How to Build a Porch Roof
The national average cost of building a porch is around $20,000.
This may seem steep, but a porch can be a great addition to your home and one that will add curb appeal. Also, adding a porch roof will give you an additional space outside to enjoy where you can remain dry and elevated from the rest of your yard.
Keep reading to learn how to build a porch roof and enjoy more time outside.
Why Build a Porch Roof?
Porches come in various sizes, from minimal doorway coverings to large sweeping verandas. However, if left uncovered, you will not be able to spend as much time on it due to the weather, be it sun or rain. Also, you may find that the decking materials deteriorate more quickly.
By building a porch roof, you are extending the amount of time you can spend outside in comfort while protecting your garden furniture from the elements.
How to Build a Porch Roof
If you want to build a porch roof on your property, there are certain things you must consider. For starters, the materials and style of the roof you want to build.
It is a heavy but straightforward building task, so it is best not to undertake it on your own. You will need someone to assist you with heavy lifting and installing the vertical columns.
Any porch roof building guide will tell you that it is best to angle your roof rather than leave it flat. Flat rooves tend to leak as they allow water to pool, and they are difficult to waterproof. The angle should match that of the house roof for the best look.
Another one of the excellent porch roof building tips is to invest in solid materials for your ledger board. Structurally the ledger board supports over half of the entire porch roof weight. So you do not want to buy poor materials and suffer a potential collapse.
You will also need to gain permission to install any structure that attaches to your property. You may also need to submit architectural plans, which your local planning office will review and approve. You can find professional roof-building advice on this page.
Styling Your Porch Roof
Your porch roof should be covered with shingles that match your house roof. Mismatched tiles rarely look good and lower the value of the build.
You will also need to choose a good quality material for the vertical support posts. These will need to be six by six in size and grounded securely in concrete for maximum support. The posts must be eight feet apart from each other and no more.
Hire Professional Help
Hopefully, this guide has given you some insight into how to build a porch roof, but if you are still unsure about how to progress, speak to some professionals. They will talk you through the process from planning to design and help you get the best from your porch area.
If you would like to learn more about other home improvements for your property, check out some other blogs on our site.
