A portico is a roof that goes above your front door entry, which may increase curb appeal
If you’re worried your home’s facade is looking a little drab, adding a portico can give it the facelift it needs. A portico provides you that luxe feeling of walking through a grand entryway without breaking the bank, and (bonus!) protects your front door from harsh weather, keeps you dry when you’re fumbling for your keys in the rain, and can even add curb appeal.
What Is a Portico?
A portico is a little roof that goes above your front door and is supported by columns. They date back to ancient Greece, when columns were a staple of architecture and found anywhere and everywhere. This included the front door, as it’s the first thing that people will walk through to enter your home. In a sense, porticos have increased curb appeal since the 4th century B.C.E.!
What Are Porticos Made of?
There are two main portions to the portico: the roof, which goes over the door and patio, and the columns to give support.
The roofing materials are up to you. You can choose asphalt shingles, metal shingles, clay shingles, concrete shingles—you have the pick of the lot with your portico. The goal of the portico is to help increase your curb appeal, so pairing it with your current roofing material is a good idea.
As for the columns, you can choose fiberglass, wood, or concrete. They’re all relatively versatile in the way you can style them. If pests are common in your area, aim for a non-wood option. This way, your home gets an upgrade and you ensure that you don’t have any new tenants living rent-free in your columns.
What Are the Benefits of Porticos?
When it comes to porticos, the main perk is the added curb appeal. You’re likely to get an immediate return on investment thanks to its addition.
Porticos also protect the front door and stoop from the sun, rain, and snow. This can help prevent natural wear and tear that occurs over the years, and keep your front door’s paint from peeling off.
Are There Any Cons to Porticos?
Porticos do take up space, which you may find you’re already limited on. While they can give you the protection you’re looking for, you might find your home’s entrance is more cramped than before.
The portico is also front-and-center of your home, so going with a style that doesn’t fit the rest of your house may actually decrease your property value. This is something you’ll need to discuss with the local building contractor you hire so you can determine what will look best for your home.
How Much Does It Cost to Build a Portico?
On average, you’re looking at paying around $2,500 to $4,000 for a 40-square-foot portico. The cost fluctuates based on the material you use for the roof and columns.
And don’t just stop at the portico—take the opportunity to spruce up your entrance in other ways, too.Some changes you can make yourself include installing a new type of front door, or giving it a new coat of paint.
Portico FAQs
How do you maintain a portico?
Spoiler alert: taking care of a portico is pretty low maintenance! The most important aspect is to make sure your portico roof has proper drainage—you don’t want the water to seep into the wood and cause wood rot. To clean the columns, simply use a wet cloth to remove dirt and scuff marks.
How long do porticos last?
The portico roof will last anywhere from 25 to 60 years, depending on the material used.
As for the columns, so long as you maintain them and seal them regularly, they’ll last just as long as the roof. Sealing should occur every one to three years, depending on how harsh the weather is in your area. Places including Arizona and Montana will find they need to seal more often than somewhere such as Oregon and Colorado, where temperatures tend to be a little more moderate.
What are other ways to increase my home’s curb appeal?
Outdoor lighting is a way to boost your home’s curb appeal. They offer a sense of security when they let you know when something is moving outside.
You can install a new front door as well. Choosing a door that compliments the ornate features of a portico will add the eye-catching factor that many are looking for when it comes to curb appeal.
