Transform Your Outdoor Space Into a Year Round Living Area
Your porch or patio has incredible potential. With a professionally installed lanai or porch screen enclosure from Auer Aluminum & Construction, you can enjoy beautiful weather while staying protected from insects, debris, and harsh UV rays. For over 40 years, we've helped homeowners create comfortable outdoor living spaces that enhance their homes and their lifestyles.
What Are Lanai & Porch Screen Enclosures?
A lanai or porch screen enclosure is a screened structure that extends your home's living space outdoors. Unlike a traditional open porch or patio, a screen enclosure creates a protected environment where you can relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors without the nuisances that come with Florida living.
These structures typically feature aluminum frames with high-quality screening material that allows airflow and natural light while keeping out mosquitoes, no-see-ums, leaves, and other debris. Whether you're looking to enclose an existing porch, create a new lanai space, or expand your outdoor living area, a professionally designed and installed screen enclosure adds both functionality and value to your home.
Screen enclosures are particularly valuable in Florida, where our climate allows for outdoor enjoyment nearly year-round, but insects and afternoon storms can quickly end your time outside. A quality enclosure solves these challenges while maintaining the open-air feeling that makes Florida living special.
Common Problems We Solve
Insects Ruining Your Outdoor Time
Nothing ends an evening on the porch faster than mosquitoes and no-see-ums. In Florida, these pests aren't just annoying, they can make your outdoor space completely unusable during peak seasons. You've invested in outdoor furniture and a beautiful patio, but you find yourself retreating indoors as soon as the sun starts to set.
A professionally installed screen enclosure creates a barrier that keeps insects out while allowing you to enjoy fresh air and natural breezes. You can host dinner parties, read a book, or simply relax outside without constantly swatting away bugs or covering yourself in repellent.
Debris and Maintenance Headaches
Leaves, pine needles, pollen, and other debris constantly accumulate on open porches and patios. You spend your weekends sweeping and cleaning instead of enjoying your outdoor space. After storms, you're dealing with branches, dirt, and everything the wind carried into your patio area.
A screen enclosure dramatically reduces the debris that reaches your outdoor living area. While some maintenance is still needed, you'll spend far less time cleaning and more time actually using the space you've created. Your outdoor furniture stays cleaner, and you're not constantly battling the elements.
Harsh Sun and UV Exposure
Florida's intense sunshine is wonderful, but direct exposure can be uncomfortable and damaging. Your outdoor furniture fades quickly, and spending extended time on your porch means sunburn risk even with sunscreen. The afternoon sun can make your patio too hot to use during the best hours of the day.
Screen enclosures provide shade and UV protection while still allowing natural light. You can enjoy your outdoor space comfortably throughout the day, and your furniture and décor will last significantly longer without the constant assault of direct sunlight.
Limited Usable Outdoor Space
You have a porch or patio, but you rarely use it because it's not comfortable or practical. It feels like wasted square footage, space that could be extending your living area but instead sits empty most of the time. You wish you had more room for entertaining or relaxing, but adding interior space isn't in the budget.
A screen enclosure transforms underutilized outdoor space into a functional extension of your home. It becomes a true living area where you can place comfortable furniture, create an outdoor dining room, set up a home office with a view, or design a peaceful retreat. You're effectively adding valuable living space without the cost of a traditional home addition.
Concerns About Home Value and Appearance
You want to improve your home, but you're concerned about making changes that might look out of place or won't appeal to future buyers. You've seen poorly constructed screen enclosures that detract from a home's appearance rather than enhancing it.
A professionally designed and installed screen enclosure from Auer Aluminum enhances your home's curb appeal and value. We ensure the design complements your home's architecture, use quality materials that stand the test of time, and deliver craftsmanship that reflects positively on your property. Quality outdoor living spaces are highly desirable features that appeal to buyers.
Our Lanai & Porch Enclosure Installation Process
We've refined our installation process over four decades to ensure quality results and a smooth experience from start to finish.
