How Do I Choose the Best Porch Roof Plans?

The best porch roof plans incorporate the existing style of the house and the porch design with the best methods of shedding rain and snow common in the climate. Ultimately, the purpose of the porch roof is to protect the porch deck from moisture and excessive sun, to offer a temporary shelter for visitors and residents entering and leaving the house, and to lend a visual appeal to the building. Some homeowners also have additional needs, such as storage for a finished porch or stylized porch decorations for formal curb appeal. The roof must reflect the existing design as well as adequately fulfill the basic job of a roof.

Porch roof plans are created in a wide variety of styles: the flat roof, gable roof, gambrel roof, shed or cat slide roof, or a combination of designs. For most homes, the porch roof should slope at the same pitch as the house roof. This prevents the do-it-yourself porch roof remodel from looking out of place with the existing architectural style of the home. Most porch roof plans recommend a slope of 4/12, or 4 inches (about 10.16 cm) per 12 inches (about 30.5 cm), to 9/12, or 9 inches (about 22.9 cm) per 12 inches (30.5 cm).

The porch roof plans must also take into consideration the type of roofing material currently installed on the house. For example, composite fiberglass shingles are inappropriate for a low-pitch flat porch roof. If your home's main roof already contains asphalt shingles, you will need to adjust the slope of your design and build a porch roof that matches the type and style of the existing roofing material. Roof material manufacturers often include their recommendations for proper slope and overhang lengths for their products. Check the manufacturer instructions for the recommended pitch and any other specific directions when considering a new porch roof.

Porch materials are available in a dizzying array of choices: rubber for flat roofs, asphalt or fiberglass composite shingles, metal plates or metal shingles, and terracotta or slate tiles. You can hone your selection by first considering the architectural style of the house. Snap a few photos to compare and contrast these images with the various proposed porch roof plans. Consider the styles of other houses in your neighborhood to become acquainted with the various styles common in your region.

Do not feel limited by neighboring houses, however. If you plan to construct a porch facing an attractively landscaped backyard or lovely vista, consider a four seasons porch. This type of porch combines thick glass walls with a glassed roof or a simple cantilever roof. Finally, always consult your local building codes department before you build a porch. Many municipalities require a building permit and must approve the porch roof plans before you begin construction.