You don't need to choose between enclosing you lanai and having a birdcage. We did both. We expanded and enclosed the lanai on all three exposed sides with sliding doors that collapse into the space of one panel (4 feet). We also put a birdcage on one of the sides of the lanai such that the 16 foor door, when fully opened, creates a 12 foot opening into the birdcage.
While we love being able to use the lanai regardless of the weather, we also love to eat most of our meals and have happy hour out in the birdcage. We were fortunate to have the cage on the east side of the lanai such that the hot afternoon sun is not an issue after about 4 PM. We also added an outdoor floor fan and light combo (available from Sams Club as a seasonal item) that goes into the hole in our table where an umbrella usually would be. The shade from the house and the air from the fan makes even the warmest afternoons and evenings very comfortable. I was extremely dubious about the value of the birdcage, but am now very happy I listened to my wife and included it into the design of our expanded lanai.
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