Step 1: Free Consultation and Site Assessment
We begin with a thorough evaluation of your property and a conversation about how you want to use your outdoor space. We'll discuss your goals, assess the existing structure, take measurements, and identify any specific considerations for your project. This consultation is completely free and comes with no obligation.
Step 2: Custom Design and Detailed Proposal
Based on our assessment, we'll create a design that maximizes your space while complementing your home's architecture. We'll provide a detailed proposal that outlines the scope of work, materials we'll use, timeline for completion, and transparent pricing. You'll know exactly what to expect before any work begins.
Step 3: Permitting and Preparation
We handle all necessary permitting and approvals required. As a licensed contractor (SCC131151645) with over 40 years of experience, we know exactly what's required and ensure all work meets or exceeds Florida building codes and wind load requirements.
Step 4: Professional Installation
Our experienced team arrives on schedule and completes the installation with meticulous attention to detail. We use quality aluminum framing and durable screening materials designed to withstand Florida's climate. Throughout the installation, we keep your property clean and respect your home.
Step 5: Final Inspection and Walkthrough
Once installation is complete, we conduct a thorough inspection and walk through the project with you. We'll explain proper care and maintenance, answer any questions, and ensure you're completely satisfied with your new outdoor living space. We don't consider the job done until you're happy with the results.
Enclosure Options and Customizations
Every home and homeowner is different. We offer various options to create the perfect enclosure for your needs.
Standard Screen Enclosures
Our standard screen enclosures use durable aluminum framing with traditional fiberglass or aluminum screening. These enclosures provide excellent insect protection, debris reduction, and UV filtering at the most economical price point. They're ideal for porches, patios, and lanai areas where you want reliable protection and comfortable outdoor living.
Heavy-Duty Hurricane-Rated Enclosures
For homeowners who prioritize storm protection, we offer heavy-duty enclosures engineered to meet Florida's stringent hurricane codes. These structures feature reinforced aluminum framing and can be designed to accommodate hurricane panels or shutters. While they cost more initially, they provide peace of mind and potential insurance benefits.
Premium Screening Materials
Beyond standard screening, we offer specialized options including:
- No-see-um screening with finer mesh for enhanced insect protection
- Pet-resistant screening that withstands scratching and impact
- Solar screening that blocks additional UV rays and reduces heat
- Privacy screening for areas where you want more seclusion
Roof Options
Your enclosure's roof significantly impacts both appearance and functionality:
- Screen roof for maximum airflow and an open feeling
- Insulated roof panels for weather protection and temperature control
- Combination designs with solid panels and screen sections
Door Configurations
We can incorporate various door styles including:
- Standard screen doors with self-closing mechanisms
- Sliding screen doors for wider openings
- French-style double doors for elegant entry
- Multiple access points for convenience
Custom Designs
If you have a unique vision or challenging space, we welcome the opportunity to create a custom solution. Our decades of experience mean we've solved just about every design challenge imaginable, and we're confident we can bring your vision to life.
Benefits of Professional Screen Enclosures
Extended Living Space
A screen enclosure effectively adds square footage to your home without the expense of traditional construction. This space can serve multiple purposes, outdoor dining room, home office, exercise area, children's play space, or simply a peaceful retreat.
Increased Home Value
Quality outdoor living spaces are highly desirable in Florida's real estate market. A professionally installed screen enclosure typically provides a strong return on investment and can make your home more attractive to potential buyers.
Year-Round Enjoyment
While open patios are only comfortable during certain times and conditions, a screen enclosure extends the usability of your outdoor space. You can enjoy it during bug season, after it rains, and even during mild weather when an open patio would be uncomfortable.
Reduced Indoor Cooling Costs
Screen enclosures can provide shade for windows and doors, potentially reducing your air conditioning costs. They create a transitional space that helps keep your home's interior cooler during hot months.
Protection for Outdoor Furnishings
Your outdoor furniture, cushions, and décor last significantly longer when protected from direct sun, rain, and debris. The investment in quality outdoor furnishings is better protected within an enclosure.
Low Maintenance
Compared to open patios that require constant cleaning, screen enclosures dramatically reduce maintenance time. An occasional hosing down and basic upkeep keep your enclosure looking great for years.
