How to Build a Covered Porch
A covered porch will allow you to enjoy the outdoors in spite of what the weather might bring. No need to run into the house just because of a little rain. There are quite a few materials and tools you need, but the installation is fairly easy.
Things you will need:
- Four-by-four pressure-treated lumber
- Decking board
- Cement
- Sand
- Water
- Footing clamps
- Screws
- Nails
- Foundation tubes
- Tar paper
- Asphalt shingles
- Exterior-grade plywood
- Salt-treated lumber
- Metal angle iron
- Electric screwdriver
- Concrete nails and screws
- Light fixture and wiring
- Circular saw
- Hammer
- Drill with bits
- Measuring tape
- Chalk line
- Shovel
- Wheelbarrow
- Gloves
- Stakes
- Pencil and paper
- Choose your location. Decide if you would like your porch in the front or back yard. Since you will essentially be building, you will need to check with your local building department to inquire if a permit is needed.
- Position your stakes. The stakes will serve as the marks for the corners of the porch. Next, dig a footing which will serve as the anchor for the porch. It should be at least a foot wide and 40 inches deep.
- Position your decking and joists. Do it section by section if you are building a large porch. The joists should slide easily into place and just need to be nailed to the ground.
- Install your decking. Cut and lay your decking first and then lay down the railing supports.
- Measure the porch. Once you have the porch installed, measure the area to determine the size that the roof needs to be.
- Use nuts and bolts as the support beams for your roof. The purpose of a covered porch is to protect it from mother nature, and nails and screws just won't cut it for this part of the job.
- Connect your wiring. Install the wiring for the porch lights in the ceiling.
- Paint your porch. Once you have completed the porch, paint or stain it to match the exterior color of your home.