A porch can be screened-in using a number of different methods. The one that is right for you will depend on what kind of porch you have and on whether or not you want to be able to remove the screening. If your porch has framed-in bays, attaching screening is easy. On the other hand, if your porch has only posts, you will have to build a framework to which you can attach the screening.

To screen-in a porch with the requisite framework, first position the screening mesh so that it is at right angles to the framing. Stretch the screening as taut as you can, and, starting at the center top and working outward, attach it with staples every 2 inches. Then attach the bottom and finish with the sides in the same fashion. When you have completed the job, use 3d galvanized nails to cover the stapled framing with 3/8-by-3/4-inch batten.

Attaching screening in this manner is a simple and fast job, but the results are permanent, which may not be desirable. It also can be difficult—if not next to impossible—to stretch the screen taut enought to prevent it from eventually sagging and bagging.

Perhaps a better option is to screen-in your porch using removable screens. This method requires precise measuring and making the screens, but in the long run it is the more practical solution. The screens can be easily removed when they’re in need of repair (or simply not desired), and it is infinitely simpler to stretch screening taut over removable frames.

Framing screens yourself is not a difficult task, but the affordability and reliability of a professional screen shop makes it a compelling choce. Yet another easy and affordable method of mounting screening is to use a vinyl-spline system (See "Vinyl-Spline Screening").