens work best under a roof. If your existing deck is open to the sky, we'll need to build a roof structure first. That's totally doable, but it increases the cost and complexity compared to screening a porch that already has a roof.

    Height matters. We need adequate height to install screening without it feeling cramped. If your existing porch has a low ceiling or limited clearance, that can create challenges. Most screen porches work best with at least 7-8 feet of clearance.

    The footings and foundation must be adequate to support the additional load of roofing and framing (if you don't have those already). Sometimes existing decks were built with minimal footings because they only needed to support the deck itself. Adding a roof requires stronger foundation support.

    Existing railings usually need to be removed or modified. Most deck railings aren't designed to hold screening, so we typically remove them and build new framing that integrates the screens properly.

    Access is important. We need to consider how you'll access your yard from the screened porch. This usually means adding a screen door, which needs to be planned into the design.

    Flooring condition affects the project. If your deck boards are in good shape, we can work with them. If they're rotted, split, or deteriorating, we'll recommend replacing them as part of the project.

    Here's our process for evaluating existing structures: We come to your home, inspect the porch or deck thoroughly, and give you an honest assessment. If the structure is in good condition, we'll explain how we can convert it to a screened porch and what that will cost. If there are issues, we'll tell you what needs fixing and whether it makes more sense to repair or rebuild.

    Screening an existing covered porch is usually the most cost-effective option. If you already have a solid roof and structure, adding screens is relatively straightforward and affordable. You get all the benefits of a screen porch without the cost of new construction.

    Converting an open deck is more complex because we need to add a roof structure. This increases cost significantly, but it's often still cheaper than building a completely new screen porch from scratch.

    The good news: Even if your existing structure needs work, that doesn't necessarily mean starting over. We're experienced at reinforcing and upgrading existing structures to make them work for screening.

    Want to know if your porch or deck is a good candidate for screening? Call 910-443-4113 and we'll come take a look. We'll give you straight answers about what's possible and what makes financial sense.

    How long do screen porches last in Wilmington's climate?

    Screen porches in Wilmington typically last 15-25+ years for the main structure, though the screening itself usually needs replacing every 7-10 years. Wilmington's coastal climate does affect longevity, so let's break down what lasts and what needs attention over time.

    The structural components—framing, posts, roof—last the longest when built correctly. We use pressure-treated lumber that resists rot and decay even in humid coastal conditions. The roof structure, if properly built and maintained, can last 20-30 years or more. This assumes you're keeping up with basic maintenance like repainting or resealing when needed.

    The screening material has a shorter lifespan. Standard fiberglass screening typically lasts 7-10 years in Wilmington before it needs replacing. Salt air, UV exposure, and general wear gradually break down the material. You'll notice the screening gets brittle, develops small tears, or starts to sag. Some premium screening materials last longer—up to 12-15 years—but they cost more upfront.

    What makes Wilmington's climate challenging: Salt air is corrosive. Humidity promotes mold and mildew. Intense summer sun breaks down materials through UV exposure. Coastal storms can damage screens. These factors mean coastal screen porches need more attention than those inland.

    Flooring longevity depends on material choice. Composite decking can last 25-30 years with minimal maintenance. Treated wood decking lasts 10-15 years but requires more upkeep like staining or sealing. Concrete or tile flooring lasts even longer but costs more initially.

    Roofing follows standard timelines. Architectural shingles typically last 20-30 years. Metal roofing lasts 40-50+ years. Your roof is probably going to outlast the screening by a wide margin.

    Hardware and fasteners matter more than you'd think in coastal areas. We use stainless steel or coated fasteners that won't rust from salt air exposure. Cheap hardware corrodes quickly near the coast, leading to stains and structural issues.

    Electrical components like ceiling fans, light fixtures, and outlets need to be rated for damp or wet locations. Quality fixtures last for years. Cheap ones corrode or fail within a few years.

    What extends the life of your screen porch: Regular cleaning helps tremendously. Rinse off salt air residue every few months. Clean the screens with mild soap and water. Keep gutters clear so water doesn't back up against the structure. Address small problems before they become big ones—a small tear in screening is easy to repair, but if you ignore it, the whole panel might need replacing.

