Screened Porch Builder Lakeside MI | Cottage Specialist

Specification	Details
Permit Jurisdiction	Chikaming Township (strict lot coverage rules for wooded properties)
Environment	Heavily wooded lots with high insect pressure (mosquitoes, biting flies)
Structure Style	Open gable or shed roof screened porches matching cottage architecture
Screening Options	High-visibility BetterVue or pet-resistant TuffScreen systems
Common Sizes	12x16 to 14x20 feet (cottage-scale proportions)
Typical Timeline	4–6 weeks (includes Chikaming Township permit approval, screening installation)

Why Screened Porches Fail in Lakeside

The "Sagging Screen" Problem: Professional Track Systems vs. Stapled Screens

Lakeside's wooded lots create high insect pressure from mosquitoes breeding in leaf litter and standing water plus persistent biting flies making cheap stapled screening systems inadequate—screens sag, tear in wind, and develop gaps allowing bug infiltration within 2-3 years requiring constant repair.

Why stapled screens fail in wooded environments:

Wind stress: Lake Michigan breezes channeling through wooded lots create sustained 15-25 MPH winds—screens flutter and vibrate. Staples pull out gradually—each wind event loosens connections slightly. Cumulative failure over seasons—initially tight screens become loose and wavy
UV degradation: Standard fiberglass screens break down from sun exposure—becomes brittle after 5-7 years. Brittleness plus wind stress—screens tear at staple points. Tears expand rapidly—small hole becomes large gap in single season
Humidity and moisture: Lakeside's humid lakefront environment accelerates wood expansion and contraction cycles. Stapled connections loosen as wood swells and shrinks—gaps appear at screen edges. Moisture promotes mildew on screen surface—discolors and weakens fibers
Pet and wildlife damage: Dogs jumping at screens—claws tear fiberglass creating permanent holes. Squirrels and birds landing on screens—weight causes sagging and stretching. Repairs difficult—replacing stapled screens requires removing trim, restapling, reinstalling trim

The gap infiltration problem:

Mosquito entry: Mosquitoes squeeze through 1/16-inch gaps—stapled screen edges leave tiny openings. Gaps at corners where screens meet—critical failure points. Trim covering staples compresses screen—creates gaps as wood moves seasonally
No-see-ums: Biting midges under 1mm size pass through standard 18x16 mesh—require finer mesh. Near dune grass areas—persistent problem May through August. Standard screens inadequate—must use specialized fine mesh
Carpenter bee damage: Bees boring into wood trim create holes—bugs enter behind screens. Wood damage progressive—requires trim replacement after several years

WTS II Contracting's professional screening systems:

Screen-Tight Vinyl Track System (Premium Solution):

Installation method: Continuous vinyl channel screwed to posts, beams, and sills every 8 inches—creates rigid perimeter frame. Screen material rolls across opening overlapping track 2 inches all sides. Rubber spline pressed into track channel using spline roller—embeds screen edge creating complete seal. Screen tensioned taut before spline installation—eliminates sag permanently
Zero-gap design: Track completely surrounds screen perimeter—no gaps possible. Corners mitered or using corner pieces—continuous seal around entire opening. Screen cannot pull out—spline mechanically locks in channel requiring intentional removal
Long-term durability: 20+ year system lifespan typical—screens remain taut without maintenance. UV-resistant vinyl tracks—won't degrade in sun exposure. Screen replacement DIY-friendly—pull old spline out, remove old screen, install new screen, press in new spline. Typical replacement interval: 10-15 years for screens, tracks last indefinitely
Professional appearance: Clean finished look—no visible staples or trim covering edges. Paint vinyl tracks to match trim color—integrates seamlessly with cottage architecture. Multiple track profiles available—recessed, surface-mount, combination systems
Cost: $10-14 per square foot of screen area installed—premium over stapled but eliminates ongoing maintenance. 12x16 porch with 8-foot ceiling height = ~400 sq ft screen area = $4,000-5,600 screening system

Aluminum Track System (Alternative):

Metal channels with screen spline—similar concept to vinyl but metal construction. More rigid than vinyl—better for large openings over 6 feet. Paintable aluminum—matches any color scheme. Cost: $12-16 per square foot installed

Phifer Screen Material Options:

