RENOVATION GUIDE
AS WELL AS OFFERING A WARM COUNTRY WELCOME, A NEW PORCH WILL ADD SPACE, AND BOOST YOUR PROPERTY’S VALUE AND KERB APPEAL
All you need to know about front porches
WHAT SHOULD I CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING MY PORCH?
Start by thinking about how you intend to use it. An open porch generally consists of a roof installed onto the exterior of your property and offers shelter and a place for storing boots and logs, but little in the way of weather protection. A fully enclosed structure is a mini extension to the front of your property. It offers aesthetic impact and can be doubleglazed, insulated and heated to create an additional, functional space in your home. Insetting a porch within the footprint of the house is another idea, although this can impede on floor space. Before making your final decision, take proportions into account; a large enclosed design on a modest home will look out of place, for example.
I’M LIMITED ON OUTSIDE SPACE WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS?
Designed to sit neatly above a door, a canopy porch offers the simplest and most cost-effective alternative to a heavier-looking design. Garden Requisites has a smart selection of scoop and arch canopy designs with optional side supports, all made from durable galvanised solid steel, which can be adapted to accommodate architectural features, and are available in a range of sizes (including a made-to-measure service). Petite porches are also available if budget and space allows.
WHAT MATERIALS CAN I CHOOSE FROM?
It depends on the type of porch. While enclosed designs tend to require brick or stonework, the most common materials for open porches include timber, steel and aluminium, with the former preferred for rustic country style. ‘Cedar looks great for contemporary porches, while green oak is a nice fit for traditional designs; a strong wood with a high moisture content, it will develop cracks as it shrinks and dries to a silvery shade – all part of the charm,’ says David Sutton, owner and designer at The English Porch Company. ‘If you’re opting for a painted finish, a pretreated softwood is adequate.’
SHOULD THE MATERIALS MATCH THE HOUSE’S STYLE?
It’s important to ensure the porch you choose is sympathetic to your property, particularly if your home is close to other houses. Typically, this will involve using the same materials, although contrasts can work well in some cases. A timber porch set against stone walls with an aged flagstone floor can be a magical addition to a country farmhouse, for example. Always bear in mind that the porch roof should reflect the style of that on the house, with a visual break between the porch ridge and the first-floor windowsill. Thatched roofs can also look charming when scaled down to porch size.
HOW ELSE CAN I ADD CHARACTER?
Attention to detail on the posts, brackets and sides can make for a unique finish, while incorporating architectural features is a clever way of ensuring a stylish porch that’s consistent with the look of a period property. For example, porches or porticos with classical-style architrave and columns are particularly associated with Georgian houses. Think about colour, too; if you have a brightly painted front door, choose a complimentary shade on your porch structure or a natural finish. Finally, flooring – traditional floor tiles that are suitable for exterior use can be run from the porch across the threshold and into the hallway without any worry of damage by the cold weather.
WILL I NEED TO BUY A NEW FRONT DOOR?
Not necessarily. Often, with an enclosed design, the existing front door can be moved to the exterior face of the porch with a new interior door installed to create a draught lobby. It might also be possible to
incorporate glazed side panels into veranda-style porches – a clever way of counteracting heavy timber designs. These protect the front door while still allowing light to stream through.
DO I NEED PLANNING PERMISSION?
A porch can usually be built without planning permission, provided that it does not exceed 3sq m in area, is no higher than 3m and no closer than 2m to any highway. However, we’d always advise checking with your local planning department, particularly if your property is listed or in a conservation area.
WILL I NEED TO EMPLOY AN ARCHITECT?
If the porch does not require planning permission, an architect is not generally required for the job. However, be mindful that a poorly constructed porch can detract from a property. Many porch suppliers will be able to give advice and some also offer a bespoke design service. Porch kits are also an option. As well as its bespoke service, The English Porch Company offers cost-effective and simple-toinstall designs in kit form, made to your exact requirements.
DOES A NEW PORCH REQUIRE FOUNDATIONS?
Yes, sometimes they are needed. Factors to consider include soil conditions, whether the ground is sloped and the combined weight of the frame and roofing materials. Your architect or builder will be best placed to offer advice based on your individual circumstances.
WHAT LIGHTING SHOULD I LOOK FOR?
A well thought out lighting scheme will make your porch an attractive, inviting space. Look for natural metal finishes and interesting patinas such as weathered bronze, copper and brass – they’re low maintenance and weather beautifully over time. ‘A lantern, box wall lights or exterior bracket lights by the front door will also enable you to find your keys in the dark,’ says Peter Bowles, managing director, Davey Lighting. ‘It’s worth investing in good-quality lighting; so choose one with an IP rating of 44 or above to ensure it can withstand the elements.’
CAN PORCHES AFFECT A PROPERTY’S VALUE?
‘A well-designed and professionally finished porch can add significant appeal to a property, making it more stylish, practical and desirable. All these elements contribute to a property’s value and it is generally considered that a beautiful porch will make a future sale more likely,’ says David.