DIY Builds
Photo by Klaus Nielsen Pexels Logo Photo: Klaus Nielsen

Does adding a porch add value?

Getting right to the bottom line, adding a porch will very likely increase your home's value. As a homeowner, when it's time to sell your home, you hope to recoup the money you spent to add a porch. Some sources say the average return on investment for a porch addition is around 84%.

What's the best shed base?
What's the best shed base?

Gravel is the best shed foundation, especially for portable buildings that come with a wood floor. Concrete is the ideal foundation for a garage or...

Read More »
Are plastic sheds easy to break into?
Are plastic sheds easy to break into?

Plastic sheds are just not as secure as wooden or metal ones and can easily be broken into, making them not the safest place to store high priced...

Read More »

Porches have the power to enhance and improve your home in ways nothing else can. Many of you thinking about adding a porch are wondering if a porch will increase the value of your home. Those who’ve already added a porch and are now enjoying it will answer, Yes, it certainly will! Expert porch builder Archadeck of Columbus is ready to answer your questions about porch additions.

Do porches add value to your home?

There are several ways to answer this question because value means different things in different contexts. When you ask about value, many assume this is just a monetary consideration, and sometimes it is – especially if you plan to sell your home. Whether you’re going to list your home or hope to stay there forever, adding a porch increases your home’s value in more ways than one.

Value = Return on monetary investment

Getting right to the bottom line, adding a porch will very likely increase your home’s value. As a homeowner, when it’s time to sell your home, you hope to recoup the money you spent to add a porch. Some sources say the average return on investment for a porch addition is around 84%. We advise clients to keep in mind that it will depend on the real estate market in your area when you list your home. Timing is a factor. If all conditions are in your favor, including the value of nearby homes, you might recoup 100% of your porch – or more. Clearing a profit? It’s possible – but not guaranteed.

Are porches included in square footage?

Good question! The most concise and direct answer is Probably not, but that doesn’t mean a new porch won’t increase your home’s resale value. In order to include a porch in your home’s square footage, the porch would need to be enclosed and heated through your home’s HVAC system. A room addition that’s heated through your home’s HVAC system is more likely a sunroom or 4-season room than a porch. However, a room that’s enclosed with windows instead of screens and is heated through the home’s heating system might be called a “sun porch.” In that case, the answer would be Yes.

Value = Stunning curb appeal

Increasing your home’s square footage is not the only way to increase your home’s value. If you add a stunning front porch or portico addition that transforms your home and stops buyers in their tracks, it will add value to your home. Curb appeal is not over-rated. What value do you place on the complete transformation a new front porch can create? If you’re planning to sell your home, when you see the effects of a new front porch you may decide not to move! The power of curb appeal is not just for home-buyers. It’s for you, too! When your home gets a front porch makeover from Archadeck, you’ll feel a thrill every time you return home and see it. You can derive sheer joy from seeing how beautiful and inviting your home becomes with a new front porch. Remember, when it comes to Outdoor living: If you like it, then you should definitely put a roof on it!

How do I get a Barndominium loan?
How do I get a Barndominium loan?

How to Finance Your Barndominium Banks or Credit Unions. These have traditionally been the places in the past from whom you would obtain financing....

Read More »
What is the biggest shed without permit?
What is the biggest shed without permit?

Do You Need a Permit to Build a Shed? If your shed is larger than 120 square feet, then you will need a building permit. Some areas only allow non-...

Read More »

How far out can you cantilever a deck?

The American Wood Council states that cantilevers are limited to 1/4 the span of the joists. Joist Spacing (o.c.) Maximum allowable overhang cannot exceed 1/4 of the actual main span.

Deck Joist Cantilever Rules and Limits

The distance your joists can safely cantilever or overhang a drop beam is determined by the size of the joists, the wood type and grade of the lumber and the spacing between joists. Many building departments limit joist cantilevers to 24" maximum. Generally, you should use at least five framing nails to attach the rim joist to the ends of your joists. It's highly recommended to always contact your local code department to ensure all code and safety requirements are being met before building any decking structure. The American Wood Council states that cantilevers are limited to 1/4 the span of the joists. Joist Spacing (o.c.) 12" 16" 24" Species Size Allowable Overhang Southern Pine 2x6 1'-0" 1'-1" 1'-4" 2x8 1'-10" 2'-0" 2'-4" 2x10 3'-1" 3'-5" 2'-10" 2x12 4'-6" 4'-2" 3'-4" Douglas Fir-Larch, Hem-Fir, Spruce-Pine-Fir 2x6 11" 1'-0" 1'-2" 2x8 1'-8" 1'-10" 2'-2" 2x10 2'-10" 3'-2" 2'-9" 2x12 4'-4" 3'-11" 3'-3" Redwood, Western Cedars, Poderosa Pine, Red Pine 2x6 9" 10" 11" 2x8 1'-5" 1'-7" 1'-9" 2x10 2'-5" 2'-7" 2'-8" 2x12 3'-7" 3'-9" 3'-1"

Maximum allowable overhang cannot exceed 1/4 of the actual main span.

How much does a 10x10 wood shed cost?
How much does a 10x10 wood shed cost?

Cost Estimator by Size SHED SIZE TYPICAL COST RANGE 10×10 (100 sq. ft) $2,000 to $17,500 10×12 (120 sq. ft) $2,400 to $21,000 12×12 (144 sq. ft)...

Read More »
When should I start watering my concrete?
When should I start watering my concrete?

For a typical concrete mix, you can start watering after about 12 hours. For fast-dry concrete like quikrete, which is designed to dry much...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »
Should you put landscape fabric under a deck?
Should you put landscape fabric under a deck?

Keep Under Your Deck Weed-Free A ground covering of landscape fabric topped with 3–4 inches of gravel is the best way to keep weeds from growing...

Read More »
Are shed plans easy to follow?
Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

Learn More »
What are old barn beams made of?
What are old barn beams made of?

Most of the beams that come from old barns throughout our mid-Atlantic region were constructed from mostly oak and chestnut. Reclaimed chestnut...

Read More »