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The cost to screen in a porch depends on whether you are adding screens to an existing structure or building a new one from scratch. Adding screens to an existing porch costs about $5 to $7 per square foot, with a national average cost of around $2,800. For example, screening a 12-by-12-foot (144-square-foot) porch would likely cost between $700 and $1,000. If you are building a new screened-in porch, the cost is substantially higher. A new 12-by-12-foot screened-in porch can cost between $6,400 and $18,300, while a new 14-by-16-foot one averages around $11,000. The final price will vary based on the size of the porch, labor costs, and the materials you choose.

If you want to hire a professional to build a screened-in porch, a local sunroom or porch contractor is your best bet. If you can't find a local sunroom builder, another option is to consider hiring a general contractor to perform the work. 

If you're handy, you may consider building the porch yourself. Before you do so, make sure you understand the local permit requirements and building codes so that you don't have any problems with the safety or structure of the porch.

Yes, enclosing a patio to create a sunroom or three-season room is often a good idea that adds value to your home. This project increases your home's usable square footage and creates a versatile space for relaxing or entertaining that is filled with natural light and can be used in various weather conditions. Homeowners may see an average return on investment (ROI) of around 70%. The final value added will depend on factors such as the quality of the materials, the level of finish, and the amount of yard space that remains after the enclosure.

A well-constructed and well-maintained sunroom can last as long as the rest of your house. If you build the sunroom to the same standards using the same quality materials as the house and perform regular maintenance to ensure the room stays in top condition, it can bring you decades of enjoyment.