How to Winterize Your Screened-In Porch in 5 Easy Steps

Porches are an extension of the home. In the summer, a porch can be the perfect spot to sip morning coffee, and in the fall, it's a place to host game nights and watch movies. But when the winter months roll around, many porches are left empty, waiting to be used until warm weather arrives.

Luckily, there are ways to get more use out of your porch in the winter. Use these steps to winterize your screened-in porch and make it a cozy getaway all season long.

1. Clean It Out

Before prepping your porch for winter, give it a deep clean. Sweep out any dust and dirt, and wipe debris off screens and surfaces, including porch furniture. Shake out and wash all pillow and cushion covers, towels, and blankets. Thoroughly wipe down and dry the trim around the porch screens so the sheets stay adhered tightly all winter long.

2. Seal All Cracks

Weatherstrip or use waterproof caulk to seal any cracks or openings in your porch. Make sure to pay close attention to the seals around windows and doors. Even if the cracks are small, they allow cold air to sneak in. So when in doubt—reseal!

3. Apply Vinyl Sheeting

One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to keep your porch functional throughout the winter is by applying vinyl sheeting to your screens. Vinyl sheeting helps keep snow and debris out of your porch and provides insulation so the space is still usable in cold temperatures. When shopping, make sure to choose a sheeting that is thick enough to stand up to snow, wind, and other winter precipitation. While thicker sheeting can be more expensive, it is more durable and reliable for keeping your porch warm in the winter.

First, cut the sheeting to the size of your porch screens. Use hook-and-loop tape, such as Velcro, to attach the sheeting to the frame of your screens. Pull the sheeting taught to ensure the cold stays out.

An alternative to vinyl sheeting, vinyl curtains or tarps are also good options for winterizing screened-in porches. Simply hang the curtains or tarps with tension rods over the screened areas of your porch. Be aware that while the application may be easier, vinyl curtains have the possibility of letting in more cold air than secured vinyl sheeting.

4. Use an Additional Heat Source

To keep your porch nice and toasty, invest in a space heater or portable electric fireplace. Use the fireplace as a functional decor item and place seating around it, or install it on a wall to create a focal point.

5. Decorate for the Season

Trade in your summer decorations for warm, cozy accessories. Replace pillow and cushion covers for cozier fabrics and accentuate your porch furniture with knit throw blankets. Incorporate garlands and seasonal wreaths to bring the outside in (minus the cold temperatures).