Standard fiberglass 18x16 mesh: Keeps out mosquitoes, gnats, most flies—adequate for general bug protection. Most economical—$1-2 per square foot material cost. Charcoal color standard—nearly invisible from inside looking out. Lifespan: 10-12 years before UV degradation
BetterVue ultra-fine mesh: Nearly invisible screening—appears as light gray haze rather than visible grid. Finer weave than standard—stops smaller insects including some no-see-ums. Superior light transmission—brighter interior than standard screening. Better airflow than appears—fine weave actually very open. Cost: $4-6 per square foot material—premium for superior view. Best for: Lake view porches where visibility critical, spaces where bright interior important
TuffScreen heavy-duty polymer: Seven times stronger than fiberglass—resists pet claws and wildlife damage. Vinyl-coated polyester construction—won't tear or stretch. Slightly less visibility than fiberglass—more noticeable weave pattern. Ideal for: Homes with dogs, ground-level porches where wildlife contacts screens. Cost: $3-4 per square foot material
Pet Screen: Vinyl-coated polyester specifically designed for pet-proof applications—similar to TuffScreen. Resists scratching and tearing from cats and dogs. Available in black or gray—black less visible. Cost: $2-3 per square foot material

The "Deck Board" Gap: Preventing Under-Floor Bug Entry

Standard deck construction with 1/4-inch gaps between boards allows mosquitoes, spiders, and wasps to enter screened porches from below—comprehensive bug protection requires floor sealing preventing infiltration through flooring gaps.

The under-floor bug entry mechanism:

Deck board spacing: 1/4-inch gaps between boards allow drainage and wood expansion—standard deck building practice. Bugs crawl through gaps—mosquitoes, flies, wasps, spiders enter from underneath. Screen walls ineffective—bugs inside before encountering screens. Particularly problematic at dusk—peak mosquito activity time coincides with porch use
Joist cavity habitat: Space between floor joists creates protected habitat—spiders and wasps nest in cavities. Shaded cool environment—attractive to insects during hot days. Access from below—bugs nest under deck, enter through floor gaps at will
Vegetation underneath: Shade under deck promotes weed and grass growth—creates habitat for more insects. Standing water in low spots—mosquito breeding ground directly below living space

WTS II Contracting's under-floor sealing solutions:

Solution 1: Mesh Insect Screening Between Joists

Installation method: Staple fiberglass screen mesh to underside of floor joists before installing decking. Screen spans between joists creating barrier preventing bug entry from below. Overlaps at joist locations—ensures continuous coverage. Decking installs over screening—sandwiches mesh between joists and boards
How it works: Bugs crawling up through deck board gaps encounter screen mesh below—cannot penetrate to living space. Drainage still functions—water passes through screen mesh. Air circulation maintained—mesh doesn't trap moisture
Advantages: Economical solution—$1-2 per square foot material and installation. Standard deck board installation—maintains traditional appearance. Effective bug barrier—blocks >95% of insects from below
Limitations: Screen mesh visible from below—may be aesthetic concern on elevated decks. Eventual degradation—mesh lifespan 10-15 years before requiring replacement. Difficult to replace—would require removing decking
Cost: $200-400 for typical 12x16 porch floor screening

Solution 2: Tongue-and-Groove Porch Flooring (Premium)

Material: Tongue-and-groove boards interlock creating continuous sealed surface—no gaps between boards. Traditional porch construction method—authentic to historic cottage aesthetics. Available materials: Composite (Aeratis Porch Plank), mahogany, ipe, pressure-treated southern yellow pine
Installation: Boards blind-nailed through tongue—fasteners hidden creating clean surface. Tight interlocking joints—virtually eliminates gaps. Installed over screened joist cavities—double barrier protection
Advantages: Complete bug seal—no floor gaps whatsoever. Superior appearance—finished floor suitable for cottage interior aesthetic. More comfortable barefoot—smooth continuous surface. Allows area rug use—rugs stay flat on sealed surface versus falling through deck gaps
Composite tongue-and-groove benefits: Won't rot or splinter—lifetime material in screened environment. Never needs painting or staining—maintenance-free. Looks like real wood—embossed grain texture. Resists mold and mildew—important in humid lakefront environment
Cost: $8-12 per square foot installed for composite tongue-and-groove versus $4-6 for standard deck boards. Premium $600-1,200 for typical porch but eliminates bug entry and creates superior finished space

Solution 3: Sealed Composite Decking

Hidden fastener systems—Trex, TimberTech, Fiberon composite decking with grooved edges. Fastener clips hold boards tight together—minimal gaps (1/16 inch or less). Not completely sealed but substantially better than 1/4-inch gapped traditional deck. Cost: $6-9 per square foot installed

Pollen Management: Eze-Breeze Vinyl Window Systems

Lakeside's heavily wooded environment generates extreme tree pollen loads during May and early June making standard screened porches unusable for allergy sufferers—Eze-Breeze vinyl window systems provide convertible enclosure blocking pollen while maintaining airflow capability.

