Skip to Content

What is a covered back patio called?

A covered back patio is known as a patio enclosure. These are outdoor living spaces that are either partially or fully enclosed with walls and roof structures made of wood, metal, glass, canvas or other materials, or a combination of these.

Patio enclosures provide a way to expand living space and add an outdoor retreat and gathering spot, where you can enjoy the outdoors while still being protected from the elements. Some patio enclosures are permanent structures and may include features such as ceiling fans, fireplaces, and skylights.

Other patio enclosures are temporary and can include screens, curtains, or retractable awnings. All patio enclosures provide a way to make the most of the existing patio area and extend the usability of the space.

What are the types of porches?

The most common types of porches include the screened in porch, the open porch, the wraparound porch, the sunroom, the veranda, and the balcony.

A screened in porch is a covered outdoor area with screens that keep out bugs, dust, and debris, while allowing air to flow freely inside. This type of porch can be attached to the home, or freestanding with its own support structure.

To give a screened in porch more character and curb appeal, decorating elements such as planters, chairs, and tables can be added.

An open porch is an uncovered area of a home’s exterior that serves as a gathering space for family and friends. This accent structure can be designed to match the architectural style of the home, and often features an accompanying railing.

If desired, railings can be replaced with a picket fence for a charming country look.

A wraparound porch is a great choice for larger homes, as the name implies, it wraps around the home, giving homeowners plenty of space for furniture and decorations. A wraparound porch can also provide a shaded area.

A sunroom is often used as an extension of a home’s interior, while also providing a way to appreciate the outdoors in comfort. Glass walls and ceilings make it possible to experience the outdoors without dealing with the unpleasant aspects of the weather.

A veranda, or a Victorian porch, is a two- or three-story porch with ornamental columns and railings. This type of porch is often used in grand homes to enhance the overall design, making it an visually appealing outdoor space.

Finally, the balcony, or the outdoor version of a living room, is located on the second floor of a home and is typically accessible through a sliding/French door in the bedroom. A balcony is a great spot for morning tea, reading a book, or simply enjoying the view.

What do they call a back porch in Florida?

In Florida the term often used for a back porch is a screened porch or a lanai. A screened porch is an outdoor living space that features a roof, floor and walls covered in screens to keep bugs out. They are typically found attached to a home, but can also be a freestanding structure.

A lanai is a screened porch that is common in the southern U. S. and especially in Florida because it offers protection from insects and other harsh outdoor elements while still allowing a view of the outdoors.

Lanai porches are often made with poured concrete or pavers and covered with a roof to keep out the sun and rain. A lanai can be a great place to relax and enjoy being outdoors without the annoyance of insects and weather.

What’s the difference between a porch and a lanai?

The primary difference between a porch and a lanai is that a porch is typically located directly off the entrance or main living spaces of a house and is open to the outdoors, whereas a lanai is a covered, open-air space that is usually separate from the home, attached as an addition in its own space.

Porches typically have a roof and railings or columns, while lanais usually have a solid roof, often made of wood, with screens or windows to contain the outdoor space. Porches are usually accessible from the interior of the home and are used for relaxing or entertaining.

Lanai are more like outdoor living rooms, with the added bonus of protection from rain, sun and bugs. They can be used for entertaining, relaxing, dining or other activities.

What is a back lanai?

A lanai is a type of outdoor living space typically found in the warmer areas of the southern United States. It is usually a covered, screened-in porch or balcony area that is partially open to the outdoors.

The term comes from the Hawaiian verb “lanai,” which means “to invade with the intention of taking. “.

A back lanai is a lanai located in the back (or rear) part of a home. It is usually used as an outdoor entertaining and dining space, or as a sheltered place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Many times it can be accessed from both the interior of the home, as well as the exterior of the home.

It can provide a great way to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, while still maintaining a sense of privacy and shelter from insects, animals, and the elements. Depending on the amount of space available and the homeowner’s preference, the lanai can be large and provide plenty of room for different seating and dining areas, or it can be small and more intimate, providing more of an outdoor retreat.

Often, a back lanai will contain items such as outdoor furniture, potted plants, and porch swings, providing a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for gathering, entertaining, or just relaxing with a good book.

Decorations such as strings of lights, wreaths, and flags can also be used to create a lively, yet cozy atmosphere.

What is a porch called in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, a porch is referred to as a lanai. Lanai is the Hawaiian word for porch, and comes from the native language of Hawaii. Lanai porches are typically found on or around the exterior of homes, which can offer relaxing spaces and great views of the surrounding area.

They can be open or enclosed, depending on personal preference and weather conditions. Lanai porches are popular in Hawaii and are a great place to spend time with family and friends, or to simply relax and take in the beauty of nature.

