If your historical porch is starting to deteriorate and show its age, it’s probably time to consider a remodel. Adding a new porch adds curb appeal, increases your home value and adds additional outdoor living space for your family and friends to enjoy. There are precise things you need to think about before beginning your project.

Determine Your Home’s Style

There are generally three types of homes with historical front porches. A porch that features an end to end covered front porch with columns is considered a foursquare home. Other homes are either a Victorian, which has more embellished trim details and fluted columns, or maybe you have a more traditional American Craftsman with a simple porch. Determining the style of your home will help you create your dream porch to match your home’s characteristics.

Attention to Detail

Look at your porch carefully, do you want columns or railings, will your new porch enhance your front door and windows? If you have a covered porch with living space, determine if you need historical tongue and groove decking. During renovation you may discover original details that have been covered up for decades, by siding or other material, from an earlier project. Using modern materials, you can reconstruct your home to bring back its original beauty, while matching the historical design of your house.

What Material to Consider

Attention to styles and materials helps maintain the historical look of your home. Generally, there are two types of styles and material to consider; tongue and groove fir or stained grade or a paint grade. Composites are also important, they are more durable, last longer, and are more flexible to match the style of your porch.

When to Call a Professional

Sometimes the job is too big, or you might discover problems that may require a specialist. If you discover rot or if your porch is sagging, it might be time to get some help. Water can cause damage to your porch’s foundation which could be a bigger issue than you want to repair yourself.

Importance of Maintenance

Help extend the life of your new porch so it lasts another 100 years. Repaint it every five years, check to see if there are holes that need patching or seams that need to be caulked. Avoid rot by ensuring your downspouts are directed away from any main supports.

Remember to honor the style and historical value of your home when replacing your porch. You can use modern materials to beautify your home, and still create the look your historical home deserves.

Creativity makes all the difference in remodeling your home! Becraft Plus has vast experience in designing and remodeling porches of every kind. Contractor experience makes all the difference. 

Contact Us (301-929-3401) For a Free Consultation!

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About Becraft Plus

Since 1989, Becraft Plus has provided customized design and construction services to customers in the Washington, D.C. area. We specialize in custom home building, additions and remodeling, and whole house renovations with a focus on creating living spaces that are tailored to the needs of our clients.
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