    Proper construction is the foundation of longevity. When we build your screen porch, we focus on details that matter for coastal durability: proper drainage so water doesn't pool, adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup, quality materials rated for coastal exposure, and solid construction that can handle our wind loads.

    The bottom line: A well-built screen porch from Swanson Construction will give you decades of use. You'll need to replace screening periodically (think of it like repainting—just regular maintenance), but the structure itself will last for the long haul when built right from the start.

    Questions about maintaining your screen porch? Give us a call at 910-443-4113. We're happy to share tips for keeping your investment in top shape.

    Will a screen porch increase my home's value?

    Yes, and the return on investment is pretty solid compared to other home improvements. Here's what the numbers actually look like:

    Screen porches typically return 75-100% of their cost when you sell your home, according to industry data. That's better ROI than most renovations. A bathroom remodel might return 60-70%. A kitchen remodel often returns 50-60%. Screen porches consistently perform better.

    Why the strong ROI? Buyers in Wilmington specifically look for outdoor living space. In a climate where you can use outdoor space most of the year, a screen porch is a major selling point. It's usable square footage that doesn't require heating and cooling, which buyers appreciate.

    The value boost goes beyond direct ROI. A screen porch improves curb appeal, makes your home more memorable to buyers, and can be the deciding factor when buyers are choosing between similar homes. Real estate agents will feature your screen porch prominently in listings because they know it attracts buyers.

    In the Wilmington market specifically, outdoor living space commands premium value. We're a coastal area with great weather. People move here partly to enjoy outdoor living. A home with a quality screen porch appeals to that lifestyle desire.

    Appraisal impact varies by neighborhood and home value. In some neighborhoods, screen porches are common, so having one just keeps you competitive. In others, a screen porch sets you apart. Generally, appraisers consider screen porches as contributing to overall property value, though they don't count toward interior square footage.

    The intangible value matters too. While you own the home, you get years of enjoyment from your screen porch. You host gatherings there. Your kids play there. You have morning coffee there. That daily quality-of-life improvement has value beyond just dollars and cents.

    Timing considerations: If you're planning to sell within a year or two, a screen porch might not make financial sense purely as an investment. But if you're staying in your home for 5+ years, you'll get plenty of personal enjoyment before you ever see the resale value. That's the sweet spot—you benefit from using it, and you recoup most of the cost when you sell.

    What maximizes value: Quality construction matters. A well-built screen porch that matches your home's style and uses quality materials adds more value than a cheap, poorly built one. Size matters too—a screen porch that's proportional to your home adds value, but building something oversized for your property can actually hurt value.

    Professional installation versus DIY affects value as well. Permitted, professionally built screen porches add clear value. DIY projects with no permits can actually hurt your home's value because buyers worry about quality and legal issues.

    Ready to add value to your Wilmington home? Call 910-443-4113 to discuss your screen porch options and get a free estimate.

    Can screen porches be used year-round in Wilmington?

    Absolutely, and that's one of the best things about living in Wilmington. Unlike northern climates where screen porches are basically unusable from November through March, our mild coastal weather means you'll get legitimate year-round use from your screen porch.

    Our winters are gentle. Sure, January and February have some chilly days, but we also get plenty of afternoons in the 50s and 60s—perfect weather for sitting on your screen porch with a blanket and a cup of coffee. You're not going to use it every single day in winter, but you'll definitely use it regularly during the mild days.

    Spring and fall are perfect. These are honestly the best screen porch seasons in Wilmington. The temperatures are comfortable, humidity is manageable, and you don't need AC or heat. March through May and September through November give you months of ideal screen porch weather.

    Summer requires some strategy. July and August can be brutal with heat and humidity. But here's where smart design helps: Install ceiling fans for air circulation. Consider solar screening on west-facing walls to block afternoon sun. Position the porch to catch prevailing breezes. With these features, your screen porch stays usable even during summer because you get airflow without bugs. It's still hotter than indoors, but it's more comfortable than being in direct sun.

