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Deck Planning Calculators |
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Free & Simple Deck Design Tool |
Porch Roof Options
Screen porches and gazebos are popular additions for outdoor living. You can really get the best of both worlds by having an indoor/outdoor room. These structures typically have stricter code requirements than decks and can cost quite a bit more.
SaveAdding a porch roof over your deck can provide a space to enjoy the outdoors whether rain or shine. The most basic gable end porches will shed water and snow and create a sanctuary from the sun. Some designers add screen walls to preserve breezes while keeping mosquitoes at bay. Tongue and groove cedar is the perfect material to finish a vaulted porch ceiling. Vinyl or aluminum soffits can be outfitted to reduce maintenance. Some high-end porches even feature fans, canned light fixtures and cable TV.
SaveGazebo structures can be built as standalone-enclosed areas beside outdoor decks. Octagon gazebos are popular and are usually built using cedar material. Screen windows, doors, trim molding and a variety of roof designs are available in easy-to-build kits.
The size and style of your porch or gazebo depends largely on your lifestyle and your budget.
The Porch Option
A porch is simply defined as a deck with a serious roof that completely shields out rain and snow and is attached to the house. (Unattached roofed structures may be called gazebos or pavilions.) A porch may have open sides, be screened in, have windows or window storm panes that are installed for part of the year. A back porch is typically deck-like in size and shape, so it can accommodate elements like a dining table, spa, fireplace and perhaps a grill (if it can be vented outside). A front porch is often a fairly narrow space, with room for chairs and small tables. Although, this is not a hard-and-fast rule. The great attraction of a porch is that you can enjoy an outdoor setting even when the weather is imperfect or when mosquitos are swarming. For that reason, many deck builders tell us that customers are leaning more toward porches these days, and that porches have become a growing part of their businesses. A porch roof also lets you add features that might not work on an open deck. For instance, you can have an overhead fan or light (perhaps the most popular porch feature), stereo speakers, a television and electrical outlets for appliances. A hot tub under a porch roof can be used just about any time. Consider building a porch roof over just part of a large deck. That way, you can stay in the open air when conditions are pleasant and retreat to a more protected location when things get uncomfortable.
SaveThis backyard porch has a stunning roof that features a vaulted beadboard ceiling made of stained natural wood, as well as a thick beam in the middle. Recessed can lights and low-hanging fan/lights keep it well lit and cool.
SaveA house’s original brick exterior can also serve as a handsome wall for a porch.
SaveAfternoon light filters through screening to lend a hazy glow to a cozy seating area. An overhead fan/light keeps things comfortable on muggy days, and speakers discretely mounted near the ceiling fill the room with sound or provide gentle background music.
10 Tips For Designing A Great Deck
This is an introduction to design. Start here to get some fresh ideas before designing your dream deck this year.
Deck Remodel Ideas
There are lots of reasons to remodel your deck and lots of ways to do it. If your worn-out wood decking needs replacing anyway, give low-maintenance composite deck boards a try.
Maximize Your Space with These 8 Under Deck Ideas
If you have an elevated deck, maximize the empty space below it with our top under-deck design ideas, from storage to landscaping.
IRC Code Requirements For Decks
Residential properties have certain code requirements that must be met before building a deck known as the IRC. Learn more about IRC building codes for decks at Decks.com!
IBC Requirements For Decks
The International Building Code (IBC) regulates deck additions attached to commercial buildings. Learn how IBC requirements may affect your project at Decks.com.
Building A Deck Over A Septic Tank
Building a deck on or near a septic tank is not the best idea and can result in a damaged or punctured tank. Learn more about building near a septic tank 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
Create a free account and get instant & exclusive access to all that Decks.com has to offer:
|
1,000+ How-To articles |
|
80+ Free Deck Plans |
|
Deck Planning Calculators |
|
Free & Simple Deck Design Tool |
Porch Roof Options
Screen porches and gazebos are popular additions for outdoor living. You can really get the best of both worlds by having an indoor/outdoor room. These structures typically have stricter code requirements than decks and can cost quite a bit more.
SaveAdding a porch roof over your deck can provide a space to enjoy the outdoors whether rain or shine. The most basic gable end porches will shed water and snow and create a sanctuary from the sun. Some designers add screen walls to preserve breezes while keeping mosquitoes at bay. Tongue and groove cedar is the perfect material to finish a vaulted porch ceiling. Vinyl or aluminum soffits can be outfitted to reduce maintenance. Some high-end porches even feature fans, canned light fixtures and cable TV.
SaveGazebo structures can be built as standalone-enclosed areas beside outdoor decks. Octagon gazebos are popular and are usually built using cedar material. Screen windows, doors, trim molding and a variety of roof designs are available in easy-to-build kits.
The size and style of your porch or gazebo depends largely on your lifestyle and your budget.
The Porch Option
A porch is simply defined as a deck with a serious roof that completely shields out rain and snow and is attached to the house. (Unattached roofed structures may be called gazebos or pavilions.) A porch may have open sides, be screened in, have windows or window storm panes that are installed for part of the year. A back porch is typically deck-like in size and shape, so it can accommodate elements like a dining table, spa, fireplace and perhaps a grill (if it can be vented outside). A front porch is often a fairly narrow space, with room for chairs and small tables. Although, this is not a hard-and-fast rule. The great attraction of a porch is that you can enjoy an outdoor setting even when the weather is imperfect or when mosquitos are swarming. For that reason, many deck builders tell us that customers are leaning more toward porches these days, and that porches have become a growing part of their businesses. A porch roof also lets you add features that might not work on an open deck. For instance, you can have an overhead fan or light (perhaps the most popular porch feature), stereo speakers, a television and electrical outlets for appliances. A hot tub under a porch roof can be used just about any time. Consider building a porch roof over just part of a large deck. That way, you can stay in the open air when conditions are pleasant and retreat to a more protected location when things get uncomfortable.
SaveThis backyard porch has a stunning roof that features a vaulted beadboard ceiling made of stained natural wood, as well as a thick beam in the middle. Recessed can lights and low-hanging fan/lights keep it well lit and cool.
SaveA house’s original brick exterior can also serve as a handsome wall for a porch.
SaveAfternoon light filters through screening to lend a hazy glow to a cozy seating area. An overhead fan/light keeps things comfortable on muggy days, and speakers discretely mounted near the ceiling fill the room with sound or provide gentle background music.
10 Tips For Designing A Great Deck
This is an introduction to design. Start here to get some fresh ideas before designing your dream deck this year.
Deck & Patio Landscaping Ideas
Looking for landscaping inspiration and ideas? Check out our ideas for turning your patio or deck into a beautiful oasis for entertaining and relaxing.
How to Build a Raised Deck
Building a raised deck can be a great option for some homeowners. Learn how to build a deck that is elevated above ground level with this guide from Decks.com.
IRC Code Requirements For Decks
Residential properties have certain code requirements that must be met before building a deck known as the IRC. Learn more about IRC building codes for decks at Decks.com!
Building A Deck Over A Septic Tank
Building a deck on or near a septic tank is not the best idea and can result in a damaged or punctured tank. Learn more about building near a septic tank at Decks.com.
Permits for Building a Deck: Why You Need One and How to Get It
Many homeowners are surprised when they are told they need to get a permit in order to build a deck. It may seem like a hassle, but it’s well worth the small investment of time and money to ensure your deck is built to code standards and in compliance with local regulations
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