If you’re lucky enough to have a porch, then it’s important to make the most of it. A porch can be a great place to relax in the summertime or to enjoy the fall foliage. In this blog post, we will discuss some simple upgrades that you can make to your porch to improve its functionality and aesthetics. Whether you’re in North Carolina or another state, these tips will help you create a beautiful and inviting space on your property!
Porches And Why They’re Great Additions to Any Home
There are many reasons why porches are great additions to any home. First and foremost, they add extra living space—which is always a bonus! Additionally, porches provide an outdoor area where you can relax and enjoy the fresh air. They also make your home more inviting to guests.
If you’re thinking of adding a porch to your home, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, be sure to choose a style that will complement the rest of your house. You also need to make sure the porch is large enough to accommodate the activities you plan to use it for. And lastly, don’t forget to budget for necessary upgrades, such as a roof, porch railings, and steps.
Not only do porches add extra living space and outdoor entertainment areas to your home, but they can also increase its value if you ever decide to sell. In fact, a recent study showed that porches can boost a home’s value by an average of $11,000! So if you’re on the market for a new house, be sure to keep the potential value of a porch in mind. And if you’re wanting to add a porch to your current home, know that you’re not only increasing its curb appeal—you’re also investing in its future value.
Simple Upgrades That Can Be Made to a Porch
There are many simple upgrades that can be made to a porch, depending on its style and function, such as:
Adding Shade
If you want to add a bit of style to your porch, consider adding an awning. Awnings come in a variety of colors and styles, so you’re sure to find one that fits your home’s aesthetic. The North Carolina heat can be hard to beat especially in the Durham area, so be sure to look into some retractable awnings in Durham NC. They’re also great for providing additional shade on hot days. If you live in a hot climate, one of the most important upgrades you can make to your porch is adding some shade. This could be as simple as installing a few patio umbrellas, or you could go all out and add a pergola or gazebo. Adding shade will help keep you cool during those hot summer days.
Extra Seating
One way to make your porch more enjoyable is by adding extra seating. This can be as simple as adding a few chairs or a bench, or you could go all out and add a full-sized patio set. If you have the space, this can be a great way to increase your living area in the warmer months.
Making a Dining Area
Another way to make your porch more functional is by turning it into a dining area. This can be as simple as adding a small table and chairs, or you could add an outdoor kitchen for cooking up all of your favorite summer recipes. Having a designated dining area will allow you to spend more time outdoors with family and friends.
Adding a Fire Pit
A fire pit is another great way to add functionality to your porch. Not only will it provide warmth on chilly nights, but it can also be used for cooking and roasting marshmallows. It’s the perfect addition for those who love spending time outdoors.
Adding Lighting
One of the simplest upgrades you can make to your porch is adding some outdoor lighting. This can be as simple as installing a few solar lights, or you could go all out and add a porch light or chandelier. Outdoor lighting will allow you to use your porch well into the evening hours.
Turning Your Porch Into a Three-Season Room
If you want to get the most out of your porch, consider turning it into a three-season room. This can be as simple as adding some windows and a door, or you could go all out and add insulation, heating, and cooling. A three-season room will allow you to use your porch year-round, no matter what the weather is like.
Adding Porch Plants
One of the easiest ways to add some personality to your porch is by adding plants. This could be as simple as adding a few potted plants, or you could go all out and install a garden. Adding plants will not only make your porch look nicer, but will also help keep it cool in the summer months. Some plants to consider include Lavender, Rosemary, Thyme, Pennyroyal, Geraniums, Begonias, and many more.
Adding Hand Railings
If you are looking to add some hand railings to your porch, there are a few things that you will want to keep in mind. First, make sure that the railing is sturdy and can support the weight of people walking on it. You also want to choose a style that matches the rest of your home’s exterior. Finally, be sure to select a color that will complement your home’s paint job.
Upgrading your porch is a great way to add value to your home and make it more enjoyable to spend time outdoors. There are a number of simple upgrades you can make, such as adding shade, extra seating, or a fire pit. You can also turn your porch into a three-season room or add hand railings for safety. Whatever your needs, there is sure to be an upgrade that will suit you. If you are unsure of where to start, consult with a professional contractor for advice. They will be able to help you determine what upgrades will work best for your home and budget.
With a little effort, you can soon enjoy your upgraded porch all year round.