The Lakeside pollen problem:

Oak and maple dominance: Lakeside woods consist primarily of oak and maple trees—heavy pollen producers. Peak pollen season mid-May through early June—coincides with prime outdoor living weather. Yellow dust coating surfaces—cars, patios, furniture covered with visible pollen layer. Airborne concentration—even light breezes carry pollen through standard screening
Allergy impacts: 25-30% of population has seasonal allergies—pollen triggers symptoms. Outdoor spaces unusable during peak season—defeats purpose of screened porch. Indoor air quality affected—pollen tracked indoors, enters through open windows
Standard screening inadequate: 18x16 mesh openings allow pollen passage—screens don't filter particles. Pollen accumulates on screen surface—reduces visibility and airflow. Frequent cleaning required—power washing screens 2-3 times during pollen season

Eze-Breeze convertible window system:

System Design and Operation:

Four-track vertical slider: Four separate vinyl panels in each window opening—slides up and down independently. Each panel approximately 24 inches tall—four panels cover standard 8-foot opening. Top-to-bottom operation—slide panels upward to open, lower to close
Opening positions: Fully closed—all four panels down creating weather seal. 25% open—one panel up allowing limited airflow. 50% open—two panels up for moderate ventilation. 75% open—three panels up maximizing airflow (standard operating position in summer). Fully open—all panels stacked at top (rarely used—reduces headroom)
Vinyl glazing: Flexible vinyl windows (not glass)—provides visibility while maintaining flexibility. Clear vinyl—transparent enough to see through but slight haze compared to glass. UV-resistant vinyl—won't yellow or become brittle over time. Slightly flexible—accommodates building movement without cracking

Seasonal Use Strategy:

Spring (May-June) - Pollen Season: Panels fully closed—blocks pollen infiltration while maintaining visibility. Screened panels installed behind vinyl—when vinyl closed, screens keep bugs out. Space usable by allergy sufferers—pollen-free environment. Temperature comfortable—spring weather doesn't require cooling
Summer (July-August) - Open Air: Panels 75% open—functions essentially as screened porch. Maximum airflow—minimal obstruction to breezes. Screens visible and functional—vinyl panels stacked at top out of way. Occasional closure during rain—vinyl blocks wind-driven precipitation
Fall (September-October) - Extended Season: Panels closed during cool evenings—blocks wind extending comfortable outdoor season. Open during warm afternoons—maintains ventilation. Captures solar gain—closed vinyl panels create greenhouse effect on sunny days
Winter (November-April) - Winterized Storage: Panels fully closed—protects structure from snow and ice. Not heated living space—furniture removed or covered. Protects porch floor and finishes—extends material lifespan versus exposed conditions

Screen Integration:

Screens installed behind Eze-Breeze panels—dual-layer system. When panels open, screens provide bug protection—prevents insects entering. When panels closed, screens redundant but remain in place—easy conversion between modes. Screen material: Standard fiberglass adequate—vinyl panels provide weather protection

Cost and Installation:

Material cost: $45-65 per square foot of opening—includes Eze-Breeze panels, tracks, hardware. 12x16 porch with 8-foot walls = ~320 sq ft opening area = $14,400-20,800 for Eze-Breeze system. Screening adds $3,200-4,800—total system $17,600-25,600
Installation: Tracks mounted to posts and beams—similar to screen track installation. Panels inserted into tracks after mounting—slide freely in channels. Final adjustment and lubrication—ensures smooth operation
Comparison to three-season sunroom: Eze-Breeze cost $75-100 per square foot total (structure plus enclosure). Glass sunroom $150-250 per square foot—includes HVAC, insulation, thermal windows. Eze-Breeze provides 80% of sunroom benefit at 40-50% of cost

Maintenance:

Vinyl panel cleaning—soap and water periodically removing pollen and dirt. Track cleaning—vacuum channels removing accumulated debris. Lubrication—silicone spray on tracks annually ensuring smooth sliding. Panel replacement if damaged—individual panels replaceable without system replacement

Navigating Chikaming Township Zoning

Lot Coverage Ratio: Calculating Impervious Surface Limits

Chikaming Township enforces strict lot coverage limitations restricting total impervious surface (structures plus paved areas) to 25-30% of lot area—adding screened porch with roof counts toward coverage potentially triggering permit denials without proper pre-calculation.

