Porch, Veranda, Portico: What's the Difference?

Now that winter seems to be behind us (hopefully, anyway!), it’s time to look forward to spring! For many of us, spring means decluttering our home’s interior and sprucing up its exterior.  Maybe you’re thinking of planting a garden or tackling a home improvement project that will add that perfect finishing touch to your home.  Have you ever thought of adding a covering to your entryway, such as a porch, veranda, or portico? Do you know the differences between them? Read on below for a brief explanation of each and how they can bring a little something extra to the outside of your home.

A porch usually runs across the front of a house

Porch

A porch is an extension to the exterior of a house or building. It runs across the entire front of the structure and usually has a roof and may be enclosed with walls, columns, or screens.  Porches can be a small area where visitors wait prior to entering the house or the homeowners dispose of weather gear, or large, full-sized rooms (think sunporch) used for entertaining guests or just relaxing.

A veranda runs across the front and sides of a house or building
Photo: YourDictionary.com

Veranda

Most of us refer to any outside extension on a house as a “porch”, but there are actually subtle differences between a porch and its close counterpart, the veranda (or “verandah”).  A porch only runs across the front of a house or building; a verandah runs along the front and sides. It typically has a roof, as well.

A portico covers a home or building's entryway

Portico

A portico is a small porch extending from a home or building’s entryway. It usually has a roof and is supported by columns.

Besides making an attractive addition to your home, these exterior structures can add some much-needed protection from the elements.  No matter what type of exterior structure you add or renovate, you want to be sure to get the necessary building permits required by your borough or township. You should also notify your insurance agent about the project so your insurance premiums can be adjusted accordingly or you can purchase new insurance. Here at ETA Benefits Group, we work with several carriers and can shop around to find the best coverage for your needs. 

Do you have a large-scale home improvement project planned for the spring? We'd love to hear about it in the comments below!