The front porch can protect the door and visitors from rain, wind, sun, etc.
It can be modern, classic, designer, to suit a contemporary house, with a wooden frame...
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Install an awning
The porch, as an exterior entrance to the house, is characterized by a shelter above the door, in the form of a facade projection or a recess.
Adding an awning over the front door is a clever way to infuse character into your home, whilst providing protection from the elements and creating shade.
Designed specifically to protect the front door of the house, the door awning is available in different models: flat roof, curved, transparent or opaque.
The choice of design is consistent with the facade of your house, according to your tastes and your protection needs.
You will find awnings with a metal, wooden or canvas cover.
In fact, the awning can have a contemporary look with a metal or glass structure as well as a more classic style with a wooden frame covered with tiles.
Your awning can then become an essential architectural element which integrates perfectly with the style of the facade and which acts as protection for the house.
Choosing a marquee
The terms "awning" and "canopy" are frequently used interchangeably, as they both protect the front door.
But you should know that the canopy is a special type of awning.
It is distinguished by a wrought iron, metal or wooden frame, often fan-shaped and glazed.
It is systematically positioned above a front door and gives a lot of character to your home with its vintage and traditional style.
Before choosing between an entrance door awning and a canopy, it is essential to take into account the environmental constraints, the technical characteristics, and the dimensions of the entrance door.
Build a carport
Originally designed to protect cars like an outdoor garage, the carport is an open shelter made of posts supporting a roof.
Generally made of aluminum, wood or polycarbonate, it can be attached to your house depending on the configuration of your building and your outdoor space.
In this case, a carport has several advantages:
- Provide protection for your car while creating a sheltered space in front of your entrance.
- Protect arrivals from bad weather such as sun, rain or snow.
- Create a pleasant and safe reception area.
If you choose this alternative to protect your porch, opt for a design that blends harmoniously with the overall architecture of your home.
Good to know
The construction of a carport is subject to the same regulations as any annex added to land.
It requires a prior declaration of work or building permit, depending on the surface area of the future carport.
Create a wooden frame
To elegantly protect your entrance, you can also consider installing an easy-to-assemble wooden frame.
Placed above the porch, a wooden awning creates a warm and rustic atmosphere, adding character to your facade.
Lightweight wooden constructions, not exceeding 5 m², can be installed without a building permit, offering a practical and aesthetic solution.
Whether you choose a wooden awning with one, two or three slopes, each option offers a harmonious mini-roof, beautifying and protecting the entrance doors.
Please note: choose treated wood joists and beams, specially designed for outdoor use and great durability.
Opt for a pergola
Adding a pergola above the front porch is an alternative to securing your porch.
Often used as a terrace shelter, pergolas can be open, attached to the house, free-standing or closed (like a veranda) to create an effective airlock between the interior and exterior of your home.
However, an enclosed porch, while weatherproof, can be expensive to construct and can reduce the natural light in your entryway.
In terms of materials, you will find different types of structures:
Wooden pergola
Iron pergola or wrought iron pergola
Canvas pergola
Aluminum pergola, etc.
If you opt for an insulated pergola of less than 5m², no prior declaration of works (DP) is required, except in a protected area where it remains obligatory for any surface.
Whether you prefer a classic, modern, or rustic style, there are many ways to design your front porch to create a memorable first impression.
Don't hesitate to add a decorative touch to your porch, with a rug, plants and outdoor lights that make your arrival safer.