How do you value the curb-appeal an inviting front porch brings to a property? The calculation may seem difficult, until your neighbors update theirs and you are left with porch envy. Whether you have a historic Tudor, classic Victorian, modern farmhouse, or colonial home, your front porch is the welcome mat that greets visitors. And don’t forget about the back deck! You can create your own private backyard retreat and the perfect spot for barbecue’s and family entertaining with the addition of a deck. Or get the best of both worlds with a three-season sunporch to help you connect with the outside while protecting yourself from insects and weather. As with any home improvement project, make the most of your budget, and understand the expected ROI.

What to Expect on Your Return

Outdoor entertaining spaces add more than just curb appeal, they offer a good return on your investment. Let’s examine the major options as well as the variables that affect a porch or deck project, and the expected ROI. The 2017 Cost vs Value Report from Remodeling Magazine estimates that homeowners can expect a healthy return. Below is a breakdown for the Chicagoland area:

 

Options and Variables to Increase Your ROI

The two major variables that affect the cost of a deck or porch project are material and size. Homeowners considering a new space have a good deal of control over both. For example, adding on a massive backyard deck the length of the house in AZEK decking might not fit your budget. Consider reducing the size and altering the shape to maximize usable square footage when using a composite decking material. MATERIAL OPTIONS: 

•   Cedar wood - lower cost •   Composite decking - lower maintenance •   Concrete/Pavers - long lasting

OTHER BUDGET-DRIVING OPTIONS:

•   Stairs •   Skirting •   Seating •   Railing Materials •   Unique shape •   Architectural details •   Covering, such as a pergola •   Lighting

Just as with any other “room” in your house, keeping the most-costly elements (i.e. decking material) relatively neutral will help future buyers see value in your deck. Add your own personality, and color, with furniture and landscaping. An inviting porch swing is the perfect final touch to a newly poured or paved front porch.

 

Deck or Porch Addition – Which Suits You Best?

If you are looking to expand your outdoor living space and increase the value of your home, adding a porch or a deck are both great options. However, one may fit your needs better than the other. Below we’ve broken down some of the key advantages (and drawbacks) for each. roi of a deck addition BENEFITS OF A DECK ADDITION:

+  Increases home value with higher ROI rates

+  Versatile material options

+  Can be built on uneven surfaces

+  Large space for entertaining

DRAWBACKS OF A DECK ADDITION:

-  Higher maintenance

-  Need backyard space to build out

  roi of a porch addition BENEFITS OF A PORCH ADDITION:

+  Shorter timeframe to build

+  Boost’s to curb appeal

+  Lower-maintenance

+  Can be covered to protect from inclement weather

DRAWBACKS OF A PORCH ADDITION:

-  Limited space

-  Lower return on investment

  Whether you are interested in a deck or porch addition (or remodeling your existing), we’d love to help you get started! Contact us today, for a free consultation.  

Click here to download the full ROI of a Deck Addition Infographic.