How to Build a Porch in 6 Easy Steps

Since we purchased our home, I have dreamt of sitting on the back porch, drinking coffee in the mornings and grilling in the evenings. I received several quotes for the job which were out of my budget. While I am no professional, I consider myself handy and capable with an assortment of tools. I did some research and got to work and chose to document my progress to share with others who may benefit from my experience.

Hammer

Drill

Drill bits

Saws

Post-hole diggers

Level

Dumpster

Screws

Nails

Lag Bolts

Concrete

Lumber

When building a porch, you'll want to determine the size and gather all necessary supplies prior to starting. The project will go much smoother with at least 2 people.

Tear away any existing structures and clear all debris from your building site.

Measure placement for foundational piers and ensure your foundation is square.

Dig holes 18-24 inches deep and fill with concrete.

Attach a mounting bracket to the top of the concrete pillars.

Stand posts vertically and mount to brackets. Use a level to ensure posts are straight.

Mount Ledger board to existing structure with lag bolts to ensure stability.

Mount beams to the outside of posts and the ledger board on both sides.

Mount joists between the ledger board and beams.

Attach bridging for additional support between joists.

Run decking perpendicular across the top of the joists tightly with little to no gaps.