Parts of a Porch
SaveThe top of the roof frame is covered using tongue and groove plywood. The plywood is wrapped in roofing felt before adding 3-tab asphalt shingles. Roofs usually overhang a porch by at least 12” to properly shed water. Soffits and fascia are principal roof parts that are visible in the roof overhang. Fascia board runs vertically around the ends of the rafters in order to cap the ends and to hold the rain gutter. Soffits are built from a variety of materials and cover the underside of the roof overhang. Soffits can be non-ventilated or ventilated to allow cooling of the enclosed ceiling space. Ice and water shield and flashing should be used wherever necessary to prevent water from penetrating the roof system.
Screens can be fitted between support posts to allow air flow but to keep insects out. Electrical outlets and fixtures such as lights and fans can be installed to porch interiors. There are many ways to finish porches including installing tongue and groove cedar across the ceiling and back wall. Knee walls can be substituted for rails and operable windows and even skylights can be installed. Your imagination and pocketbook are your only limitations.
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.
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Building and framing a shed roof is not as challenging as you might think. Discover the step-by-step process for how to build a shed roof at Decks.com.
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Looking for ideas on how to decorate and design your patio? We’ve compiled ideas for all types of patio designs. Find your inspiration 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.
10 Common Deck Building Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
Building a deck can be a complicated process. Learn how to avoid falling into common deck building pitfalls with tips and advice from the experts at Decks.com.
Introduction to Decking
Spacing between deck boards provides several critical functions, such as drainage & drying. Learn how to space and stagger deck boards at Decks.com.
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
Parts of a Porch
SaveThe top of the roof frame is covered using tongue and groove plywood. The plywood is wrapped in roofing felt before adding 3-tab asphalt shingles. Roofs usually overhang a porch by at least 12” to properly shed water. Soffits and fascia are principal roof parts that are visible in the roof overhang. Fascia board runs vertically around the ends of the rafters in order to cap the ends and to hold the rain gutter. Soffits are built from a variety of materials and cover the underside of the roof overhang. Soffits can be non-ventilated or ventilated to allow cooling of the enclosed ceiling space. Ice and water shield and flashing should be used wherever necessary to prevent water from penetrating the roof system.
Screens can be fitted between support posts to allow air flow but to keep insects out. Electrical outlets and fixtures such as lights and fans can be installed to porch interiors. There are many ways to finish porches including installing tongue and groove cedar across the ceiling and back wall. Knee walls can be substituted for rails and operable windows and even skylights can be installed. Your imagination and pocketbook are your only limitations.
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.
Different Types of Porch Roof Designs
There are a few roof types and designs when building your porch. Learn the difference between gable, hip, shed style and more porch roofs types at Decks.com!
7 Tips to Keep Bugs Away From Your Patio
Don’t let mosquitoes, flies or ants stop you from enjoying your patio. Learn the best way to keep bugs away so you can get back to relaxing 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.
Picture Frame Decking
Install a picture frame or perimeter board to finish the edge of your deck with style.
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.
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