Mesh
Standard 18/14 insect screen
This application uses standard 18/14 mesh because the screen is installed beneath the floor for insect protection and is not intended as a primary viewing surface.
Under-porch screening
Screening installed beneath raised porches.
Best Screens staples standard 18/14 screen mesh to suitable wood joists beneath an elevated porch to help keep insects out of the space below. Wider rolls are used when practical to reduce overlaps.
A separate overhead application
Mesh follows the underside of the existing structure.
This method uses the accessible wood framing already beneath a raised porch. Standard 18/14 insect screen is pulled across the underside and fastened directly to suitable joists and perimeter framing with staples.
The purpose is insect protection for the area below the porch. This is not a visibility, privacy, pet-resistant or impact-resistant application, so specialty mesh is not normally needed.
It is different from a framed screen-roof enclosure. The porch floor remains above the mesh, and the existing joist layout determines the attachment surface and finished appearance below.
Installation approach
Larger rolls help reduce the number of overlaps.
Attachment
Stapled to the joists
The mesh is fastened to suitable accessible wood joists and perimeter framing. Staples and mesh edges are normally left exposed because they are beneath the floor and usually outside the main view.
Layout
Wider mesh where practical
Larger rolls can cover more of the underside in each run and reduce the amount of overlap.
Finish
Trim is optional in visible areas
When the porch is high enough to create a regularly used area below, trim may be added over the stapled edges if a more finished appearance is desired.
Project fit
Existing framing and obstacles matter
Joist direction, spans, blocking, stairs, posts, plumbing, electrical work and access affect the layout. We work around obstacles as effectively as the existing conditions allow.
Planning
Photos help define the scope
Wide views and close-ups of the joists, edges, stairs and obstructions help us evaluate the underside before an on-site visit.
Completed installations
Screening fitted around real porch framing.
These Best Screens projects show the mesh attached beneath different joist layouts, porch shapes and access conditions.
Under-porch screening questions
What this service includes.
Can damaged screening beneath a porch be replaced?
Yes. Best Screens can remove and replace damaged underside screening when the existing wood framing and access are suitable.
Do you cover the staples with trim?
Staples are normally left exposed because the work is beneath the porch floor and usually not in the main line of sight. If the porch is high enough to create a visible or regularly used area below, trim can be considered as part of the project.
Do you screen the vertical openings around the lower area?
Vertical perimeter openings are a separate conventional stapled-screening application. This page covers only mesh installed horizontally beneath the porch floor.
What if plumbing or electrical work is beneath the porch?
Plumbing, wiring, lighting and other obstacles can affect the attachment path. Best Screens works around them as effectively as the existing framing, clearance and access allow.
Does under-porch screening keep rain out?
No. Standard screen mesh helps block insects but remains porous. It does not waterproof the area, redirect drainage or replace an under-deck rain-management system.
Start with useful photos
Show us the underside, edges and surrounding structure.
Include the project city or ZIP code, wide views of the full underside, close-ups of the joists and perimeter, and photos of stairs, posts, utilities or other obstructions.