How can I add a porch or sunroom to my house
![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/33e045c20ca58997e8c82e77f0ded7cf?s=52&d=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.greenbuildingadvisor.com%2Fapp%2Favatars%2F200x200%2Fd.png&r=g)
My 2 story older home on the beach is a basement walkout on the ground floor. We live in a rainy climate so it would be nice to have a covered space on the beach side of the house. I scrounged 5 large double pane windows from a remodel site (bottom pane on each can be cranked open). Originally I had planned a second-story deck with some fiberglass roofing panels attached underneath, to create a covered patio area on the ground level. But, after acquiring the 5 big windows I’m thinking the space under the new deck could be a porch instead. I’m looking for a book, a video, or some online resources to guide me through this process. I don’t want to end up with a space that is full of rats, mold, toxic fumes from exterior wall of house, or a trap for moisture that will enter the house and cause problems. Any advice welcome.
GBA Detail Library
A collection of one thousand construction details organized by climate and house part
![](https://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com/app/themes/greenbuildingadvisor/dist/img/modules/detail-library/thumb1.png)
![](https://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com/app/themes/greenbuildingadvisor/dist/img/modules/detail-library/thumb2.png)
Replies
Daniel,
It sounds as if you want to build a porch. You'll need to learn about foundations, framing, roofing, and flashing. If you've never done such work before, you'll probably need to find a contractor who's willing to work with you and provide some training.