Parts of a Porch
![Porch Anatomy](/media/a4zgugp3/porch_anatomy.jpg?format=webp)
The 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.
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.
How To Finish Your Porch
Add some finishing touches to give your porch a bit of style. Learn about covering your porch ceiling, railings, soffits, fascia and trim 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.
Dos & Don'ts for Homeowners to Consider When Building a Deck
Your dream deck can take whatever shape you like. The trick is making it fit your budget and site conditions. While the deck doesn’t have to be built as a rectangle, there could be good reasons for doing just that.
Tile decking
Installing tile over a standard deck frame in an exterior environment is a recipe for trouble.
More Helpful Resources
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Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
![Framing](/media/5wrarsgy/all-articles_framing-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
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Learn about wood and composite decking materials
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Features
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Design
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Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
![Porches and Patios](/media/sg5bst1z/all-articles_porches-and-patios-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
![Ledger](/media/0htjl4uu/all-articles_ledger-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
![Care](/media/qdpnwkry/all-articles_care-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
![Materials](/media/zqfflkeo/all-articles_materials-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
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.
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.
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!
How to Install and Fasten Deck Fascia
Installing deck fascia can be easy if you have the proper tools, fasteners, and practical information that you’ll find right here.
Dos & Don'ts for Homeowners to Consider When Building a Deck
Your dream deck can take whatever shape you like. The trick is making it fit your budget and site conditions. While the deck doesn’t have to be built as a rectangle, there could be good reasons for doing just that.
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.
Explore Articles by Topic
![Footings](/media/3vsas025/all-articles_footings-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
![Framing](/media/5wrarsgy/all-articles_framing-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
![Decking](/media/meljt4np/all-articles_decking-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
![Stairs](/media/2sopl0br/all-articles_stairs-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
![Railings](/media/hpwbuyzr/all-articles_railings-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
![Features](/media/tvcahlmk/all-articles_features-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
![Design](/media/3bvpzvtz/all-articles_design-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Design
The basics of deck design
![Planning](/media/qdenqrqv/all-articles_planning-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
![Porches and Patios](/media/sg5bst1z/all-articles_porches-and-patios-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
![Ledger](/media/0htjl4uu/all-articles_ledger-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
![Care](/media/qdpnwkry/all-articles_care-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
![Materials](/media/zqfflkeo/all-articles_materials-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights