Building a porch is a wonderful way to add charm and value to your house. A porch enhances the beauty of the house and gives a relaxing feeling. If you are planning to add a porch to your house, you are in the right place. We’ll help you plan accordingly.
This guide will tell you the average cost to build a porch. Identity costs according to multiple sizes. Also, understand various types of porches to choose the perfect for you. Choose a porch type, plan a budget, and you are ready to enhance your home’s beauty.
Average Cost to Build a Porch
The average cost to build a porch can vary somewhere between $2,000 to $20,000. But it totally depends on the type of porch. Building a front or back porch costs $40 to $120 per square foot. A wraparound or farmer’s porch costs $60 to $150 per square foot to install.
However, the cost of building a porch will depend upon the materials used, the size of the porch, and additional features (railings, lighting, or ceiling fans).
Here’s a rough estimate based on average costs:
- Small porch (100-200 square feet): $2,000 – $5,000
- Medium porch (200-300 square feet): $5,000 – $10,000
- Large porch (300+ square feet): $10,000+
Cost to Build a Porch By Size
Size is the main factor that affects the cost of building a porch in your home. Here is the cost breakdown for you to understand better.
Dimensions |
Size Sq Ft |
Average Cost |
| 10’x8′ | 80 | $3,200 – $12,000 |
| 10’x10′ | 100 | $4,000 – $15,000 |
| 12’x12′ | 144 | $5,750 – $21,600 |
| 20’x10′ | 200 | $8,000 – $30,000 |
| 25’x10′ | 250 | $10,000 – $37,500 |
| 20’x15′ | 300 | $12,000 – $45,000 |
| 40’x10′ | 400 | $16,000 – $60,000 |
| 50’x10′ | 500 | $20,000 – $75,000 |
| 60’x10′ | 600 | $24,000 – $90,000 |
Different Types of Porches
Different types of porches are built in homes to enhance beauty. Some of the famous types are the following:
- Front porch
- Back porch
- Screened-in porch
- Enclosed porch
- Wrap-around porch
- Farmer’s porch
- Portico
- Prefabricated porch (DIY)
Front porch
A front porch is located at the entrance of the house. It’s a welcoming space where you can greet guests and enjoy the view of your yard. It prevents the house from rainwater damage. It keeps the front area of the house cool in summer.
Back porch
The back porch is found at the rear of the house, providing a private area for family gatherings and relaxation. It’s a great spot for barbecues and enjoying the sunset.
Screened-in porch
This type of porch has screens instead of walls. It helps keeping out bugs while allowing fresh air in.
Enclosed porch
An enclosed porch is a fully finished space with walls and windows. It includes polycarbonate or glass windows. It can be used as a separate space for extra activities.
Wrap-around porch
A wrap-around porch extends around the sides of the house. It offers plenty of space for seating and movement. It is ideal for hot climates for deflecting hot rays away from the house.
Farmer’s porch
A farmer’s porch is a wide, covered porch that typically features a railing and plenty of seating. This porch has two entrances open with railing along the sides. It often has a rustic charm. It is ideal for enjoying long summer evenings.
Portico
A portico is a smaller, covered entrance that features columns. It provides shelter to the front house from the rain and sun.
Prefabricated porch (DIY)
It allows homeowners to create their porches without much construction work. These kits arrive in preassembled sections consisting of the flooring, railing, roof, and steps. They are easy to install and maintain.
Type |
Cost Per Sq Ft |
| Front porch | $40 – $120 |
| Back porch | $40 – $120 |
| Screened-in porch | $50 – $175 |
| Enclosed porch | $80 – $400 |
| Wrap-around porch | $60 – $150 |
| Farmer’s porch | $60 – $150 |
| Portico | $100 – $185 |
| Prefabricated porch (DIY) | $25 – $50 |
Cost Breakdown
Factor |
Average Cost Per Sq Ft |
| Foundation | $5 – $30 |
| Flooring | $4 – $15 |
| Gable roof | $70 – $155 |
| Flat roof | $20 – $60 |
| Railing | $20 – $60 |
| Skirting | $25 – $30 |
| Screens | $10 – $25 |
| Steps (Set of 5 – 10 steps) | $500 – $5,000 per set |
| Painting | $2 – $5 |
| Electrical outlet | $180 – $350 per outlet |
| Lighting | $80 – $300 per fixture |
| Ceiling fan | $300 – $1,500 per fan |
| Permits | $150 – $500 |
Labor Cost
To build a porch in your house, you have to hire various professionals. Every worker charges fees according to their work.
- A carpenter charges $30 to $100 per hour for custom woodwork.
- A general contractor charges $50 to $150 per hour to install basic kits.
- A roofer charges $30 to $100 per hour for framing, roof finishing, and sealing.
- An architect costs $100 to $250 per hour to design building plans.
Conclusion
Building a porch is a wonderful way to add charm and value to your house. But the first thing to consider is the budget. The average cost to build a porch can vary somewhere between $2,000 to $20,000. But it totally depends on the type of porch, materials, or additional features.
It is always recommended to consult multiple contractors to get a more accurate budget. You can also install a DIY porch if you do not want much construction work in your house.
