How to build a porch?

Hi Diana,

Nice idea, but we need specifics! That being said, be sure you have plans and the plans meet codes for your area. Also there are many options for porches...electricity, number of steps, wood or synthetic, roof, front or back of house...etc. Here is a link for a basic one:

https://www.front-porch-ideas-and-more.com/how-to-build-a-deck.html

I'd go to you tube and look at videos on that subject. Be sure to specify concrete or wood. You'll find several that could fit your project.

Hi Diana, can you provide some more details? Why type of house would it be fore and what type of materials are you looking to build it out of thanks. We will try to provide as much help as we can.

That's a very loaded question. There are many things to consider. Will it be attached? What type of material? What is the slope of the roof?

If you are a novice builder, this is a big project to take on. Some advice I would give is to use hurricane ties for attaching it. Use decking boards, they are a bit thicker. If you want to paint it and you are using pressure treated lumber, make sure it is cured (at least 3 months) before painting. Think about what you will be putting on it when you choose the size, such as a swing or grill or rocker.

Are you looking to build a concrete patio? Or a patio with a covering on top? Is this for the front porch or a back patio? All different. If you already have concrete and want a covering, check out Costco Gazebo kits! They are awesome. If it is a front porch you might want to get a contractor. If it is for pouring concrete in backyard patio, you can do it yourself. I have a post for you:

https://karupp-did.net/pour-a-cement-pad-diy/

Your question is broad. We might be able to help you better with more specifics!

Diana: maybe this will help

https://www.decks.com/how-to/336/introduction-to-porch-building

This is a great article, covers a lot of bases. https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-build-a-porch/

Hello Diane,

You will need Planning Permission to put up a porch if it comes beyond the building line of the home. It might be better to ask a builder to come and give you a price for what you have in mind. Ask him all the questions re: Foundations, Structure, Roofing, Time and Costs etc. before doing it yourself.

Check that pin https://www.pinterest.com/pin/25684660364811354/

We actually need to go through two offices when we change anything on the front of the house, facing the street. Check out your process that's required first. Good luck and stay safe!

Here are some ideas: https://www.hometalk.com/search/posts?filter=build%20a%20porch

Here is a link that might help:

https://www.wikihow.com/Build-Porch-Steps#:~:text=%20Building%20the%20Porch%20Steps%20%201%20Calculate,of%20steps%20from%20the%20face%20of...%20More%20

Start with an architect or certified experienced designer. I’ve 30 years in that profession.

Starting with a Builder will not address a huge amount of questions. You’re not ready to build yet, you have to do Due Diligence, design with Budget In Mind and much much more.

This is too broad of a question and we have no idea what your Scope Of Work is,

let alone all the other challenges noted above, plus your “skill level”.

Repairs are one thing, building new is not for this forum. Sorry.

It's going to depend a lot upon what's existing, what the building codes are in your area, and if you're living in a homeowner's association situation as well as what kind of porch you're looking to build. Check around Hometalk using the search bar at the top left for ideas.

Hi Diana, hope this helps

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JR29M0JQ7d8