Florida Home Ownership

What is the difference between a lanai, patio, and porch in Florida?

Answered by Maria G.

In Florida, these terms are often used loosely but technically mean different things. A porch is an attached roofed structure at the front or back of a home, open on the sides. A patio is an unroofed outdoor ground-level space, often paved. A lanai is a Florida-specific term for a screened, roofed outdoor living area — essentially a screened porch or covered screened pool area. Lanais are the gold standard for Florida outdoor living because they keep out bugs while staying open-air.

Barrett Henry

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With over 23 years of real estate experience, Barrett helps buyers and sellers across Valrico and the Tampa Bay area. Straight talk. Smart strategy.

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