Understanding Chikaming Township lot coverage:

Coverage definition: Total square footage of all structures, patios, driveways, walkways divided by total lot square footage. Includes: Main house, garage, shed, covered porches/patios, concrete/asphalt driveways, paver walkways. Excludes: Open decks without roofs (in most interpretations), gravel areas, pervious pavers on gravel base, landscaping
Typical limits: 25% maximum in lakefront residential zones—protects environmental quality. 30% in some inland zones—slightly more permissive. Older developed areas may have different standards—verify specific property zoning
Why limits exist: Protect water quality—limit runoff into Lake Michigan and inland lakes. Preserve tree canopy—prevent over-development of wooded lots. Maintain community character—prevent oversized structures on small lots

Lot coverage calculation example:

Property: 0.4 acre wooded lot (17,424 square feet) in lakefront zone with 25% maximum coverage
Allowed coverage: 17,424 x 0.25 = 4,356 square feet maximum impervious surface
Existing structures: Cottage 1,400 sq ft, garage 400 sq ft, driveway 600 sq ft, walkways 200 sq ft = 2,600 sq ft existing
Available capacity: 4,356 - 2,600 = 1,756 sq ft remaining for additions
Proposed screened porch: 14x18 = 252 sq ft—fits comfortably within remaining capacity. Leaves 1,504 sq ft buffer for future additions or improvements

What happens when approaching or exceeding limits:

Variance required: Exceeding coverage triggers zoning board of appeals variance application—expensive uncertain process. Application requirements: Site plan, justification letter, neighbor notification, public hearing. Fees: $500-1,000 application plus potential legal costs. Timeline: 8-12 weeks minimum—may extend if contested. Approval uncertain—neighbors may object, board discretion varies
Design modifications: Reduce porch size—14x16 instead of 14x18 saves 28 sq ft. Eliminate or reduce other impervious areas—remove excess walkway, narrow driveway. Use open deck design—deck without roof may not count toward coverage. Convert surfaces to pervious—gravel driveway instead of asphalt

WTS II lot coverage pre-calculation service:

Survey review: Examine property survey showing lot dimensions and existing structure locations—establishes baseline. Measure all existing impervious surfaces—buildings, driveways, walkways using survey plus site verification. Calculate current coverage percentage—determines available capacity
Zoning verification: Confirm specific lot's zoning district—coverage limits vary by zone. Check for special overlays—lakefront, wetland, floodplain zones may have additional restrictions. Review variance history—property may have existing variances affecting coverage calculations
Design guidance: Size porch to fit within available coverage—maximizes function while ensuring permit approval. Present options if approaching limits—open deck versus covered porch, size alternatives. Coordinate with other planned improvements—holistic property development plan. Cost: $300-600 for lot coverage analysis and zoning compliance verification—prevents costly permit denials

Setback Surprises: Non-Conforming Lot Challenges

Many Lakeside cottages exist on non-conforming lots platted before current zoning—cottages built closer to property lines than modern codes allow creating addition challenges when side-yard setbacks prevent standard construction.

Non-conforming lot characteristics:

Historic platting: Lakeside developed 1920s-1950s with smaller lot sizes—40-60 foot widths common. Modern zoning requires larger setbacks—5-10 feet each side versus 3-5 feet when built. Cottages legally constructed—grandfathered non-conforming structures. New construction must meet current codes—additions must respect modern setbacks even if main cottage doesn't
Setback requirements: Typical current requirements: 10 feet side yard setback from property line, 20 feet rear yard setback, 25-30 feet front yard setback from road. Non-conforming cottages may be 5 feet from side property line—legal but additions cannot encroach further
Addition constraints: Screened porch addition on side of cottage—must maintain current setback distances. Limited buildable area—narrow lots with large setbacks leave minimal space. Cannot expand toward property lines—additions must go opposite direction from encroachment

The shallow-depth addition solution:

Strategy: Instead of standard 14-16 foot depth porch, design 10-12 foot shallow porch maximizing length. Example: 10x20 porch provides 200 sq ft versus 14x14 (196 sq ft)—similar area, different proportions. Fits tighter buildable envelope—works where standard depth won't fit. Maintains setbacks—complies with zoning without variance
Design optimization: Longer narrow porch along cottage side—follows building line respecting setbacks. Furniture arrangement optimized—seating along length, circulation path down center. Gable end facing property line—minimizes visual bulk toward neighbors. Cost neutral—shallow depth doesn't cost less but avoids variance fees and delays

WTS II non-conforming lot expertise:

Survey existing setbacks—establishes legal building envelope for additions. Calculate maximum addition dimensions respecting all setbacks—determines feasible porch size. Design within constraints—creative layouts maximizing space while maintaining compliance. Alternative siting—explore front or rear additions if side additions infeasible. Pre-consultation with zoning administrator—verify interpretation before formal application. Included in design service—setback verification no additional charge

Roof Tie-Ins: Preventing Leaks at Complex Cottage Rooflines

Lakeside cottages feature complex multi-gable rooflines with dormers and additions creating challenging attachment points—improper roof tie-in flashing causes water infiltration destroying interior walls and insulation requiring $5,000-15,000 repairs.

