Just Do It - Build Your Own Porch!

The front of a house seems incomplete without a veranda

. In the back of your house, it can be a fantastic setting for private parties. It's also a good place to relax after a long hard day.

Those who wish to capitalize on their power tools and carpentry skills may be interested to know how to build a porch. First, though, check if any building permits are needed and that your plans comply with local building codes. Building even an open, unscreened porch may require a permit as it is considered an extension or add-on to your house.

One of the first things to install is the footing, or posting. This supports the entire veranda and attaches it to the ground (naturally) and must be done well for good results. An easy way to determine where the posts should be located is to mark off the boundaries of your intended porch. All that needs to be done next is to dig down to the frost level; about 12 inches across for each post and pour the concrete.

One way to put in a post is to first place the post in the hole and pack dirt around it before setting it in concrete. The other involves first pouring about 8 inches of concrete in the hole, leaving it to set for a day before inserting the post. The next 2 inches are filled with rounded gravel before the rest is topped off with concrete. All concrete must be left 24 hours to dry before proceeding further.

Ledger boards are attached to the house before the deck is completely built. Usually, 2' x 10' boards are nailed directly onto the sill about 4 inches under the door and provide more support for the veranda. Subsequently, joists can be attached via joist-hangers that are attached to the ledger board with galvanized screws. Beams are installed atop the joists, followed by the decking material of your choice. Always use pressure-treated lumber that has been treated to be weather-resistant.

The railing you install as a final touch can be build from a railing kit obtainable from hardware stores. Once again, you are required to comply with safety standards set forth by local building codes. Now you no need to search for a carpenter for building a porch, you yourself can build a beautiful porch.

by: Brian Jones

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