Front Porch Addition Before and After Transformations

An inviting front porch can transform a home, providing extra living space and curb appeal. Homeowners looking to enhance their exterior often consider a front porch addition, dreaming of a cozy spot to relax or host guests. While a major renovation project, porch additions reward homeowners with dramatic "before and after" makeovers. From dated, cramped entryways to grand wraparound porches, this exterior upgrade takes homes to the next level.

If you're contemplating a front porch addition, get inspired by the amazing before and after photos ahead. Discover the benefits of expanding your home's footprint with a new porch. Learn what's involved in the remodeling process. With proper planning and design, you too can achieve a showstopping front porch transformation.

Benefits of Front Porch Additions

Why do so many homeowners invest in front porch additions? These highly desired projects offer numerous benefits that make the investment worthwhile.

Additional Living Space and Added Home Value

A front porch effectively expands your home's livable square footage. Unlike a back deck or patio, a front porch feels like an integral part of the home. With seating, tables, and lighting, it becomes a true outdoor living room perfect for unwinding alone or hosting get-togethers.

Adding livable space naturally boosts a home's value. A 2016 National Association of Realtors report found that homeowners recoup about 65% of the cost of a porch addition upon selling. Curb appeal and functionality make front porches a wise renovation for increasing resale value.

Improved Curb Appeal and Aesthetic Upgrade

Nothing transforms a home's look like a new front porch. These additions introduce architectural details that immediately class up plain facades. Column accents, pitched rooflines, and crafted railings present a polished exterior that impresses from the curb.

On older homes, a front porch addition can modernize dated aesthetics. Contemporary materials like composite decking and cable railings make traditional homes look fresh and current. Improved street presence boosts perceived home values.

More Outdoor Relaxation and Entertaining Space

Front porches designed for comfort invite relaxation and connection. Rocking chairs, swings, and padded furniture beckon homeowners outside. Ceiling fans, sun shades, and screening provide pleasant spots to unwind. Gather guests in the new space for parties, cookouts, and everyday conversations.

Covered front porches allow outdoor enjoyment regardless of the weather. Make the most of warmer months without worrying about harsh sunlight. Stay dry on the porch during spring and summer showers. Enjoy the outdoors into fall thanks to light layering.

Protection from Sun, Rain, Wind with Extended Roof

Unlike a portico entryway, front porch additions extend the main roofline out over the new space. This provides excellent shelter from the elements for homeowners, guests, and outdoor furniture. Sitting "under one's own vine and fig tree" is a hallmark of porch life.

Look for roof styles like gabled and hipped designs that slope down over the porch. Make sure overhangs are generous--a minimum of 4 feet--to prevent rain or snow from blowing inside. Box columns often support porch roofs, adding architecture.

Planning Your Front Porch Addition

While front porches make fantastic upgrades, realize these projects require extensive planning and labor. Arm yourself with information before tackling a porch addition.

Hire an Architect to Draw Plans

Work with a residential architect experienced in porch design. They will ensure structural integrity and account for elements like footings and load-bearing beams. Architectural plans are often required for permitting. Expect to pay $1,500 to $4,000 for complete porch addition blueprints.

Get Required Permits and Contractor Quotes

Most front porch additions necessitate building permits, which require a waiting period for approval. Be sure to meet codes and zoning laws for your area. Also get multiple bids from licensed contractors once you have permits in hand. They can consult on options to meet your budget.

Choose Porch Footprint Size and Layout

One big decision is the porch's footprint. Standard designs include:

• Full-width porches stretching across the front of the home.
• Wraparound porches that join the front to a side.
• Portico entryways centered on the front door.
• Extended porches with decking areas and steps.

Factor in existing architecture, yard space, views, and lighting exposure when choosing your ideal porch layout. An experienced designer can advise on options.

Select Porch Roof Style: Gable, Shed, Hip, Flat

Matching the roofline to your home's style is key for a cohesive look. Consider:

• Gabled roofs on Craftsman bungalows or farmhouses.
• Shed roofs on rustic cottages.
• Hip roofs on Colonials and cabins.
• Flat roofs on modern and ranch homes.

Roof pitch impacts overhead space--go higher for an airy ceiling. Dormers add light while preserving architecture. Roofing material choices range from asphalt to metal and beyond.

Pick Porch Columns, Railings, Windows, Materials

Design decisions remain for elements like:

• Classically inspired columns vs. sleek metal posts.
• Ornate spindle railings or modern cable wires.
• Add character with arched windows or none at all.
• Red brick, painted wood, stucco, stone--so many siding options.
• Composite or pressure-treated for deck boards.

Visit porches in your area to get inspired. Drive around neighborhoods with homes similar to your own. Use pictures to communicate design ideas to contractors.

Before and After Transformation Photos

Nothing shows off the dramatic improvements of front porch additions like before and after pictures. See how homeowners took their homes from drab to fab with these amazing exterior remodels.

Dramatic Makeovers from Dated to Modern

Outdated facades get fresh modern updates with new porches featuring clean lines, metal accents, and contemporary materials. Swapping a crumbling stoop for a sleek porch instantly modernizes traditional homes. Crisp white trims against bold siding colors keep the look current.

Expanding Small Porches to Grand Entrances

Many older homes have tiny entry porches that feel undersized. By widening and extending the porch footprint, homeowners gain impressive wraparound porches. Spacious decking and steps extend the "outdoor entry" to welcome guests. High-end materials like brick and stone lend elegance.

Matching New Porch to Home's Architectural Style

Most homeowners aim to complement their front porch addition to the house design. For instance, Craftsman porches feature chunky columns and exposed beams. Farmhouse porches include board-and-batten siding and metal roof accents. Details should feel cohesive from the street.

Open Concept Bringing Indoor/Outdoor Flow

To blend interior and exterior living space, some homes open up the front facade with sets of French doors. The seamless indoor/outdoor transition makes interiors feel brighter and more expansive. Cafe curtains or roll-down screens provide privacy when desired.

Before Shots Show Outdated Spaces, Afters Reveal Upgrades

Checking out before shots shows why dated porches beg for improvement. Peeling paint, sagging roofs, and rotted rails make a case for replacement. The "after" images showcase incredible transformations ranging from quaint country to high-end modern. Possibilities are endless!

While exciting, also brace yourself--front porch additions require demolition, construction, and finishing labor. Understand what's involved before embarking on your exterior renovation journey.