Why cottage roof tie-ins leak:

Multiple roof planes: Cottages often have 3-5 roof sections at different angles—main gable, side gable, dormer, previous additions. Each intersection creates potential leak point—water channels toward valleys. Adding porch roof creates new intersection—another opportunity for failure if done improperly
Contractor shortcuts: Ledger board bolted through siding directly to house—relies on caulk as waterproofing. Caulk degrades in 2-5 years—UV and temperature cycling breaks down sealant. Water runs behind ledger—infiltrates wall cavity causing rot. No ice and water shield—vulnerable junction lacks waterproof backup protection
Improper flashing: Single-layer metal flashing without step flashing—water runs behind at some point. Flashing over shingles—creates uneven surface, doesn't seal properly. Missing kickout flashing at ends—water runs behind siding at corners

WTS II leak-proof roof tie-in process:

Step 1: Siding and Shingle Removal

Remove siding 12 inches above planned roofline—exposes wall sheathing for proper flashing installation. Strip existing shingles 18-24 inches from attachment point—exposes roof deck for waterproof membrane. Inspect exposed sheathing for water damage—repair any rot before proceeding. Clean surfaces—remove debris, old nails, deteriorated materials

Step 2: Ice and Water Shield Installation

Self-adhering rubberized asphalt membrane creates 100% waterproof barrier. Cover wall sheathing 12 inches up wall and 24 inches onto existing roof deck—continuous protection across junction. Seals around fasteners—self-healing when penetrated. Critical backup layer—even if flashing fails, membrane prevents water reaching structure. Cost: $3-5 per square foot—inexpensive insurance against leaks

Step 3: Ledger Board Installation

Pressure-treated 2x8 or 2x10 ledger board supporting porch roof rafters. Through-bolt to house rim joist or wall studs—1/2-inch lag bolts every 16 inches. Flashing tape on top of ledger—additional waterproofing layer. Ledger integrated with ice and water shield—multiple overlapping layers

Step 4: Multi-Layer Flashing System

Step flashing: Individual L-shaped metal pieces installed with each shingle course—creates overlapping waterproof system. Each piece overlaps previous—continuous protection up slope. Extends under shingles and over porch roofing—water diverts away from junction
Counter flashing: Second layer metal flashing embedded behind siding—covers step flashing preventing wind-driven rain entry. Properly overlaps—water cannot get behind system
Kickout flashing: Special pieces at ends where roof meets wall—diverts water away from wall corners. Critical detail—prevents concentrated flow behind siding at vulnerable corners

Step 5: Siding Reinstallation

Reinstall siding over counter flashing—maintains weather barrier. Proper clearance above roofing—prevents wicking water into siding. Caulk siding edges with polyurethane—final detail not primary waterproofing. Paint siding matching cottage—seamless integration

Cost of proper tie-in:

Siding removal and replacement: $400-800 depending on siding type and difficulty. Ice and water shield: $200-400 for typical junction area. Multi-layer flashing system: $300-600 materials and installation. Total: $900-1,800 for leak-proof tie-in—prevents $5,000-15,000 water damage repairs. Included in porch construction—not separate charge but essential component

Cottage-Style Materials for Lakeside Screened Porches

We specify materials honoring Lakeside's historic cottage character:

Ceilings - Blue Beadboard or V-Groove Pine

"Haint blue" tradition: Light blue porch ceilings traditional in Southern and lakefront architecture—historically believed to repel insects (haints/spirits). Lakeside cottages commonly feature blue ceilings—authentic to regional vernacular. Psychologically calming—blue reflects sky creating serene atmosphere. Multiple shades available: Pale robin's egg blue, powder blue, aqua, turquoise—match existing or personal preference.
Beadboard construction: Vertical tongue-and-groove planks with decorative bead detail—creates traditional wainscoting appearance. 4-inch or 6-inch planks typical—narrower planks more traditional, wider modern farmhouse. Installed perpendicular to rafters—spans between structural members. Blind-nailed through tongue—concealed fastening creating seamless look.
V-groove alternative: Tongue-and-groove planks with V-shaped channel at joints—simpler than beadboard but still traditional. Clean lined appearance—appropriate for both cottage and contemporary aesthetics. Slightly less expensive than beadboard—$1-2 per square foot material savings.
Material options: Solid pine—natural wood traditional choice requiring paint or stain. PVC beadboard—maintenance-free synthetic never needs repainting. Fiber cement beadboard—durable composite resists rot and insects. Pre-finished beadboard panels—factory-painted reducing installation time.
Installation details: Install over solid roof sheathing—creates finished ceiling hiding plywood. Paint before or after installation—depends on material and preference. Cove molding at wall junctions—decorative trim concealing expansion gaps. Painted wood trim matching ceiling or contrasting white.
Cost: $6-10 per square foot installed for solid pine beadboard including material, installation, painting. PVC beadboard $8-12 per square foot—premium for maintenance-free. Premium over exposed painted sheathing ($3-4 per square foot) but essential for cottage aesthetic.