Enhanced Privacy
Screen enclosures create a sense of privacy without completely closing you off from the outdoors. You can relax in your outdoor space without feeling completely exposed to neighbors or passersby.
How to Know When You Need a Lanai or Porch Enclosure
You're Not Using Your Existing Outdoor Space
If you have a porch or patio that sits empty most of the time because it's not comfortable or practical, a screen enclosure can transform it into space you actually use. When you find yourself avoiding your outdoor area due to insects, sun exposure, or debris, it's time to consider an enclosure.
You're Spending Too Much Time on Patio Maintenance
Constantly sweeping leaves, cleaning furniture, and dealing with debris accumulation means you're maintaining your outdoor space rather than enjoying it. If weekend patio cleaning has become a dreaded chore, an enclosure will dramatically reduce this burden.
Insects Are Preventing Outdoor Enjoyment
When you can't sit outside during pleasant evenings without being eaten alive by mosquitoes, or when no-see-ums make your porch unusable, you need the protection a screen enclosure provides. This is especially true if you or family members have strong reactions to insect bites.
You Want More Living Space But Can't Afford an Addition
Traditional home additions are expensive and disruptive. If you need more square footage but don't want the cost or hassle of conventional construction, a screen enclosure provides additional living space at a fraction of the cost.
Your Outdoor Furniture Is Deteriorating Quickly
If you're replacing cushions and furniture every few years because of sun damage and weather exposure, the cost of a screen enclosure quickly pays for itself in preserved furnishings. Quality outdoor furniture is expensive, and an enclosure protects that investment.
You're Preparing Your Home for Sale
If you're planning to sell your home in the next few years, a quality screen enclosure can be a valuable selling feature. Outdoor living spaces are highly desirable, and a well-designed enclosure can help your home stand out in the market.
You Have a Pool and Want Additional Outdoor Space
If you already have a pool cage but want additional outdoor living area, a lanai or porch enclosure provides that space. Many homeowners find that while pool cages are great for swimming, they want a separate screened area for dining, entertaining, or relaxing away from the pool.
You're Concerned About Hurricane Protection
If storm protection is a priority, a hurricane-rated screen enclosure provides an additional layer of security for your home. While not a replacement for proper hurricane shutters or panels, a well-built enclosure adds structural protection and can accommodate hurricane protection systems.
You Want to Enjoy Florida Living Without the Downsides
You moved to or live in Florida for the climate and outdoor lifestyle, but the reality of insects, intense sun, and debris makes outdoor living less enjoyable than you imagined. A screen enclosure lets you enjoy the best of Florida living while minimizing the frustrations.
Why Choose Auer Aluminum & Construction
Four Decades of Experience
Since the early 1980s, we've been serving homeowners with quality aluminum construction. We understand the unique challenges of building in Florida—from hurricane codes and wind load requirements to the specific insects and weather patterns that impact outdoor structures. This experience means we anticipate challenges before they become problems and deliver solutions that stand the test of time.
Quality Craftsmanship, Not Just Quick Installation
We're not interested in being the fastest or the cheapest. We're focused on doing the job right. Our attention to detail, use of quality materials, and commitment to proper installation techniques mean your enclosure will look great and function properly for years to come. We take pride in our work, and it shows in the finished product.
Family-Owned and Locally Operated
As a family-owned business, our reputation is personal. We treat every project as if we're building it for our own family. When you work with Auer Aluminum, you're not dealing with a large corporation or out-of-state company, you're working with local professionals who care about the outcome.
Licensed and Fully Insured
We maintain all required Florida contractor licenses (SCC131151645) and carry comprehensive insurance. This protects you and ensures all work meets state and local building codes. We handle permitting and inspections, so you don't have to navigate the bureaucracy yourself.
Transparent Process and Communication
We believe you should know exactly what to expect from start to finish. Our proposals are detailed and clear, our timelines are realistic, and we communicate throughout the project. If challenges arise, we address them directly and work with you to find solutions.
