HOW TO CONVERT A SCREENED PORCH INTO A THREE SEASON ROOM

• 1). Consult with your local government regarding regulations and permits required. Some municipalities require different foundations for 3-season rooms than screened porches.
  
  
• 2). Remove the old screen panels from the existing porch. Depending on the size or shape of the windows you plan to put in place of the screens, you may have to reframe parts of the room.
  
  
• 3). Consult a government inspector to see if the foundation for your screened porch is up to code for a conversion to a 3-season room. A 3-season room can be built on top of a pre-existing patio, as long as it meets local requirements. Some jurisdictions will also allow you to build a 3-season room on top of a crawl space or solid concrete blocks. Check with building code officials before proceeding.
  
  
• 4). Drill sill plates directly into the concrete foundation of your room. A sill plate is 2 pieces of treated lumber stacked one on top of the other. The sill plate guarantees a sturdy base for the windows you'll install. Anchor the sill plates into the concrete using a high-powered drill and heavy-duty screws or nails. Install top plates where the walls meet the ceiling in the same fashion, to provide a solid frame for the studs.
  
  
• 5). Frame the walls for your room. The size and style of this step will vary depending on the size of your room and the style of window you choose. Generally, 2 by 4 lumber is sturdy enough. Place studs every 16 inches to ensure structural stability. You will have to account for the location of windows and doors when framing the room. Decide in advance where the windows and doors will be. Measure and cut into the studs to make room for the windows and doors, nailing into place 2 by 4 pieces of lumber to mark where windows and doors will be installed. Consult a carpenter or your window and door supplier on how to frame around these openings.
  
  
• 6). Nail or screw plywood onto the exterior of your newly-framed structure. The size of these pieces will vary depending on the size of your room. Do not install plywood over areas that will be covered with windows.
  
  
• 7). Weatherproof the room using construction-grade materials. Wrapping the room in a material that guards against heat, humidity and moisture will ensure a more comfortable environment once construction is complete. Use weather-stripping to seal the door and window frames of your room for extra protection against the weather.
  
  
• 8). Install the windows and doors you've ordered for this project. This is a two-person job; have one person hold the window or door in place while the other person secures it to the foundation or framing.
  
  
• 9). Wire the room for electricity. Unless you are a licensed electrician, this may be best left to a professional.
  
  
• 10
  
  Insulate the walls to further protect from extreme temperatures. Doing so will extend the amount of time you can use your room. Install insulation from the inside, wearing gloves and long sleeves to protect your skin. Cover the insulation with drywall inside.
  
  
• 11
  
  Complete additional steps to refine the appearance, including installing exterior siding, wood or tile floors or painting the walls.
  
  
• 12
  
  Make any additional changes recommended by a building inspector before closing your construction permit.