Flooring - Aeratis Composite Porch Plank

Composite technology: Engineered wood fiber and polymer blend creating maintenance-free porch flooring. Looks like traditional painted wood planks—embossed wood grain texture. Never rots or splinters—lifetime material in screened environment. Resists mold, mildew, and insects—important in humid lakefront conditions.
Tongue-and-groove construction: Interlocking boards create continuous sealed surface—no gaps for bugs to enter. Blind-fastened installation—screws hidden creating clean appearance. Expands and contracts minimally—engineered for dimensional stability. Available in 5.5-inch width—authentic porch plank proportions.
Color options: Factory colors mimicking painted wood—white, gray, beige popular choices. Color throughout material—won't show wear or scratches revealing different color. UV-resistant pigments—maintains color 20+ years without fading. Can be painted if desired—accepts paint for color change or touch-up.
Advantages over wood: Zero maintenance—never needs painting, sanding, or sealing. Won't rot from moisture—ideal for screened porch where humidity higher than indoor spaces. Splinter-free—safe for barefoot walking and children playing. Resists fading—maintains appearance far longer than painted wood. Warranty—25-year limited warranty typical from manufacturers.
Installation: Installs over standard floor joists 16 inches on center—same framing as wood deck. Hidden fastener clips or face screwing—both methods work. Starter and finishing trim pieces—clean edges at walls and doors. Cost: $9-13 per square foot installed versus $4-6 for standard deck boards, $6-8 for traditional painted tongue-and-groove wood.
Authentic appearance: Subtle grain pattern and matte finish—looks like freshly painted wood porch floor. Narrower planks than composite deck boards—more authentic to historic proportions. Tongue-and-groove joints visible—creates traditional look versus seamless deck appearance.

Screens - Phifer BetterVue or TuffScreen

Phifer BetterVue ultra-fine mesh: Nearly invisible screening providing superior view clarity—appears as faint gray haze rather than obvious screen pattern. Finer weave than standard (18x18 versus 18x16)—tighter mesh for smaller insect blocking. Superior light transmission—interior 15-20% brighter than standard screening. Better airflow than appears—fine weave actually very open allowing excellent ventilation. Reduced glare—matte finish eliminates reflections common with standard screens. Cost: $4-6 per square foot material—premium for superior visibility. Best applications: Lake view porches where maximizing view critical, reading areas where bright light important, cottage exteriors where minimizing visual impact desired.
TuffScreen heavy-duty polymer: Seven times stronger than standard fiberglass—resists pet damage and high wind stress. Vinyl-coated polyester construction—won't tear, puncture, or stretch. Pet-proof performance—dogs and cats cannot damage with claws or jumping. Impact resistant—withstands hail, falling branches, thrown objects without tearing. Slightly reduced visibility versus standard fiberglass—more noticeable weave pattern but still transparent. Available in gray or black—black less visible than gray. Cost: $3-4 per square foot material. Best applications: Ground-level porches with pet access, homes with dogs, high-traffic areas, wooded lots with falling debris.
Standard fiberglass comparison: 18x16 mesh adequate for most applications—keeps out mosquitoes, flies, most insects. Most economical—$1-2 per square foot material. Charcoal color standard—good balance of visibility and durability. 10-12 year lifespan—eventual UV degradation requires replacement. Appropriate when budget conscious and no special requirements.
Selection guidance: BetterVue for: Lake views, reading spaces, bright interiors, minimal visual impact. TuffScreen for: Pet owners, ground level porches, high wind exposure, wooded lots. Standard fiberglass for: Budget projects, secondary porches, areas without special requirements.

Additional Cottage Details

Custom rafter tails: Exposed rafter ends extending beyond wall creating decorative detail—authentic to 1920s-1940s cottage architecture. Match existing cottage rafter tails—custom cut to replicate profile. Typical profiles: Straight cut, angled cut, curved decorative cut, notched ends. Cost: $50-150 per rafter tail depending on complexity—essential for architectural continuity.
Decorative brackets: Wood brackets supporting beam overhangs—ornamental and structural. Match existing brackets if present—maintains cottage character. Profiles: Simple angle bracket, curved Victorian bracket, mission-style straight bracket. Cost: $75-200 each depending on size and detail.
Screen doors: Wood frame screen door matching cottage style—traditional appearance. Pneumatic closer preventing slamming—protects door and frame. Decorative hardware—thumb latch, strap hinges, cottage-style handle. Cost: $400-700 for quality wood screen door installed.
Lighting: Period-appropriate fixtures honoring cottage era—lantern pendants, craftsman wall sconces. LED bulbs in vintage fixtures—energy efficiency with historic appearance. Dimmer controls—adjustable ambiance for entertaining. Cost: $150-400 per fixture installed.