Commitment to Making Things Right
Our job isn't done when the installation is complete, it's done when you're completely satisfied. If something isn't right, we fix it. This commitment to customer satisfaction has built our reputation over four decades and generated countless referrals from happy customers.
Comprehensive Aluminum Construction Expertise
While we specialize in screen enclosures, our expertise extends to all aspects of aluminum construction. This comprehensive knowledge ensures your enclosure integrates properly with your home and can accommodate future additions or modifications. We're not just screen installers, we're aluminum construction specialists.
Pricing and Investment Value
What Does a Lanai or Porch Enclosure Cost?
Screen enclosure pricing typically ranges from $15 to $50+ per square foot, depending on several factors. While this represents a significant investment, it's important to consider both the immediate value and long-term benefits.
For a typical lanai or porch enclosure project, most homeowners invest between $5,000 and $25,000, with larger or more complex projects potentially exceeding this range.
Factors That Affect Your Investment
Size and Configuration
Larger enclosures cost more in total dollars, though the per-square-foot cost may decrease with size. Complex shapes, multiple levels, or integration with existing structures can increase costs.
Material Choices
Standard aluminum framing and traditional screening are the most economical options. Upgraded screening materials (no-see-um, pet-resistant, solar), premium finishes, or hurricane-rated construction increase the investment.
Roof Type
Screen roofs are the most affordable option. Insulated panel roofs or combination designs cost more but provide additional weather protection and shade.
Site Preparation
If your existing porch or patio requires repairs, leveling, or modifications before enclosure installation, this adds to the project cost. We'll identify any site preparation needs during our initial assessment.
Permitting and Code Requirements
Permit fees and engineering requirements vary by location and project scope. We include these costs in our proposals so there are no surprises.
Customization and Special Features
Custom designs, multiple doors, electrical work for lighting or fans, and other special features increase the investment but may be worthwhile for your specific needs.
Understanding the Value
While the upfront cost is significant, consider these value factors:
Extended Living Space: You're adding functional square footage at a fraction of the cost of traditional construction. If you were to build an interior room addition, you'd pay $100-300+ per square foot.
Increased Home Value: Quality outdoor living spaces are highly desirable. Your investment typically provides strong returns if you sell your home.
Reduced Maintenance Costs: You'll spend less on outdoor furniture replacement, patio cleaning, and constant upkeep. These savings accumulate over the years.
Enhanced Quality of Life: The ability to actually use and enjoy your outdoor space has value that's difficult to quantify but significantly impacts your daily life.
The Cost of Cheap Construction
We've repaired and replaced many poorly constructed enclosures over the years. Choosing the lowest bidder often leads to:
- Structural problems within a few years
- Screening that tears or sags prematurely
- Frames that corrode or fail
- Installations that don't meet code requirements
- Contractors who disappear when problems arise
Quality construction costs more initially but saves money and frustration over the life of your enclosure.
Our Quality Guarantee
At Auer Aluminum & Construction, we stand behind our work. Your lanai or porch screen enclosure is built with quality materials, professional craftsmanship, and attention to detail that reflects our four decades of experience.
We're committed to your complete satisfaction. If something isn't right, we'll make it right. This isn't just a slogan, it's how we've built our reputation and earned the trust of homeowners for over 40 years.
Your investment is protected by our commitment to quality and our comprehensive understanding of what it takes to build structures that withstand Florida's unique climate challenges.
Ready to Transform Your Outdoor Space?
Imagine stepping out onto your porch or lanai without worrying about mosquitoes, enjoying your morning coffee in a comfortable, protected space, or hosting evening gatherings that extend well into the night. A professionally installed screen enclosure from Auer Aluminum & Construction makes this vision a reality.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
We'll visit your home, assess your space, discuss your goals, and provide a detailed proposal with transparent pricing. There's no obligation, and you'll have all the information you need to make an informed decision about your outdoor living space.
With over 40 years of experience, we understand what it takes to create outdoor living spaces that enhance your home and your lifestyle. Let's discuss how we can transform your porch or patio into the comfortable, functional space you've been wanting.
