[debzaranti]

We had our back lanai (we have an Amarillo ranch) enclosed with acrylic windows (side-sliders) and had our concrete pad extended to the end of the house and added on a birdcage. Now we have the best of both worlds!

We also had our front "lanai" (started out as an open porch, but was under roof) first screened, then later enclosed with acrylics. WE LOVE THEM BOTH! Not only did it add 365 days a year more usable square footage to our home, but it gives us flexibility. We didn't add additional A/C or heat (ceiling fan in the back and floor fan in the front). We opted for clear windows and had vertical blinds installed for heat/sun control. It works for us and at minimal expense.

When we're home, we keep our access doors to the "added" rooms open and, with the fans, we get adequate ventilation. They are a bit warmer than the main body of the house, but quite livable. In the winter they are cooler than the rest of the house, but not unusable. We did not add insulation to either roof. The best part is when the summer heat passes, we can open up all the windows and let the beautiful breezes blow through.

We used Quality Aluminum, owner Blake Keedy, (352-326-9090) and are more than satisfied with his work and work ethic. We initially had a few leaks in the newly finished rooms. We'd call and Blake would come out within a day and bring his guys to fix it. One persistent leak took about 4 visits, but they kept coming out until it was tight and their work is very neat.

You will LOVE having your lanai enclosed (IMHO). BTW, we are in the Village of Amelia.