[dori2002]

Originally Posted by mtdjed

We have been in our home here since 2006. We expanded our Lanai in 2007 from 9' by 29' to 14' by 29' (around 400 square feet). Being from the north, we thought that an open Lanai would be a benefit. Note we do have a knee wall.

What we found was that summers were too hot to enjoy for any long period. Autumn not too bad. Winters hit or miss but found that tree pollens start in Jan and progress through spring. Pollens of all kind in spring meant allergies and lots of cleaning. Used to hose off floor and water turned yellow.

Finally decided to enclose in 2001. Enclosure method was influenced by our personal experience and wants. Note, we live on a Cul-de -sac and have a park like view from our Lanai. We decided that we wanted to make it our primary living area due to openness, view and size. Thus, big screen TV, area rug and oriental rug, Bar, recliners, credenzas etc. Also, a Minisplit for cooling / heating.

We selected picture windows on the long length and sliders and doors on the short lengths. No regrets and the sliders are seldom open. (Heat, Cold, Pollen)

This works out to be the best used part of our house.

Point is that opinions, situations, size, location, wants , all make a decision very personnel.

Thank you for the input. My wife and I both suffer from allergies. The Lanai backs up to a preserve and there are many trees and lots of vegetation. In all actuality not sure how much we would have it open to the fresh air. Up north we seldom had the windows open due to the pollen. Certainly a lot to consider before pulling the trigger.