“Residential porches are an in-between place”, explains Gregory Thomas, a senior project architect with CG&S Design-Build in Austin, Texas. In his article in the September issue of Qualified Remodeler magazine, he explains that these structures “reside at the transition between the protection of the indoors and full exposure of the outdoors. Neither fully interior nor exterior, porches can subtly blur the line between indoors and out”. Screened or unscreened porches provide a welcome retreat to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends.

He goes on to say that “as structures, screened porches can be challenging to design and build because they are subject to the elements and weathering forces of nature, yet they often are expected to have a fine and enduring finish and desirable amenities much like an interior space. Porches should provide shelter from the heat of the summer sun, biting insects and chilling winter winds, but they also must welcome the warmth of the winter sun and cooling breezed in summer. With careful consideration of location, orientation, appropriate architectural form and details of construction, screened porches can provide just the right amount of shelter to allow one to relax and enjoy the sensory aspects of the outdoors.”

This project involved an existing front porch in Loudoun County Virginia.  The existing trim and some of the structural members were rotting.  We replaced the rotting structural members and also replaced the railing and trim with low maintenance materials.  After pointing up the walkway the project looked brand new.