Options for Adding Electric Fixtures To Your Porch
In many ways a porch can function as an outdoor room. If you are going to be spending a lot of time in this space, you will probably appreciate having access to electricity. Many porches have lights, ceiling fans and electrical outlets. Some porches even have speakers installed surrounding the room. You will need to plan for these features before you start building. A licensed electrician will be required to perform the work, but you will need to have a plan for where to run the electrical lines out of view. Some porches run the electrical conduit down the ridge beam of a hand-framed porch. Others use hollow 6x6 structural posts to run electricity from under the deck to the desired locations.
SaveA nice 3-season room with cable TV, a ceiling fan and can lights with a dim switch.
How to Build a Patio With Stone or Brick Pavers
Planning and installing a DIY brick or stone paver patio is a big project. Learn how to build a paver patio from start to finish here.
How To Build a Gazebo
A gazebo can be a great addition to your outdoor space. Learn the basics of how to build a gazebo for your space at Decks.com!
How to Install & Build a Porch Roof
It's important to know the propper matierials neded to build a porch roof to prevent water damage. Read more about building a porch roof at Decks.com.
Decking Patterns
Installing your decking at a 45-degree angle is a popular style for decks. This can be done to reduce decking seams or just for appearance.
How to Install Composite Decking
Learn about how to install composite decking. Topics include expansion and contraction issues and hidden fastener systems.
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
9 Conservatory Design Ideas for Indoor/Outdoor Living
Conservatories are a great way to ensure that you (and your plants) can soak up the sun all year round. Get inspired with conservatory design ideas.
Parts of a Porch
Porches, just like decks, have a lot of different & important parts. Learn more about the anatomy of a standard porch with this article from Decks.com.
Building an Outdoor Space with James DeSantis
Composite decking can not be placed directly on concrete. But a substructure can solve for this. Explore this deck project with James DeSantis
Best Hidden Fasteners for Decking
Hidden fasteners create a clean deck surface and can be used with composite, wood and other materials. Learn about hidden deck fasteners at Decks.com.
Dos & Don'ts for Homeowners to Consider When Building a Deck
Your dream deck can take whatever shape you like. The trick is making it fit your budget and site conditions. While the deck doesn’t have to be built as a rectangle, there could be good reasons for doing just that.
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights