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Porches & Decks Design Dilemma

3-season vs. Screened Porch for new build in Northern US climate

3 years ago

Hi all. I've read previous posts on this topic, and know that ultimately it's a very personal decision. I'm curious if any homeowners in northern climates (we live in northern New England) could share their experiences with a 3-season (with EZE breeze 4-track, R-30 insulation in ceiling, 30" kneewalls, and floors) vs. a screen porch (with PVC deck).

We have 3 kids under 12 and a dog, and the porch will face north/northwest towards the woods behind our new house. We are "hearty" people, and outdoors nearly every day regardless of the weather, and raising our kids to be that way. We don't want a 4-season because we don't need the living space and want the porch to be a connection to, and transition from, the outside. A place where we can eat outside as long as possible without bugs, and to put muddy boots and wipe off the dog before entering into our living room (where the porch is connected). Our builder is quoting us a difference of only $8K to upgrade from the screen porch to the 3-season with the features mentioned above. Also getting a quote on cost to put in a small gas fireplace.

I'm inclined to "go for it" with the upgrades to get 1-2 months more out of the porch, but would love to hear thoughts/experiences from folks living in the north country. Thanks!

Featured Answer

Jeanne Cardwell

3 years ago

Two extra months at each end of summer, and you will enjoy using it on rainy, windy days in summer.

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Comments (6)

Jeanne Cardwell
3 years ago
I converted my screened in porch to single paned glass with a screen insert. It faces southwest so lots of sun in afternoon. I use it daily from April 1 until November 1. I live in SW Rhode Island.
Scott thanked Jeanne Cardwell
originaltuckerdc
3 years ago
last modified: 3 years ago
Northeast Wisconsin here. (We're sposed to get sub-zero nighttime temps this w/e.) I have a three-season w a Hearthstone propane 'fireplace.' No other winterization and wraparound windows. But, I love it! That said, it's pretty much out of use from December thru March. But it's the highlight of my home spring through late fall.

When I win the lottery - (note to self: start buying tickets) - I would retrofit for heated floors (it sits above a bare-bones basement) and think about custom interior storms. But otherwise, all positive!
Scott thanked originaltuckerdc
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Ali Hacha
3 years ago
last modified: 3 years ago
My favorite room in the house is my 3 season room (we are in SE Mass). North facing and I use it from April-October (with a space heater on the tail ends). It is original to the 1960's house so not nearly as efficient as yours will be. Go for it, it's a steal!
Scott thanked Ali Hacha
oberon476
3 years ago
I am in Nortwest Wisconsin and i agree with the other posters - go for it if for no other reason than a 3 season room is more versatile than a screened porch year-round
Scott thanked oberon476
Scott
Original Author
3 years ago
last modified: 3 years ago
Thanks everyone...read so many posts saying a 3-season doesn't add many weeks to use in northern climates, but it seems like it's worth at this price even if it adds 2 weeks onto spring and to fall (or more) over the lifespan of the home. Thanks!

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