# DIY Porch Construction
Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
- Sketch pad
- Graph paper
- Shovel
- Trencher/plow
- Concrete block
- Gravel
- Metal grid work
- Stucco
- Brick
- Nails
- Framing boards
- Concrete
- Premade porch posts
- Bolts
- ½-inch plywood
- Metal flashing
- Soffit vents
- Asphalt shingles
- Metal roofing
- Cedar shakes
- Guttering
- Downspouts
- Splash blocks
- Porch and deck paint
- Premade railings
Instructions
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1
Measure the space for the porch and draw its shape on graph paper. Plan the roof, railings and foundation in scale with the rest of the house. Draw all details, including steps and a sidewalk leading to the porch.
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2
Dig the foundation for the porch foundation. Dig the foundation by hand or use a trencher that functions as a small plow rented from a local supply company. Plan a concrete porch foundation by installing a concrete block base filled with dirt, gravel and metal grid work on top of the gravel. Cover the block with stucco or brick, for example. Nail framing boards around the top edge of the foundation to support a solid concrete floor base. Construct framework for pouring the concrete floor using perimeter boards that are 2 inches by 6 inches deep or deeper.
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3
Build the roofing framework. Install the roofing framework supported by premade posts from a home improvement store. Be sure to bolt the header beam of the roof framework to house framing. Install porch roof rafters on 16-inch centers. Allow generous overhangs to support guttering.
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4
Install ½-inch plywood over roof rafters. Use metal flashing along the top seam next to the house façade to keep rain out over the years. Enclose the overhangs and soffit areas with plywood as well. Be sure to install vents in the soffit areas to allow the roof to breathe, since its interior will likely heat up in warmer months.
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5
Nail on asphalt shingles to match house shingles or use metal roofing if the home has a steel roof. Add cedar shakes on the porch roof as an accent material, as one choice, if this looks appropriate with the house exterior siding or brickwork.
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6
Install guttering, downspouts and splash blocks. Use materials that blend perfectly with the house overhangs, so the porch does not stand out as an added structure.
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7
Paint the porch posts and overhangs to match the house. Use semigloss paint that includes primer in the mix. Another option is to use porch and deck paint. Install railings last, and paint them to match the rest of the wooden components of the porch area.
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