Screened porches and decks

Screened porches, covered decks and outdoor rooms built for East Tennessee summers, with the roof tied properly into the house.

A screened porch with a sofa, a rocking chair and trees beyond the screens

In East Tennessee a screened porch is used for most of the year: shade in summer, shelter from the rain, and no mosquitoes. Built well, it feels like a room of the house rather than something added on.

What makes a porch last

Footings: below the frost line and sized for the roof, not just the deck.
Ledger and flashing: the connection to the house bolted and flashed, so water never reaches the house framing.
Roof: the pitch and shingles matched to the house, with gutters to carry the rain away.
Screens: in panels that can be replaced one at a time.

Options

A fan and lights are standard. Many owners add a ceiling of tongue-and-groove boards, outlets for heaters, or glass panels that turn the porch into a three-season room.

What is included

Design, permit and footings
Pressure-treated or composite decking
A roof matched to the house
Screens, a fan and lighting
Stairs and railings to code

Questions about this service

Can you screen in my existing deck?

Sometimes. A roof adds weight, so we check the footings and framing first; often new footings are needed under the posts.

Composite or wood decking?

Composite costs more at first and needs little upkeep. Treated wood costs less and needs stain every few years. We price both.

Do porches need a permit?

Yes, a roofed porch or a deck above a certain height needs a permit and inspections. We handle them.

Book a design visit

Tell us about the house and what you have in mind. We reply within a working day to set a time.

Call: (865) 555-0171
Email: office@harlowmerebuilders.example
Hours: Mon–Thu 8 am–5 pm · Fri 8 am–4 pm · Design visits by appointment