Open Porch vs Enclosed Porch: Which is Best for You?
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If you’re looking to install a porch, there are two main structural options: an open porch or an enclosed porch.
The choice between the two is not only a design decision, but could impact on the cost of the porch, its useability, and the value added to your home.
In this guide, we compare open and enclosed porches to help you make the right decision for your home.
Open Porch
An open porch features an overhead canopy with two or four pillars and an open front and sides.
Advantages of an Open Porch
There are many advantages to an open porch on your home, including:
Cost-Effective
Considered more cost-effective, open porches are more affordable to construct than enclosed porches as less material is required to build the structure.
Uninterrupted Views
The lack of walls means open porches provide complete visibility, increasing views and maximising availability of natural light around the property.
Easy to Clean and Maintain
One benefit of a simpler structure is that it's quick and easy to clean and maintain. With less material to look after, open porches can be simply swept out to keep the cobwebs away.
Natural airflow through the porch additionally ensures the freshness of the structure.
Suitable for Smaller Property Fronts
Open porches can maximise how spacious your home and driveway feel by making the structure as unobtrusive as possible, keeping the area open to create the illusion of more space.
Quicker Construction
An open porch is generally quicker and easier to install on a property compared to an enclosed porch.
Disadvantages of an Open Porch
However, there are some disadvantages of an open porch to consider.
Limited Weather Protection
Open porches provide limited protection from the wind and rain. While there is an overhead canopy, the lack of walled sides means rain and wind is driven through the structure.
Dwarf walls can be included in the design of open porches, which can buffer the wind and rain slightly.
Reduced Privacy
Compared to enclosed porches, open porches don’t offer any privacy. This may be a concern for homeowners who want to store items in the porch or to have packages safely delivered while there isn’t anyone home.
Enclosed Porch
As the name suggests, an enclosed porch is walled in on at least three sides, often featuring glazing.
Advantages of an Enclosed Porch
If you’re leaning towards an enclosed porch, there are several advantages to enjoy.
Extra Storage
Offering protection from the weather, enclosed porches can safely and conveniently store your shoes, umbrellas, coats and more.
They also provide a safe place for deliveries to be left.
Energy Efficiency
Whether heated or not, enclosed porches provide an insulating barrier between your home and outdoors. Providing suitable materials have been used and the porch has been well constructed, you can increase the energy efficiency of your home.
Adds Value
The value an enclosed porch could add to your home is potentially higher than an open porch. This is due to the increased floorspace it provides, as well as the increased cost of an enclosed porch to build and install.
Year-Round Useability
It can be argued that enclosed porches provide more benefits year-round than open porches. Offering greater protection from adverse weather for storage, parcels and more, enclosed porches provide a dry space against the UK weather.
Disadvantages of an Enclosed Porch
Whilst there are many advantages of an enclosed porch, there are also some disadvantages to bear in mind.
Higher Cost to Build
Due to the slightly more complex design and increased material use of an enclosed porch, they typically cost more to construct.
The use of glazing within an enclosed porch design will also contribute to the rise in cost.
Key Factors to Consider when Building an Oak Porch
Make sure to be aware of these wider elements before beginning the process of adding a porch to your home.
We offer an in-depth guide to preparing for a porch, discussing key considerations such as:
- Local planning regulations and requirements.
- Design options and styles.
- Purpose.
- Budget.
Working with a professional can help you determine the right type of porch for your home, based on aesthetics, use, and budget. Whether you opt for an open porch or enclosed porch, you’ll be sure to enjoy the many benefits they bring.
At Enville Oak, our bespoke service allows us to create a porch tailored specifically to your requirements. Whether you prefer an enclosed porch, an open porch, or a different style, we can accommodate your preferences. We offer pre-packaged options in your exact size and specifications, so your tradesman can install them, or our on-site team can handle the fitting for you. To find out more about our oak framed porches service, and inspiration, click here.
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