How to Convert & Renovate a Porch

Design a pleasing exterior conversion. Plan to install siding to match your home's siding, or plan to use energy-efficient glass. Create the room you would really like to have, but cut back to fit the real budget by making smart substitutions.

Repair the roof and foundation before starting the conversion. Make sure the roof flashing is intact and all shingles are sound, for example. Check the foundation of the porch to make sure there are no cracks.

Figure out how to route any needed electrical wiring or plumbing to the space. Look for ways to add a sink or half bath, if you will build a four-season porch. Decide how to route duct work to heat and cool the space from the home's heating system. Ask a heat pump expert to figure out if the old heat pump will carry the new load before running any duct work or installing vents.

Nail up framing materials to enclose the structure. Add 2-by-4-inch studs around the porch space, leaving room for all windows and doors. Install house siding over appropriate areas and add new energy-efficient windows to the space.

Staple insulation in attic and wall areas to help make the room cozy and energy efficient. Place insulation under porch areas between floor joists, if these areas are reachable by crawling underneath.

Finish up walls and paint. Nail up drywall in the porch interior space. Paint with satin-finish paint and finish wood trim with semi-gloss. Use white, cream or light taupe to give the room a bright ambiance.

Use a floor covering, such as tile or carpet, but don't overlook using area rugs over painted concrete as an affordable option.