Screen enclosures, pool enclosures, patio enclosures, screen-in porch, screened room – whatever you call it, we all know what you are talking about, right? It’s that fabulous outdoor space designed for gathering, enjoying the outdoors, and embracing the protection from mosquitoes and other pests! If you are considering a screened enclosure or simply aren’t sure how to best utilize the one you have, then this article is for you. We will discuss how to make the most of your screened room during each season and some fun additions you can make to it
We will first look at Fall because even though it is still hot here in Florida, technically, Fall is just around the corner. We will then move through each season offering practical tips, seasonal adjustments, and design ideas. Tripod Aluminum, located in Melbourne, FL, has been building beautiful enclosures for over 30 years. We want you to get the most out of your outdoor living space, and this article is designed to help you do just that.
Fall: Create a Cozy Outdoor Retreat
To cozy up your screened room or pool enclosure, introduce fall-themed decor to the area. You can place real or artificial pumpkins and gourds on the ground, on tables, and on shelves. You can string lights. For a cozy feel, white lights always evoke a holiday atmosphere. If you want something truly Fall, you can string orange and purple lights! If you have outdoor furniture, think about adding Fall-themed pillows and cozy throw blankets for cooler evenings. You can buy pillow covers (easily found online) for different seasons and holidays, so you are only storing pillow covers and not multiple sets of pillows which take up much more space.
You can add an electric fireplace for that extra glow and cozy feeling that invites friends and family to gather together. Or, if you have an outdoor television, you can always pull up a holiday fireplace on the screen. It might look a little weird to have a “fireplace” 5 feet off the ground, but somehow it works! Now that your Fall space is ready, invite friends or family over to enjoy seasonal treats like pumpkin bread and apple cider. If you are a good at-home barista, you can even offer pumpkin spice lattes!
Winter: Extend Your Living Space
Does the house start feeling crowded mid-winter? Kids are on break, people are coming over for holiday gatherings, and the house is feeling smaller by the minute. This is the perfect time to incorporate your outdoor space. Our Florida winters are much milder than up north, but we still have our version of winter!
During the colder months, your outdoor space is still usable. You can add outdoor rugs to warm it up and keep your feet from getting cold. Add warm, fluffy blankets for snuggling. You can even block the screened walls with room dividers or temporarily hang blankets or curtains to block out the wind. Winter is a great time to incorporate a safe space heater in your outdoor area.
Don’t forget to switch out the Fall decorations for white or multi-colored lights, Christmas or Hanukkah pillow covers, and replace the pumpkins with lighted gift boxes. You might even want to add a Christmas tree to the space. You can set up tables and have your family gathering in your outdoor space!
Spring: Refresh and Reconnect with Nature
Spring cleaning time! Sweep, powerwash, and wipe down tables. Clean outdoor furniture and cushion covers. Your outdoor space is once again transforming. With hints of warmth in the air, it’s time to bust out floral pillow covers, flower arrangements (fresh or artificial), and any Spring/Easter decor you have. Adding greenery, like potted plants, is good for the environment and you!
Spring is a great time to use your outdoor space as a retreat. Morning coffee, prayer/meditation, afternoon snacks with a good friend, evening wind-down with a special someone – these are all great, relaxing ways to use your springtime space. The scents and sounds of nature during Spring add to the ambiance and can bring a sense of calm.
Summer: Stay Cool and Bug Free
You might think it gets too hot here in the summer to enjoy your outdoor space unless you are in a pool, but that isn’t true! Adding ceiling fans or a portable cooling unit can cool down your space, provide a cooling breeze, and make your outdoor space comfortable even in the summer. One of the best features of screened enclosures is the protection they offer from bugs! Mosquitoes are our summertime nemesis, but they don’t have to be when you are inside your screened room!
Use this bug-free zone for family game nights, cookouts, and hanging out after swimming. Keep a big, decorative bin full of outside games. Cornhole, frisbee, and ladderball are just a few of the many games to be enjoyed. Giant games are a fun addition too. You may have seen them at restaurants. Giant Connect Four and Giant Jenga are fun for all ages.
Year-Round Upgrades to Consider
As mentioned above, hanging strings of lights can really add to your outdoor space. Not only do they provide extra lighting, but they can help create the vibe you are trying to achieve for each season. A TV (with an outdoor cover for protection), a Bluetooth speaker system, and a mini fridge are all great additions to your outdoor space. Make it fun and make it your own!
Summary
Screen and pool enclosures are a wonderful addition to any home. They provide additional living space year-round. From cozy pumpkin-inspired gatherings to Christmas celebrations and from a peaceful Spring retreat to a summertime fun zone, your outdoor space is an extension of your home. If you are ready to have a screen enclosure added to your home, then give us a call at Tripod Aluminum. With decades of experience serving Melbourne, Palm Bay, Merritt Island, and the surrounding areas, we will walk you through each step of the process until your beautiful project is complete!
