Make a Grand Entrance on a Budget:
Porticos Offer Guests Protection and Much More!
Tips for Homeowners from the Experts at Georgia Front Porch
| Q: |
What's the difference between a front porch and a portico? |
| A: |
Front Porches and porticos can dramatically improve the curb appeal of your home. An expansive front porch adds
more livable space for entertaining and relaxation. Porticos are covered entrances for the front door that help accentuate the entry area.
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| Q: |
The weather has wreaked havoc on my woodwork and threshold. Will a portico help? |
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| A: |
Yes! A portico can help provide optimal protection for your guests, front entry and even your foyer. Doors, hardware and trim that are exposed
to the weather eventually succumb to splintering, rotting, fading and more. Sun and rain damage can
create the need to replace interior wood flooring in the entrance, doors and door frames, side lights
and transoms. And, just think how your guests might feel waiting outside during a downpour.
Porticos offer a solution to more living space, especially in modestly sized homes with a limited
lot size. Builders of town homes or cluster style communities are even finding this space necessary to decompress
the feeling of attached living structures, making areas such as this standard to each home.
Covering the entrance can substantially reduce and even eliminate those headaches. It's a convenient
amenity to protect guests on those cold rainy nights as they wait for the door to be answered. And don't forget porticos
make a perfect stage for holiday decorations.
Georgia Front Porch will create several design options in a photo proposal,
that will complement the architecture of your home. A new front porch or Atlanta portico addition from Georgia Front Porch will
help save your entry from costly repair or replacement-while adding real value to your home!
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| Q: |
What's the typical size for a portico? |
| A: |
Porticos can be any size. Some homeowners choose to use their existing stoop footprint to base the roof size.
Others increase the size by replacing or enlarging the existing stoop. The larger the portico the
more protection, and in many cases a much more dramatic look. A popular size is 5 feet by 8 feet
(40 sq ft), but it also depends on factors like number of columns desired.
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| Q: |
How much does a typical portico cost? |
| A: |
Porticos can vary depending on design, materials, lighting features, etc. Your design consultant
will help you choose exactly the right portico for maximum outdoor enjoyment. Prices can range from
$2,800 - $3,900 or more depending on your wishes and budget.
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| Q: |
How long does it take to build a portico addition? |
| A: |
Based on the size of your portico addition, an average project may take
anywhere from one day to 1 week.
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| Q: |
How do I select a portico with the most curb appeal? |
| A: |
The benefit of the portico - which are inspired by the design of community-oriented
neighborhoods -- is the numerous styles to choose from and a variety of ways to customize.
Basic styles are gabled, flat, curved or hip. Important considerations include following lines on
the existing house while complementing the general style of the neighborhood. One preferred portico
is flat with posts and railing above, simulating the elegance of a balcony. We also offer standing seam,
coated metal roofs that can match existing metal details or create a more upscale appearance.
Because construction details can vary (eg: roof styles, lighting,, etc.), we will suggest an optimal design
that will provide maximum curb appeal-from any angle. Every portico is custom designed and tailored
to complement your homes unique architecture. We typically develop a photo proposal for you to
review-ensuring your satisfaction before any work begins.
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| Q: |
What are the latest cutting edge materials? |
| A: |
There have been many advances in construction materials over the years.
These include composite decking and imported hardwood for porch floors, and fiberglass columns,
fascia, and ceiling materials. Most of these can be painted to match trim colors and will not
split, rot, warp, or fall victim to termites. Low maintenance alternatives to wood include
fiberglass, polyurethane, vinyl and wood composites.
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| Q: |
What are some elements that help dress up the look of a portico? |
| A: |
Practical as well as beautiful, porticos can be one or more stories high, and may
be as narrow as a door or as wide as an entire building. Roof material, trim, round vs. square
columns, number of columns, floor material, hand railings, and step dimensions can all dress up
the look of a portico.
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| Q: |
Can I use composite wood on my portico and how much will that cost? |
| A: |
Expect to budget 25 - 30% more for composite materials.
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| Q: |
How do I get started? |
| A: |
Simply call 770-781-8234 and speak to a Georgia Front Porch
expert or, if you have a digital camera, you can upload a photo of your existing front entry by
clicking on http://www.georgiafrontporch.com/RequestQuote.aspx and following the link.
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