Options for Adding Electric Fixtures To Your Porch
In many ways a porch can function as an outdoor room. If you are going to be spending a lot of time in this space, you will probably appreciate having access to electricity. Many porches have lights, ceiling fans and electrical outlets. Some porches even have speakers installed surrounding the room. You will need to plan for these features before you start building. A licensed electrician will be required to perform the work, but you will need to have a plan for where to run the electrical lines out of view. Some porches run the electrical conduit down the ridge beam of a hand-framed porch. Others use hollow 6x6 structural posts to run electricity from under the deck to the desired locations.
SaveA nice 3-season room with cable TV, a ceiling fan and can lights with a dim switch.
How to Build a Patio With Stone or Brick Pavers
Planning and installing a DIY brick or stone paver patio is a big project. Learn how to build a paver patio from start to finish here.
Our Favorite Porch Ideas & Designs for 2024
Looking for inspiration for your porch? Whether it’s a front, back or enclosed porch, we have ideas, designs and photos for you. Get inspired at Decks.com.
What is the Average Cost to Build a Front Porch?
The average cost to build a front porch depends on the type of porch and materials you use. Discover the costs of building a front porch at Decks.com.
Decking Patterns
Installing your decking at a 45-degree angle is a popular style for decks. This can be done to reduce decking seams or just for appearance.
6 Best Alternatives to Wooden Decking
While wood decking was previously considered the standard material for building a deck, that’s changed. Homeowners have been exploring and embracing different types of materials, and the availability of alternative decking materials has grown significantly.
Picture Frame Decking
Install a picture frame or perimeter board to finish the edge of your deck with style.
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
9 Conservatory Design Ideas for Indoor/Outdoor Living
Conservatories are a great way to ensure that you (and your plants) can soak up the sun all year round. Get inspired with conservatory design ideas.
How to Build a Porch: Steps for Building a Front Porch Deck
Building a porch can be challenging, but allows you to enjoy your outdoor space year round.Learn the basics about building a porch roof over a deck at Decks.com.
How to Demolish & Remove a Deck
At some point, it might become necessary to remove an old deck, due to age or condition. Learn more about what's involved in a deck demolition and removal project.
Tile decking
Installing tile over a standard deck frame in an exterior environment is a recipe for trouble.
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights