The word “porch” is evolved from Latin word a portico that means entryway of temple. In early times porches or porticos were normally built as entrance hall of churches that were being used as gathering area for people before and after services. Different cultures and nationalities have different styles for porches according to their tradition. Irrespective of the origin, a porch is the part of home that is common with neighbors. Porches are a place from where you can exchange greetings with your neighbors as well as sit and enjoy your surroundings as porches are a traditional place for rocking chair.
Remodeling old houses for 21st century look is often proved to be a difficult task because remodeling old houses is a project that means preservation, renovation and restoration. Perfect balance is also necessary for remodeling old houses in a perfect manner. It has been observed that original design scheme of a house is the best but still homeowner want to add some curb appeal and extra features when remodeling old houses. Remodeling old houses by adding porches or renovating existing old porches will add curb appeal to old houses and also increase its resale value. Adding porch or deck is the best option when remodeling old houses. New houses are built with properly designed porches. In early times architectures and home owners ignored the entrance and it was more or less a blank. Entrance is the primary concern of any building. Adding a porch to the entrance will offer shelter and warm look. It will also add character to your old house. In addition to this it will also offer a useful living area at a low cost. It will give an accelerated facelift to your house. Not every other person is capable to invest huge amount of money to add master bed and luxurious bath when remodeling old houses. Adding porches is an inexpensive way for remodeling old houses as compared to other old house remodeling projects. Any upgrade to the front entrance of an old house will offer unique look to the whole neighborhood. Properly built porch has pleasant effect on the whole community. Whether you are going for a complete old house remodeling or you are renovating some portion of your old house, the exterior has to be changed and up-graded by adding a porch.
Different Types of Porches
While remodeling old houses, the owners can select from a variety of porches that are different because of their architecture:
- Colonial Porches
- Greek Revival Porches
- Gothic Porches
- Victorian Porches
Colonial Porches
It includes verandas or balconies and is built off the ground. They offer good view and cooling for other rooms. It is the prominent design feature of Spanish and French Colonies.
Greek Revival Porches
It is actually second story veranda hold up with thick support. This style of porches was very common before civil war.
Gothic Porches
These porches provide sitting area to ground level allowing you to keep in touch with natural surrounding.
Victorian Porches
These porches are built in a way that they wrap the whole house. This style of porch was very common in late 1800’s. This type of porch is the largest in size and can be used for social gatherings. Ornamental wood lace and hanging baskets are specifically use to decorate such porches.
The Modern Porch
Nowadays porches are also known as enclosed or open area. Small enclosures before main entry of a home are specifically called porches. Porches will also allow locking air between outside environment and offer comfortable interior. You can leave your dirty shoes and wet coats on a porch. With latest advancement in designing approach modern porches act as extension of a home that is further connected with outside via patio doors or large screens. Porches connect with outdoor and do not let bugs, rains and wind to come in.
Importance of Planning a Proper Porch
Adding a porch, when remodeling old houses, is also a home addition project that needs proper planning. Planning will help you to complete your project in an ideal way. Take in account the following points:
Design
The very basic thing is the design of a porch. Before selecting any design check its compatibility to the rest of home design. Try to avoid the design that will not match with your house when remodeling old house.
Location
This depends on your choice as well as it will also have to confirm the local building codes. When remodeling old houses, check the building codes of the area before selecting a design.
Size
You can choose the size according to your choice. Future utilization of this area should be taken in account; whether it will be used for big dinner parties or just to read and relax outside.
After checking all civil rules and regulation plan budget for remodeling old houses by adding porches. Porches are built on deck structure with cement pylons and joist system. Porches do not need any basement. You can also save money when adding porches to remodel your old house. If you have limited budget it is not necessary to go for a complete finish. Some feature can be left untouched and can be upgraded later.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Adding Porches When Remodeling Old Houses
It is necessary to consider advantages and disadvantages of building any extra structure especially when you are remodeling old houses:
- The first considerable advantage of remodeling old houses via building new structure is that it will pay you back good amount at the time of sale.
- Another advantage is that it is less expensive as compared to buying a new house. Addition in building is convenient and affordable option for remodeling old houses.
- Remodeling old houses by adding extra structure will allow you to apply all your creativity and designing skills. You can enjoy remodeling old house with your personal touch.
- Building a new structure is very intelligent way to add extra space to your home. It is easily applicable idea when remodeling old houses. One can add porch, deck or attic to remodeling old houses.
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