Why do they call it a lanai?

The word ‘lanai’ is borrowed from the Hawaiian language. It’s derived from the Hawaiian word “lanai” which translates to “veranda”. The term is commonly used to refer to an outdoor patio or terrace that is usually situated next to a pool.

It is also used to refer to a specific enclosed porch located in the rear of a home or other building.

Lanais were popularized in the early 20th century when the first wave of resorts and hotels began popping up in Hawaii. These businesses sought to provide a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere for their guests.

Thus, many times they constructed lanais that extended from the main building, often surrounded by lush, tropical landscapes. Lanais soon became an iconic part of traditional Hawaiian architecture and culture.

Today, lanais can be found around the world. They are often used as an extension of the living room where people can gather to enjoy the outdoors, or to host an intimate dinner. The use of lanais in modern architecture often seeks to combine traditional Hawaiian elements with modern elements, creating a unique and inviting space.

What is considered a porch?

A porch is an architectural term for a covered structure that is typically built onto the front or side of a home, often facing an open area such as a lawn, driveway, garden, or sidewalk. Porches can be an important feature of a home, providing a space outside the main living area to relax and enjoy the outdoors, while also adding visual interest to the exterior of a house.

Porches typically consist of a roof, columns and beams, railings, and usually one or two walls with an entrance door leading into the home. Depending on the design, a porch may be open or screened. Porches can be either detached from the home or attached to the exterior walls of the dwelling.

Common types of materials used for porches include wood, masonry, metal, and vinyl.

How much does it cost to add a back porch?

The cost to add a back porch will depend on a few factors, such as the size, materials used, labor costs, and additional features you may choose to include. On average, a basic 8×8-foot porch built in vinyl may run you anywhere from $3,000 to $4,500, depending on where you live.

If you choose to build your porch in wood, you may pay a bit more, as the cost of materials may be higher. You may also need to factor in labor costs associated with framing, carpentry work, and other related tasks.

These costs vary based on the complexity of the project and the experience of the laborers.

If you choose to add features such as a railing or posts, you should expect to pay even more, with costs starting around $400 and going up from there, depending on the type of material used. You may also wish to add furniture, lighting, ceiling fans, or other amenities, which will further increase the costs.

It’s also important to keep in mind that you may need to pay for local permits, especially if the porch exceeds a certain square footage. Depending on the rules and regulations in your area, you may need to shell out anywhere from a couple hundred dollars to a few thousand, for starters.

In the end, the cost to add a back porch can vary greatly, depending on the factors mentioned above. While it’s helpful to consider an average, it makes sense to get estimates from local contractors that you trust, to get an accurate picture of what you can expect in terms of expenses.

Does adding a back porch add value?

Yes, adding a back porch can add value to your home and is an excellent way to enhance your home’s aesthetic appeal. A back porch provides an extension of the interior that you can enjoy while outdoors and often requires minimal construction, making it a cost-effective means of improving your home’s overall appeal and value.

Furthermore, a back porch is a great opportunity to add extra living space; whether used as an extra relaxation area or play space for family and friends, it’s a great addition to any home. Additionally, having a back porch can add value as it defines the back yard space and gives it a more defined and aesthetically-pleasing look.

Finally, depending on what you want to do with your back porch, some back porch projects can even add energy efficiency to your home, adding even more value.

Does a porch need to be attached to the house?

No, a porch does not necessarily need to be attached to the house. A gazebo, or a screened-in porch. Each of these options can be built to suit the particular style and function desired. A free-standing deck is a great option for smaller areas, as it can be built off the ground, allowing for a lower structure than an attached deck.

A gazebo provides a retreat and also adds an outdoor living space, as well as shade, with less construction than a deck. A screened-in porch provides comfort and protection from insects and can be designed with both floor and ceiling to create a comfortable living area outdoors.

Ultimately, each option must be evaluated to determine the best solution for the needs and layout of the property.

Can I build a porch without planning permission?

Generally, it is possible to build a porch without planning permission in the UK, however there are certain conditions that have to be met in order for this to be the case. If the porch is to be built at the front of your property, then the combined ground floor area (including the porch) must not exceed three square metres.

Additionally, if the height of the porch is to exceed three metres then planning permission will likely be required. There are other conditions set out in the Permitted Development Order which need to be taken into account, such as extensions must not be more than 4 metres in height for a two storey property and no more than 3 metres for a single storey property.

It is also important to bear in mind that even if planning permission is not required, Building Regulations approval may still be required, and therefore it would be best to seek advice from your local authority’s building control department if you are uncertain.

It is also advised to contact them regardless to ensure you meet all relevant regulations.