Frequently Asked Questions: Screened Porches in Lakeside

Do I need a permit to screen in my existing deck in Lakeside?

Yes, because adding a roof changes the structural load on the footings—Chikaming Township requires building permits for any covered structure regardless of whether deck exists. Why permit required for screening existing deck: (1) Structural load increase—roof adds significant dead load (structure weight) and live load (snow accumulation) not accounted for in original deck design. Deck footings sized for floor loads only—50 PSF typical versus 80+ PSF with roof and snow. Inadequate footings may settle or fail under increased loads—creates safety hazard. Permit process includes engineering review—verifies existing foundation adequate or requires upgrades, (2) Roof attachment to house—ledger board bolted to house structure creates new connection point requiring inspection. Proper flashing essential—prevents water infiltration damaging house. Building inspector verifies correct installation—ensures no future leak problems, (3) Zoning compliance verification—adding roof may impact lot coverage calculations requiring zoning review. Setback verification—covered structure must maintain required distances from property lines. Height restrictions—roof peak must comply with maximum structure height limits. Foundation upgrade requirements: If existing deck footings inadequate: Pour new larger footings adjacent to or replacing existing—typically 24 inches diameter, 48 inches deep. Cost: $200-400 per footing (4-8 footings required = $800-3,200 foundation upgrades). Alternative: Design roof to transfer loads to house attachment and fewer new footings—reduces foundation work. Engineering required if loads questionable—structural engineer calculates loads and specifies upgrades ($800-1,500). Permit process for screening existing deck: Submit plans showing: Existing deck dimensions and foundation, proposed roof framing and dimensions, attachment details to house, screening method. Include: Site plan with setback measurements, lot coverage calculations, foundation detail drawings. Fees: $200-400 typical for screened porch permit in Chikaming Township. Timeline: 2-3 weeks permit approval assuming compliant design and adequate foundation. Inspections: Foundation inspection before roof framing, framing inspection before screening/ceiling, final inspection upon completion. Converting open deck to screened porch project scope: Foundation assessment and potential upgrades—engineer existing footings or install new. Roof framing—rafters, beams, posts supporting new structure. Roof tie-in to house—proper flashing preventing leaks. Roofing—shingles or metal matching or complementing house. Screening system—professional track installation with quality screens. Ceiling finish—beadboard or tongue-and-groove creating finished space. Flooring upgrades—seal gaps for bug prevention, improve drainage. Lighting and electrical—outlets, ceiling fan, switches. Cost: $18,000-35,000 for complete conversion depending on size, foundation work required, and finish level—essentially new structure despite existing deck.

What is the difference between a 3-season room and a screened porch?

A 3-season room has vinyl or glass windows to block wind and pollen, while a screened porch is open-air with only screening—fundamental distinction affecting comfort, cost, and seasonal usability. Screened porch characteristics: (1) Screen-only enclosure—mesh screening on all sides providing bug protection. Open to outdoor air—temperature inside equals outdoor temperature. Breezes flow through—excellent ventilation and airflow. Rain protection from roof—but wind-driven rain can enter through screens. Pollen infiltration—screens don't block pollen particles causing allergy issues, (2) Seasonal use—comfortable May through September in Michigan climate. Too cold shoulder seasons—spring and fall evenings uncomfortable without heat. Unusable winter—no protection from cold, snow, wind. Best for: Bug-free outdoor dining and lounging during warm weather. Cost: $25,000-45,000 for 12x18 to 14x20 screened porch with quality finishes, (3) Maintenance and longevity—screens require replacement every 10-15 years from UV degradation. Open to elements—furniture and finishes exposed to humidity and temperature swings. Regular cleaning—pollen, dust, spider webs accumulate on screens. 3-season room characteristics: (1) Eze-Breeze or similar window enclosure—vinyl panels that slide open and closed providing convertible enclosure. Blocks wind completely—comfortable in cooler weather when closed. Blocks pollen—allergy sufferers can use space during pollen season. Partial opening capability—75% ventilation when desired maintaining some enclosure. Screens behind vinyl panels—provides bug protection when windows open, (2) Extended seasonal use—April through October typical in Michigan climate. Spring use—closed during cool mornings and evenings, open on warm afternoons. Fall extension—captures solar heat on cool days, blocks wind in evenings. Can add portable heat—space heaters extend season into November, (3) Cost and construction—more expensive than basic screened porch: Eze-Breeze system $45-65 per square foot versus screening $10-14 per square foot. 12x18 three-season room: $30,000-55,000 complete installation. Still unheated living space—not as expensive as four-season sunroom with HVAC ($150-250 per square foot). Decision factors for Lakeside properties: Choose screened porch if: Budget limited—$10,000-15,000 savings versus 3-season. Only summer use important—comfortable weather sufficient. Prefer maximum airflow—unobstructed breezes priority. No allergy concerns—pollen infiltration not issue. Choose 3-season room if: Extended season desired—use April through October. Allergy sufferers in household—pollen blocking essential for May-June use. Wind protection wanted—cool evenings more comfortable enclosed. Higher property value—3-season room commands better ROI at sale. Maximum flexibility desired—convertible between open and enclosed as weather dictates. Hybrid consideration: Install screened porch initially with structure designed for future Eze-Breeze addition—allows budget-friendly staged construction. Add Eze-Breeze later—$14,000-20,000 retrofit cost converting existing screened porch. Maintains cottage aesthetic—both options provide traditional porch appearance.

