Porches

Whether the idea is to add a porch to an existing property, or buy a house that already boasts a porch, there are plenty of reasons why a porch can play a part in making any home the perfect property!   Here we offer seven sensible suggestions as to why a porch is a positive attribute:

1. In terms of property improvement, a porch is one of the few additions to a property that does not require planning permission in the UK, as long as the design and location meets certain restrictions, which are in fact very reasonable and sensible limitations which anyone looking to add a porch should investigate just to be sure.  However, most homeowners will find that their desired porch falls well within the limitations and that the erection of a porch should pose no structural, legal or environmental problems.
2. Where there is an increased need for home security, a porch offers the potential for additional security measures, such as lighting or an additional, locking door.
3. Similarly, a porch can also offer a more secure spot for the leaving of parcels or home delivery items as these can often be stowed out of sight in a porch, which cannot be said for items left on a doorstep!
4. Where the inner hallway of the house is small and restricted, a porch can provide additional space for storage of regularly used items, such as outdoor shoes, freeing up space in the hallway inside.
5. Where there is some level of security from passers-by, a porch can also be a great place to leave must-have items when leaving the house.  For example, dog treats and poo bags are never forgotten if they are the last thing seen as the front door is locked when off for walkies!
6. A porch may also offer extra in terms of a welcome to visitors.   It provides shelter from poor weather whilst waiting for the door to be opened and, with just a few simple touches, such as flowerpots and plants, can offer a calming, scented spot in which to spend a while on those longer goodbyes, too!
7. Of course, all of the points so far have related to the front of the house, but don’t forget that porches can also be erected at the backdoor.   With the added security that comes from being out the back (unlike the semi-public domain of the front) literally anything goes with keeping items in the porch.   A backdoor porch is the ideal spot for hanging wet coats or keeping muddy wellingtons, so that the damp and mud from the garden does not encroach on the rest of the house.

Of course, all good reasons will be relative to the size and type of the property but the chances are that a good porch will not only enhance daily life and routines, but also add to the value of the property too!