Do I need foundations for a porch?

Yes, you need foundations for a porch. It is important to build a solid foundation when constructing a porch to ensure that it can support the weight of the structure and any additional loads it might have, like furniture and people.

Depending on the type of porch, its size, and the soil conditions at your location, your foundation could consist of one of several options. In some cases, you may be able to use concrete footers and posts, if there is a need to raise the porch above the natural grade.

If you are adding a porch to existing decking, a support beam may be used in the construction of the porch. You may also need to install a concrete foundation, if there is a need for the structure to be structurally sound.

Ultimately, what type of foundation you use will depend on the type of structure you are putting up, the size of the porch, and the conditions at the location where it will be built.

Do you need a permit to build a porch in Florida?

Yes, you typically need a permit to build a porch in Florida. This is because Florida requires a building permit for any addition, alteration, or major repair that adds value to a property, and many porch projects fit this criteria.

Depending on the size and scope of the project, you may also need to submit plans to the local building and zoning department for approval before obtaining a permit. Required permits and inspections will vary from locality to locality, so it is important to contact your local authorities to determine what kind of permit you will need.

In some cases, a contractor may need to pull a permit on your behalf.

How do you add a porch to an existing roof?

Adding a porch to an existing roof can be a relatively straightforward process, depending on the complexity of the design. Generally speaking, you will need to attach posts or columns to the existing roof and then construct the framing for the porch, including rafters and joists.

Next, you will attach the decking, which could be made from wood, composite, or other materials. The railing and balustrades should be added afterwards, along with the finishing touches like paint and any accessories you wish to add, such as awnings or lights.

You should always check the local building codes to ensure your addition is up to code. Consider also consulting a professional to help you navigate the process, as they can provide valuable guidance and inputs to ensure the porch is properly built.

Where is a porch located on a house?

A porch is typically located at the entrance of a house, right off the main entrance door. Depending on the design and size of the house, a porch may be located on the front, side or back of the house.

It can also be located in a corner connecting two sides of the house. A porch may extend the length of a house, wrap around the sides and be two stories high, or be a simple covered entrance with a few steps leading to the door.

Porches serve as an ideal gathering space for family and friends and can be used for a variety of activities such as reading, relaxing, and socializing. They can also provide shade and protection from the elements, or offer a place to store outdoor items like bikes, lawn mowers, and garden tools.

Whats the front porch on a house called?

The front porch on a house is commonly referred to as a stoop, stoop steps, entrance steps, or portico. A stoop typically refers to the base of the stairs that leads up to the main entrance of a house while a portico refers to a larger entrance structure that often includes an overhang or roof.

A stoop will usually have at least one step and may consist of up to several steps. The steps and platform of the stoop may be constructed of concrete, stone, or wood, and often include handrails to ensure safety.

The style of the stoop may vary from house to house and often reflects the distinct style and design of the house. Many homeowners choose to decorate the stoop with plants, artwork, and other decorative pieces to help enhance the exterior of their home.

What is the porch area?

The porch area is any area of a home or building that is covered and enclosed by walls, columns, or railings and typically has a door leading from the house or building itself. It is a traditionally outdoor space and is often considered an extension of the indoors.

Porch areas are typically used for outdoor seating and entertaining and come in many styles and sizes to suit the preferences of homeowners. Some common features of porch areas include built-in furniture, fireplaces, fans, lighting, plants, and decorative items.

Depending on the size, porches typically provide enough space for additional seating for outdoors during warm weather months. Porches offer a safe and comfortable area for guests to gather and make for a great spot to watch sunsets or sunrises.

What is the meaning of porch in house?

The word “porch” typically refers to a covered outdoor entryway structure, found attached to the exterior of a house. It can be either partially or fully enclosed and typically has railings. As a description of a location within a house, “porch” usually refers to a specific section of the house, usually located at the entryway or just inside the front door.

Porches can vary in size, style, and shape, depending on the type of house they are attached to and their intended purpose. Many porches are designed with a comfortable seating area, providing a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, while also offering protection from the elements.

Benches, chairs, and tables are common features of a porch, as well as plants, flowers, and other decorative accents. Porches are also used for entertaining, for storing coats, umbrellas, and other outdoor items, and for providing a space for guests to enjoy the outdoors while keeping out of the rain.

What is the area in front of a building called?

The area in front of a building is typically referred to as the facade or frontage. It is the part of the building that faces the street or other public space. The facade is often what people first think of when they envision a particular building, and it is often the main entrance to the building.

The facade typically includes features such as windows, entrances, outdoor landscaping, and other architectural elements that help create an aesthetically pleasing appearance. It also may indicate the purpose of the building, whether it is a residential building or a business.