    Morning and evening use in summer works great. Even on the hottest days, mornings and evenings on a screen porch with fans running are pleasant. You're not fighting bugs, and you're getting natural breeze—it's way better than sitting indoors.

    Rain doesn't stop you. One of the joys of a screen porch is sitting there during a thunderstorm. You get the sights, sounds, and smells of rain without getting wet. In Wilmington, where afternoon thunderstorms are common during summer, this means your outdoor plans don't get ruined.

    Compared to northern screen porches, which might get 4-5 months of use, you're looking at 10-12 months of use in Wilmington. That's significantly more value for your investment.

    Heating options exist if you want to extend comfort during cooler months. Some homeowners add electric heaters or infrared heaters for chilly evenings. Others install outdoor fireplaces. These aren't necessary, but they're options if you want to maximize winter use.

    The key is realistic expectations. Your screen porch won't be climate-controlled like interior space. Mid-August afternoons might be too hot for extended use, and mid-January mornings might be too cold. But you'll have vastly more usable days than unusable ones throughout the year.

    Most of our Wilmington clients report using their screen porches 9-10 months out of the year regularly, with occasional use during the remaining months. Compare that to northern climates where screen porches sit empty 7-8 months of the year, and you can see why they're such a good investment here.

    Want to design a screen porch that maximizes year-round comfort? Call 910-443-4113. We'll discuss features like fan placement, orientation, and screening options that work best for Wilmington's climate.

    What's included in your screen porch installation service?

    When you hire Swanson Construction for screen porch installation in Wilmington NC, here's exactly what you get:

    Complete project management from start to finish. You get one point of contact (us) who handles everything. No coordinating between multiple contractors. No chasing down subcontractors. We manage the entire project so you don't have to.

    Design consultation and planning. We work with you to design a screen porch that matches your home's architecture, fits your space, and meets your needs. We'll discuss size, layout, materials, features, and budget. You'll see exactly what you're getting before construction starts.

    All permit handling and paperwork. We prepare the necessary documentation, submit permit applications, coordinate with building officials, and schedule all required inspections. This includes dealing with HOAs if applicable. You don't have to navigate the bureaucracy—we do it for you.

    Quality materials rated for coastal conditions. We use pressure-treated lumber for framing that resists rot and decay. We install quality screening materials appropriate for Wilmington's salt air and humidity. All fasteners and hardware are corrosion-resistant. We don't cut corners on materials because we know what works in this climate.

    Professional construction by experienced crews. Our team has built dozens of screen porches in the Wilmington area. They know proper construction techniques, local building codes, and how to build structures that last in coastal conditions. You get skilled craftsmen, not general laborers learning on your project.

    Structural framing and roof installation (for new construction). If you're building a screen porch from scratch, we handle the complete structure: footings and foundation, floor framing and decking, wall framing and posts, roof framing and covering, and structural connections to your home.

    Complete screening installation. We install all screening panels with proper tension and securing methods. We include screen doors (your choice of sliding or hinged style). All screening is installed to resist wind loads and last for years.

    Electrical work (if included in your project). We can add ceiling fans, recessed or surface-mount lighting, electrical outlets positioned for convenience, and outdoor-rated fixtures that handle moisture. All electrical work is done to code and inspected.

    Finishing details that matter. We paint or stain as specified. We install trim and molding for a finished appearance. We ensure doors operate smoothly. We clean up completely—no debris left behind.

    Final walkthrough and project closeout. Before we consider the job done, we walk through everything with you. We make sure you're completely satisfied. We explain any maintenance requirements. We haul away all construction debris. We leave your property clean.

    What we DON'T include (but can add if you want): Furniture, decorative elements, outdoor kitchens or built-in grills (available as add-ons), specialized features like fireplaces or entertainment systems (we can coordinate these).

    Communication throughout the project. We keep you informed about schedule, progress, and any issues that arise. We're responsive when you have questions. We don't disappear for days without contact.

    Post-project support. After your screen porch is complete, we don't vanish. If you have questions about maintenance or notice any issues, we're here. We stand behind our work.

    Ready to see what we can build for you? Call 910-443-4113 for your free consultation and detailed estimate.

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