Construct Covered Front Porch To Improve House

Adding a front porch can transform the look and livability of a home. With careful planning and design, a covered front porch provides multifunctional space to relax, entertain, and even boost property value. Constructing this new addition involves evaluating layout, obtaining permits, choosing materials, and more to create an inviting facade.

Homeowners aiming to enhance curb appeal often opt for a porch addition. This exterior makeover creates a welcoming first impression for guests while expanding usable square footage. Building permits allow certified contractors to assess site specifications before tailoring the ideal porch.

Benefits of Adding Front Porch to House Exterior

Many homeowners underestimate the advantages of appending a covered front porch. Beyond aesthetics, this renovation boosts functionality for years to come.

Expand Living Space

Adding a front porch essentially increases livable area without the higher costs of a full room addition. Homeowners gain outdoor square footage to decorate with comfy porch furniture, plants, and amenities. This multipurpose design accommodates larger groups for hosting and everyday relaxation

• A 12 x 16-foot porch adds nearly 200 usable square feet
• Larger wraparound porches provide abundant flexible areas

Enhance Curb Appeal

Approximately 98% of real estate agents class curb appeal as an important selling factor. Constructing an eye-catching front porch alongside other exterior updates can increase resale value. Design elements create welcoming first impressions for guest and give homes unique character:

• Pillar accents and railings reflect architectural style
• Stylish roofing and overhangs frame entrances
• Customizable with paint colors, lighting, materials

Add Usage Options

Covered front porches allow homeowners to enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing comfort. Protection from the elements means this flexible space works year-round for everything from morning coffee to family game nights.

• Add seating areas, grills, fire pits for entertainment
• Decorate with weather-resistant furnishings and greenery
• Install ceiling fans, heat lamps, and misters for climate control

Boost Property Value

On average, a front porch addition recoups roughly 65% of invested costs at resale. Value increases stem from expanded living area and modernized curb appeal. In fact, 93% of agents confirmed updated exteriors directly heighten perceived home value.

Improve Energy Efficiency

Well-designed porch overhangs actually help reduce indoor temperatures. Proper eave dimensions maximize shade and airflow to keep interiors cooler:

• Overhangs block up to 80% of summer sun
• Find overhang size by latitude to optimize sunlight control
• Plant shade trees and shrubbery to further regulate climate

Prepare for Front of House Porch Construction

While porches create wonderful improvements, careful preparations ensure ideal layouts suit overall home function and design.

Evaluate Current Exterior Layout

Inspecting existing architecture helps homeowners determine the most suitable porch size and placement. Measure available yard space and locate obstructions impacting the build.

• Consider sun exposure patterns when positioning
• Check for underground pipes/wiring routes to avoid
• See if structures need removing before starting the project

Determine Porch Size and Layout

When planning porch layouts, bigger dimensions often increase usage possibilities. Just ensure the scale complements home proportions for cohesive styling.

• Typical range spans 10 x 10 feet up to 14 x 20 feet
• Account for stairways, entrances, pillars in total area
• Include electrical and lighting during the design process

Obtain Permits and Approvals

Check local regulations to see if building permits apply for porch projects. Requirements vary amongst county and city jurisdictions. Submit proper documentation to avoid compliance issues down the road.

• Providers confirm porch meet codes for safety
• Failure to get permits risks fines, court orders, tear downs

Design and Build Front Entry Porch

Hiring certified contractors ensures porches suit regional weather and properly attach to existing exteriors. Aesthetic choices also integrate additions with overall home styles.

Choose Porch Construction Materials

Materials selection impacts the porch cost, durability and design cohesion. Classic options like wood suit traditional homes, while steel and synthetics update contemporary looks.

• Pressure-treated woods withstand weathering over decades
• Low-maintenance composites and PVC resist moisture damage
• Wrought iron, aluminum for lightness and visual appeal

Develop Floor Plan with Steps and Railings

Dimension layouts specify construction requirements like foundation specs, floor joists and skeletal framing. These basics provide structural integrity before cosmetic touches.

• Include stair width, landing depth, hand/guard rails in plans
• Calculate roof angles if designing covered porches
• Check for nearby trees that could disrupt builds

Install Porch Foundation and Support Structure

Proper foundations prevent shifting and settling cracks over time. Materials like concrete blocks or piers anchor the weight into the ground. Next, vertical columns and horizontal beams give open-air stability.

• Secure posts to foundation using galvanized hardware
• Level beam framework before moving ahead
• Brace existing exterior walls at connection joints

Add Porch Roof or Awning for Shade

Attaching covered porch roofs boosts weather protection so owners enjoy the space year-round. Match overhang materials like shingles or metal to the existing house for a streamlined look.

• Hip roofs slope away from homes to prevent runoff issues
• Corrugated metal withstands elements while adding texture
• Timber wood framing supports heavier roofing materials

Include Decorative Touches

Final design layers customize porches as favorite relaxation spots or entertainment venues. Include ambient lighting, cozy seating areas, ceiling fans for full functionality.

• Paint or stain finishes complement overall color schemes
• Built-in bench seating saves space
• Flower boxes, shrubbery soften structures

Maximize Use of New Front Porch Addition

Completing construction is only step one - finding ways to fully utilize the upgraded space comes next. Apply some creativity make the most of covered front porches.

Furnish Porch for Relaxation and Entertaining

Curating a welcoming environment starts with choosing durable, weather-resistant porch furniture. Include seating arrangements that accommodate both intimate and larger get-togethers.

• All-weather wicker withstands seasons outdoors
• Modular sectional configurations adapt to groups
• Sturdy coffee and side tables provide serving space

Integrate Into Landscaping and Lighting

Well-designed porches feel like natural extensions of the home through cohesive finishes. Repeat house colors in structural accents and transparent screens when aiming for seamless additions.

• Illuminate steps and pathways for navigation
• Add matching exterior sconces to entry doors
• Layer plantings and beds around the foundation