Porches are typically considered to be an entryway into the house. The type of porch that is attached to the home and often defines its architectural style. A front porch is usually located on the house’s facade and will run across either one or two stories of the building. It serves as an important element for both communication and socialization.
A front porch is usually enclosed with screens to protect visitors from insects while they are outside; however, at night, this space will be opened to provide access to the front door, which is often embellished with special lighting or seating. Front porches add to the aesthetic appearance of the house and can be decorated with potted plants, rugs, outdoor furniture, including chairs and tables.
Types of Porches
Various companies offer different kinds of porch enclosures that can be attached to every design and architecture home. Let’s have a look at these types:
1. Open Porch
Open porches are typically open-air structures, with railings and screens that can be used to protect visitors from insects. This type of porch is usually made out of wood slats or PVC attached to form the framework for the enclosed space before being covered with protective material. The material used for this outer frame commonly consists of vinyl, aluminum, or wood.
Open porches are the most economical type of porch enclosures that is available for purchase. This can be attached to any house provided that there is enough space for installation. There’s no need to modify the original structure of the home unless extensive changes are desired.
2. Front Entry Porch
This type of porch is usually attached to the exterior front facade of a house. It serves as an entryway for visitors where they can sit and relax before entering the house. Front entry porches usually consist of four or more posts that extend from the home’s foundation and include balusters and railing styles to create a barrier between the porch and the ground level below.
Front entry porches are often used in conjunction with other exterior features, including brick or stone, to create a harmonious design consistent with the home’s original architecture. In addition, a roof can be added for additional shade or rain protection, depending on the region where the house is located.
3. Screened Porch
A screened porch is similar to an open porch in many ways. However, the structure is enclosed with screens that protect it from insects and other environmental conditions such as wind and rain. It can be attached to a house or fitted onto an existing deck or patio.
A screened porch is typically attached to the home, but it could also be built by attaching framed walls to the existing structure. If you plan to build a screened porch that measures more than 20 square feet, you will need building permits.
Screened porches require less maintenance than enclosed structures because they are often open-air. However, screens will need to be replaced periodically, and it is advisable to use insect screens with a fine mesh. This type of porch will provide protection from bugs and insects and the sun’s heat and UV rays.
4. Back Porch
A back porch is typically located at the rear of a house and is primarily an outdoor living space. It can be attached or independent from the main house and is often enclosed with a ceiling. Back porches typically include cabinets and other storage units for lawn equipment such as lawnmowers or other tools.
A back porch may also be attached by creating an exterior hallway that runs alongside the structure between the front entry and rear door. A kitchen could also be included in this area, and a mudroom provides access to the back door.
When a structure is not desired, a back porch can also be part of an existing deck or patio structure. In some cases, a back porch can be an open-air space covered by a roof on the rear of the house.
Back porches offer a great space for entertainment and can include cabinets and storage units to suit the needs of homeowners better. In addition, it functions as an outdoor living area and can be used as a substitute for the kitchen or den on those warm summer days.
5. Farmer Porch
A farmer porch is a back porch that is significantly larger than the standard design. It may include a small kitchen or wet bar to provide outdoor entertaining and cooking on warm summer days. Some also include additional bedrooms, so they function as small apartments.
A farmer’s porch can be attached to a home without major changes to its architecture or structure. It is typically found in homes located in rural areas where farmland can be seen from the house.
These porches are popular in older homes built during the 1800s and early 1900s, but they continue to be used by homeowners who want additional space for entertaining or cooking outside on warm summer days.
This type of porch is an excellent option for homeowners who want to add additional space without changing the original structure of their homes. They are also well-suited in warm, rural areas where farming is common.
6. Deck
A deck porch is a type of porch that typically includes railings and supports to function like a balcony. A floor may or may not be present, depending on the style and design of the structure. Decks are often protruding spaces that extend from the house or other structures such as gazebos. They can also be platforms, stairs, or even ramps.
Decks are typically used as porches on the rear of houses, but they may also be located at the front entrance. In addition, they can include railings that function like balconies, and they often serve as functional areas where homeowners entertain family and friends.
The design of the deck will vary according to its location and purpose. For example, a deck located at the rear of a home will typically be smaller than one attached to the front porch.
Decks can also vary in style depending on how they have been constructed and the type of materials used to create them. Decks made from wood or other similar building materials require regular maintenance to ensure they continue to serve their purpose.
7. Portico
A porch or portico is a roofed entranceway to the main house. The design of this type of structure can vary depending on its style and location. Porticos may be small and include only one column, or they may be larger and feature two columns or more to lend support. They can also include a roof and ceiling, as well as railings.
This type of structure is found at the front or rear entrance of a home and includes railings for safety purposes. Porches are typically situated on the front of homes, but they may also be located on the side or back.
Porches are important architectural features that serve functional purposes, including setting the style and tone. They can also create an entranceway to the house or serve as functional outdoor areas where homeowners entertain family and friends.
8. Detached Porch
A detached porch is a structure that is not attached directly to the main house. Instead, it may be free-standing or connected to other buildings such as gazebos, sheds, or other structures on the property.
These porches are often found at the rear of homes, and they typically include railings and columns for support. The design of a detached porch can vary depending on its purpose and location.
Detached porches are typically situated at the side or back entrance of a home, but they may also be located in front of a building if desired. This type of structure is commonly used as an area for entertaining guests and family gatherings. It may even include a cooling station for drinks on hot summer days.
9. Patio
A patio is a flat area that serves as an entertaining outdoor space. It may include railings for safety purposes, but it does not have the architectural features of other types of porches such as columns or supports.
Patios are functional areas where homeowners can sit and relax outdoors over the warmer months of the year. They are commonly situated at the rear of a home, but they can also be placed at the front entrance for added ambiance.
Patios are commonly designed with small spaces that feature built-in benches or chairs where homeowners can relax and enjoy their yard or garden views.
10. Wrap Around Porch
A wrap-around porch is a type of detached structure that includes railings around an area. They are commonly found at the rear of homes, but they may also be located at the front entrance.
This type of porch can feature columns or support beams in areas where it attaches to the main house or other structures on the property. The design will vary depending on the purpose of the porch and its location.
Wrap-around porches create a large outdoor entertaining space that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. They provide homeowners with an additional area to sit outdoors and enjoy views of their yard, garden, or other landscape features on the property.
11. Rained Porch
A rain porch is a type of roofed structure that extends over an outdoor entryway. They are commonly used to provide shelter for homeowners when entering and exiting the house.
This type of porch may include a ceiling, and it can also include columns if desired to enhance its design. They are generally open and unenclosed spaces that can be used as an additional sitting area or to protect from the elements.
Rain porches are typically found at the main entrance or exit of a home, but they may also be applied to service entrances if desired. They are important design features that protect from rain, snow, and wind. They also provide homeowners with extra seating space and a place to store footwear before entering the main part of the house.
Conclusion
There are many different types of porches that homeowners can choose from when enhancing their outdoor living space. Each type has its unique features, and they serve functional purposes and enhance the design of a home. With so many options available, homeowners are certain to find the perfect fit for their needs, wants, and desires.
