If you’re interested in adding a porch to your home, you’ll likely have some questions. Here are the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions from our customers below.

How long does it take to build a porch?

For a typical-sized porch, you can expect the build to take around 1 week. The average porch is under 3 metres squared in size as this generally avoids needing planning permission, whilst still creating handy storage space.

To complete your porch in one week, you would expect a team of around 2-3 contractors to be working on your build. This would also be for a classic brick and mortar porch, rather than alternative materials such as aluminium. Check our guide to choosing the right porch for more information on porch types and styles. If you are planning a large porch – for example, one covering a 9m² area – you could expect build time to double to around 2 weeks.

Can I install a porch on my existing base?

Yes, we are able to install new porches on existing bases. We will, however, need to make sure that the existing base is still in good condition before starting any work. Provided everything is in good shape, we will be able to revamp your old porch with new walls, glazing, roof, doors, and more.

What’s the best time of year to install a porch?

Porch installations can happen at any time of year but in the UK, spring and summer are the best seasons for building. Bad weather, whether that’s snow, heavy rain, or high winds, can cause difficulties and slow down construction. Although we can’t guarantee the weather, projects in spring and summer have a much better chance of smooth, uninterrupted work. What’s more, you’ll likely want to benefit from your new porch in autumn and winter so wet coats and muddy shoes aren’t tracked through the house!

Can you build a porch yourself?

You can build a porch yourself, but it’s best left to the experts! There are many different materials and construction techniques that go into building a porch so unless you have all the necessary construction experience, it’s best not to try and DIY. Not only could you be left with a poorly finished porch, but it could also cost more money to correct any issues or start again.

For any basic porch structure, there are several stages of construction. These include:

• Building the foundations: it is important foundations are dug deep enough and any complications, such as pipework or roots, are handled properly
• Lay a damp proof course: laying a damp proof membrane is vital for preventing damp in your porch
• Install the subfloor: a concrete subfloor is laid on top of the damp proof membrane
• Begin bricklaying: with the groundwork prepared, bricklaying can commence, building up to the DPC level
• Install flooring: flooring can now be laid and should be covered with flooring protection for the rest of the build
• Continue bricklaying: bricklaying continues up to the height of any windows when a sill is installed. Bricklaying continues around the window gap with a lintel installed above the window and bricklaying continues to the roof timber
• Roof construction: this comprises of installing a timber framework, a breathable roof membrane, roof battens, roof tiles, and guttering
• Windows, door, and more: finally, the windows, glazing, and door can be installed and any internal plastering and decorating will be completed

Emerald Home Improvements has a team of experienced professionals who can help you with a porch project from planning to completion. With a wide variety of styles available, we can build a porch that complements your home. Serving the Midlands and Northern Ireland, simply contact our team today to discuss your project.