Most folks want to know the average square footage cost of a new front porch as part of the planning process.
It can vary from state to state and from region to region.
There are many different variables but it does help to get an approximate idea as to what your investment will be.
Here's data I've compiled for 2018; however, your actual costs will depend on several factors discussed below.
Latest figures indicate a 16 x 20 foot porch will have an average cost of approximately $60-$65 per square foot or approximately $20,800.
It is also worthy to note the expected resale value of that porch may be about 70-85 percent depending on your geographical area.
Considering the resale value of other home improvements, building a porch may be well worth it by creating curb appeal,
adding additional outdoor living space, and your return on investment.
We highly recommend contacting at least three local reputable porch building contractors to obtain estimates.
Porch Construction Cost Considerations
Tradesperson Costs
Generally, a contractor provides all the necessary trades required to build your porch and their costs are included in the overall estimate.
However, if you were to hire them yourself, approximate average costs are listed below.
Electricians
Electricians usually cost $65 to $85 per hour(source: homeadvisor.com); however, you may be able to use an apprentice electrician (who should be qualified to do typical
porch electrical work) that will charges less.
Carpenters
General carpenters charge between $40-80 per hour (source: homeimprovementpages.com) whereas trim carpenters will cost more.
Painters
Painters usually charge from $25-$100 (source: angieslist.com) per hour depending on the size of the job, paint selected, etc.
General Construction Material Costs
New porch under construction - The Porch Company
Although every facet of your porch is important, we recommend you pay particular attention to the roof and foundation construction.
These are critical elements and if done improperly, can cost you considerable money down the road.
Foundation Work
Concrete: Concrete is required for footings, the depth of which is dictated by your geographical area. Generally speaking, concrete costs approximately $90 per cubic yard (source: familyhandyman.com) and can vary
greatly due to geographical area. This does not include delivery charges. A 16 x 20 foot porch may require 6 to 9 footings which is equal to 2 cubic yards (depending on depth
and type of footing).
Beams, Joists, Decking: Generally speaking, your porch foundation and flooring are similar to that of a deck. Average cost of a 16 x 20 foot pressure-treated
deck is approximately $11,000. This of course, depends greatly on your flooring materials, i.e, treated, composite, hardwood, exotic woods, etc.
Roof
The project will require joists and beams, porch columns, as well as plywood 4. asphalt, and under-layment
We show relative costs as it is totally dependent on the type of roof being installed, i.e, stick built; trusses, gable, hip, etc.
Shingles: Approximately $8-100 per square.
Columns: 14' 6x6s approximately $33.00 each
Under-layment: $200-$300
Sheathing: 4x8 foot is approximately $13.00 each
2x4s:8 foot $3.70 each
2x10s: 8 foot 12.00 each
Ceiling
You have several options ranging from bead board panels to vinyl and exotic woods. 4x8 foot bead board panels cost approximately $23.00 each.
Balustrade (if required)
Pressure treated square balusters run about $1.00 each while metal can cost considerably more. You'll also need both top and bottom rails.
Steps
Dependent on how many and how wide the steps will be.
In addition, you will need at least a 4x4 foot landing (usually concrete, brick, etc.)
Electrical Fixtures
These include your outlets, fans, lights, etc., and should be priced locally.
Other Costs to Consider
You may have to remove and discard an existing porch or deck, update or add to electrical systems (add circuit to your electrical panel), transportation costs, etc.
Custom porches, screen porches or 3 season porches will obviously have other costs associated with it to include more labor costs.
Here's a great website that lists the average
costs of many home additions, remodels, and replacements.
If you are actively wanting to hire a contractor to assist you, then
visit here to help you find a local professional.
Take time to consider the costs before you get started
You can get a fairly good square footage cost estimate for your porch before you begin your project.
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All content here is solely for presenting ideas.
We recommend consulting with a licensed, experienced contractor before you begin your project.
We make no guarantees of accuracy or completeness of information on our site or any links to other websites contained here.
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At no extra cost to you, we earn a commission by referring you to some products on merchant sites. See our disclosure policy. We, Front Porch Ideas and More, confirm, as stated on our privacy policy, that we do not sell personal information.
All content here is solely for presenting ideas. We recommend consulting with a licensed, experienced contractor before you begin your project.
We make no guarantees of accuracy or completeness of information on our site or any links to other websites contained here.
We will use your email address only to send our newsletter and this helpful ebook on curb appeal!
