A screened-in porch can quickly become one of the most loved spaces in your home, but only if it’s built the right way. Homeowners often focus on how the space will look and feel, without realizing how many behind-the-scenes decisions affect comfort, durability, and long-term performance. When the wrong questions aren’t asked early, small oversights can turn into ongoing frustrations.
At Custom Built Design & Remodeling, we’ve designed and built screened-in porches across Mid-Michigan and Northern Michigan, and we’ve seen firsthand how experience matters. From managing water and insects to evaluating existing structures and navigating permits, our team understands the details that set a porch that simply exists apart from one that truly enhances how a family uses their home.
In this article, we’ll discuss the eleven most important questions to ask before hiring a screened-in porch builder, so you can move forward with confidence, avoid costly surprises, and end up with a space that’s comfortable, functional, and built to last:
- What experience do you have building screened-in porches specifically?
- Can you show examples of past screened-in porch projects similar to mine?
- How will you evaluate my existing deck or foundation before building?
- What permits and inspections will be required?
- What materials do you recommend for Michigan’s climate, and why?
- How will you design the porch to manage water, airflow, and insects?
- How will electrical needs be handled?
- What does the construction timeline look like, and how will it affect daily life?
- What will be clearly outlined in the written proposal and contract?
- How will the screened-in porch match my home’s style?
- What warranty and long-term support do you provide?
1. What experience do you have building screened-in porches specifically?
Screened-in porches involve many small details that don’t exist in standard decks or additions. An experienced builder understands how those details affect daily comfort, not just structure.
A builder with specific screened-porch experience should be able to explain:
- How they manage bugs, airflow, and water intrusion
- How screened spaces behave differently from open decks
- How roof loads are calculated and transferred
2. Can you show examples of past screened-in porch projects similar to mine?
Seeing real projects helps you verify a builder’s experience and attention to detail. A reputable builder should be able to point you to photos or physical examples of completed screened-in porches.
When reviewing examples, look for:
- How screens connect to floors, ceilings, and framing
- How transitions to the home are handled
- Evidence that the project is more than just a “deck with screens added”
3. How will you evaluate my existing deck or foundation before building?
Many homeowners assume a screened-in porch can simply be built on top of an existing deck. In reality, this is often not advisable.
An experienced builder will assess:
- The age and condition of the existing structure
- Whether the footings are properly sized for roof loads
- Whether the structure will age faster than the new porch
In many cases, builders avoid building on existing decks because there’s no way to confirm footing size or long-term structural integrity.
4. What permits and inspections will be required?
A screened-in porch is a structural addition, which means permits and inspections are typically required. Cutting corners here can create serious problems later, especially when selling your home.
A qualified builder should clearly explain:
- Which permits are required
- What will be inspected (foundations, framing, electrical, roofing)
- Why doing it right the first time protects you long-term
5. What materials do you recommend for Michigan’s climate, and why?
Even though it’s screened, this is still an outdoor space exposed to Michigan’s temperature swings, moisture, and weather extremes.
Your builder should explain:
- Flooring materials that perform well outdoors (e.g., Trex composite decking and PVC decking)
- Screen options, including newer high-strength screens
- Whether railings are required and when stronger screens may eliminate the need
The right materials improve durability, safety, and views.
6. How will you design the porch to manage water, airflow, and insects?
Comfort is the entire point of a screened-in porch. Without thoughtful design, water and insects can quickly become a frustration.
Key design considerations include:
- Managing water runoff to prevent rot and damage
- Screening below decks to stop bugs from entering underneath
- Understanding that most screens reduce wind, not increase it
If airflow is important, especially with features like a grill or kitchenette, venting and layout matter.
7. How will electrical needs be handled?
PC: Archadeck | Outdoor Living
Electrical planning is often overlooked until it’s too late. Screens can cover existing outlets or limit access that you expect to have.
A builder should help you think through:
- Existing outlets that may be blocked
- New outlet placement for lighting or seasonal décor
- Long-term usability of the space
These details are much easier to address before construction begins.
8. What does the construction timeline look like, and how will it affect daily life?
Because screened-in porches are often attached to the home, construction can impact daily routines. Setting expectations upfront makes the experience smoother.
A good builder will explain:
- How long the project will take
- When crews will be on-site
- What disruptions to expect and how they’ll minimize them
Transparency here builds trust.
9. What will be clearly outlined in the written proposal and contract?
Misunderstandings often come from vague language. A detailed proposal ensures everyone is aligned before work begins.
Look for contracts that clearly outline:
- Scope of work and materials
- What is included and what isn’t
- How changes are handled
Clarity upfront prevents conflict later.
10. How will the screened-in porch match my home’s style?
PC: Houzz
A screened-in porch should feel like a natural extension of your home, not an afterthought.
Experienced builders take time to:
- Understand how you want the space to feel
- Align materials and design with your home’s architecture
- Balance your input with professional guidance
The goal is a space you feel proud of, not one you feel disconnected from.
11. What warranty and long-term support do you provide?
Michigan weather causes materials to expand, shift, and move over time. A builder’s warranty says a lot about how much they stand behind their work.
Ask about:
- Workmanship warranties
- How follow-up issues are handled
- Whether the builder is willing to come back and make things right
Long-term support is part of long-term quality.
Next Steps to Building Your Screened-In Porch
Screened-in porches are significant investments, and the right builder makes all the difference in how comfortable, durable, and enjoyable the space will be.
By asking the right questions upfront, you can better understand a builder’s experience, approach, and attention to the details that matter most before construction ever begins.
At Custom Built Design & Remodeling, we believe thoughtful planning, clear communication, and proven experience lead to screened-in porches that truly enhance how families use their homes.
If you’re considering a screened-in porch, schedule a free consultation with our team to discuss your goals, evaluate your home, and explore design options tailored to Michigan living.
Now that you know more about the questions to ask before hiring a screened-in porch builder, let’s explore exciting layouts for your porch area, the top pergolas, and the best outdoor heating ideas:
- 7 Inspiring Porch Layouts to Transform Your Outdoor Living Space - Explore how to upgrade your porch with these gorgeous layouts.
- Top 4 Pergolas for Your Michigan Outdoor Living Space - Discover the most popular pergola options to elevate your deck or patio.
- Top 8 Outdoor Heating Ideas for Your Deck or Patio - From frigid winter days to cool summer nights, these outdoor heating options will keep your living space comfortable year-round.
