Get matched with top patio pros in Soso, MS

Prefab kits like a small sunroom for around $20,000 or even a basic gazebo roof for as little as $60 can save you big over professional installation. However, you lose the option for customization, and these structures tend not to last nearly as long. As for bigger projects like a deck or patio, you shouldn’t go with the DIY route unless you’re fully prepped with the tools and know-how to get it done right. Mistakes can be frustrating and costly, so choose a pro if you’re looking to eliminate your risk of error.

Several types of porches are available to meet your needs and style preferences. Some common porch types include:

• Porticos are essentially a roof over a walkway leading to the home's front entrance. 

• Sunrooms are closed-in porches that are an extension of the house with glass or plastic panels that allow optimal sunlight. 

• Wraparound porches extend around the entire home, or at least the front and one side, and offer multiple entrances to the house.

• Back porches are an extension of the home’s floor into the outdoors. These offer more protection and privacy than a deck.

In almost all cases, you will need permits if you plan on building a sunroom over your patio, but regulations and requirements will depend on your municipality. Permits to enclose your patio will usually cost between $300 and $1,000. Since navigating local building codes and zoning requirements is challenging—and the consequences of not following them can be extremely expensive—we strongly recommend hiring a sunroom builder to complete the work and pull the permits for you.

A screened-in porch can add value to your home, with a potential return on investment (ROI) of 70% to 84%. The actual value added depends heavily on several factors. Climate is a major consideration; homes in warm, humid, or buggy areas (like the Southern regions) see the highest ROI. In colder climates, the value is diminished as the unconditioned space is unusable for much of the year. Other factors that influence the return include the quality of materials and construction, the size of the porch, and the local real estate market. While a screened-in porch can enhance curb appeal and attract potential buyers, it is not included in the home's total square footage for appraisal purposes.