Can you match the rafter tails on my historic cottage?

Yes, we custom cut rafter tails to match the existing architectural details—preserving Lakeside cottage character essential for architectural continuity and property value. What are rafter tails: Exposed rafter ends extending beyond wall creating decorative overhang—visible from exterior. Structural and aesthetic—supports roof overhang while creating visual detail. Common on 1920s-1940s cottages—era when Lakeside developed. Part of cottage architectural vocabulary—along with exposed beams, brackets, board-and-batten siding. Common rafter tail profiles in Lakeside cottages: (1) Straight cut—simple vertical cut creating rectangular end profile. Most common and economical—requires minimal shaping. Appropriate for craftsman and simple cottage styles. Replication: Simple table saw cut matching existing angle and length, (2) Angled cut—decorative angle (typically 30-45 degrees) creating sloped end. More refined than straight cut—adds visual interest. Common on bungalow-style cottages. Replication: Compound miter saw cut matching existing angle precisely, (3) Curved decorative cut—rounded or scrolled end creating ornamental profile. Victorian and craftsman cottage detail—more elaborate appearance. Requires template and jigsaw cutting—more labor intensive. Replication: Create cardboard template from existing rafter, transfer to new lumber, cut with jigsaw and sand smooth, (4) Notched or stepped profile—geometric cutouts creating architectural detail. Arts and crafts influence—celebrates joinery and craftsmanship. Most complex to replicate—requires careful measurement and cutting. Replication: Detailed template, multiple cuts, hand-finishing to match. WTS II rafter tail matching process: (1) Documentation—photograph existing rafter tails from multiple angles showing complete profile. Measure all dimensions—length of tail beyond wall, depth, width, decorative cuts. Create template—cardboard or plywood pattern capturing exact profile. Verify consistency—check multiple existing rafters as some may differ slightly, (2) Material selection—match lumber species if visible: Douglas fir, southern yellow pine, hemlock common in historic construction. Select appropriate grade—clear or #1 grade if exposed natural finish. Pressure-treated if painted—cost savings when finish hides wood species, (3) Fabrication—cut rafters to length matching existing overhang—typically 12-24 inches beyond wall. Cut profile using template—table saw for straight cuts, jigsaw for curves. Sand and smooth edges—removes saw marks creating clean finish. Pre-prime or paint if applicable—easier before installation, (4) Installation—install matching pattern of existing—typically 16 or 24 inches on center. Ensure tails align—straight line when viewed from side. Paint or stain to match—aged wood may require color matching vs. new bright wood. Cost for custom rafter tail replication: Simple straight cut—minimal cost premium, included in standard framing. Angled decorative cut—$50-100 per rafter tail including fabrication labor. Complex curved or notched profile—$100-200 per rafter depending on detail complexity. Typical porch with 8-12 exposed rafters—$400-2,400 premium for custom tail work. Why matching matters: Architectural continuity—new porch appears original to cottage rather than obvious addition. Property value—appropriate details preserve and enhance cottage value. Neighborhood character—maintains Lakeside's historic cottage aesthetic. Personal satisfaction—pride in authentic restoration respecting cottage heritage. When matching not required: Rear porches not visible from street—simple details acceptable. Modern interpretation desired—contemporary design intentionally contrasts historic cottage. Budget constraints—allocate funds to structural and functional priorities first.

Screened Porches & Covered Patios in Lakeside, Michigan

Lakeside Outdoor Living Specs