front porch masonry

Are you finally ready for that front porch (or to remodel an existing one) and want a rock-solid, traditional look? Front porch masonry and stone elements certainly help add a historic luster to a front porch addition.

Essentially, masonry is defined as any type of stonework put together with mortar. Although, masonry is not just limited to stone such as limestone and cast stone. Brick, tile, granite, marble, concrete, glass block, and adobe are also materials used in masonry for porches, homes, buildings, and more.

Discover our favorite areas for front porch masonry and what makes them so popular.

 

Masonry: A Traditional and Classic Look

Georgia Front Porch has built many handsome front porches over the years. Our expert team offers many ways to incorporate stone, tile, and brick into each project. For example, wrapping wood posts and bases (aka ‘piers’) with stacked stone adds texture and undeniable beauty. Many of our customers wish to update their existing porches with bluestone, limestone, granite, or other types of pavers on steps and flooring. Masonry often lends a charming luster to their home’s exterior. Stone ‘skirting’ (the area between the floor and the ground) adds an extra layer of beauty and visually anchors the house to the ground.

Stone front porches offer a wide range of benefits:

  • Virtually weather-proof
  • Low maintenance
  • Eco-friendly
  • Unique patterns versus repeated patterns of wood or concrete
  • Wide variety of materials to choose from
  • Outstanding curb appeal that adds significant value to your property

You might wish to consider the virtues of a stamped concrete porch with matching steps that use the same color and pattern to unify the design. Or, mimic brick using a stamping or stenciling technique. This gives your porch the appearance of hand-laid brick but often at a lower cost.

Let’s be honest, beautiful masonry never goes out of style. Like any fine wine, it gets better with age. Now is the time to add the front porch masonry addition you’ve always dreamed of (or maybe a simple remodel will do). Increase the value of your home, as well as add a fresh look that will create more space.

 

Georgia Front Porch is Your Premier Source for Front Porch Masonry Design and Installation

As Georgia’s premier front porch builder, we’re happy to meet with you and share the gambit of options that can make your home’s (stone) porch the perfect outdoor living space that adds incredible value and beauty to your home.

Our design team can take a photo of your home and render it to show you a variety of designs and styles that could work best. Learn more about our porch design rendering process and why we are the best.

Do you already have design ideas and your inspirational photos or are you starting from scratch? Whatever the case, Georgia Front Porch is excited to build you a beautiful new addition to your home.

Contact us today to get started on a stunning front porch masonry project that will for sure be a conversation starter.

front porch masonry

covered porches and porticos

Whether you live in your forever home or plan to sell in the near future, creating the best curb appeal is always in your best interest. Covered porches, front and back porticos, carports, and more, all deserve to look unique and show your personal design style. Most importantly, adding a unique touch to these outdoor areas increases the value of your home.

If you’ve been considering upping your game, here are six 2023 exterior design trends that could deliver just what you need. Plus, any one of these projects will be sure to have your neighbors talking.

 

Exterior Home Design Trends

#1 – Dark and Earthy Siding Colors

Want an instant impact? Choose dark and earthy colors for your siding. Think navy blue, forest green, dark brown, or maroon.

#2 – Black & White Color Palettes

Warm whites and painted bricks continue to be popular in 2023. You can even mix lower-cost siding with brick to keep your budget in check. Another option is incorporating various shades of black as accents, versus as the main color. Charcoal, onyx, and ebony are great shades to consider for door and/or window trim, porch banisters, or soffits. Partner these accents with brown or white colors and you have true curb appeal.

#3 – Extra Texture

Imagine integrating visual texture into your home’s façade including architectural shingles or metal roofing, fascia, and, of course, siding. The 2023 trend is bronze and copper for roofs, gutters, and downspouts. Light colors convey textured depth and detail the best. Shake shingles and shiplap are just two examples of instant curb appeal.

#4 – Accent Colors

Another hot trend is staying within the same color family for accent hues. Light grey siding with dark grey trim gives you a smart look as does light brown siding with dark brown trim.

#5 – Color Blocking

If you are a fan of dark colors and want a refresh without a complete makeover, add a few dark elements to your exterior versus committing to a completely dark scheme. If your home is white, add dark colors via stone or brick accents.

 

Georgia Front Porch: Your #1 Source for Covered Porches and More

#6 – A Dramatic Front Entry

Looking for a smart way to combine curb appeal with extra living space? Did you know that 34% of buyers prefer a home with a front porch and 47% consider it a desirable trait? Together, this translates to 81% of homebuyers who would want a front porch. If you have a flat-faced home or just an awning over the front door, it might be time to consider an addition from Georgia Front Porch.

We’ll bring you our expert ideas and options for covered porches, porticos, and more to create another level of enjoyment and resale value for your residence.

Contact the expert team at Georgia Front Porch for a free design consultation. It’s time to create that outdoor space you’ve always wanted. Whether it’s to bring people together or simply create a new area, w can’t wait to get started.

covered porches curb appeal tips

front porch addition ranch curb appeal header

Do you love your ranch home/rancher and are looking for easy ways to revive it? A front porch addition is a great way to enhance the curb appeal and value of your single-level property. Plus, our expert design team at Georgia Front Porch has included other spectacular ideas to ramp up your horizontal space.

If you’ve decided it’s time to freshen up and modernize your ranch home’s appearance, we have offered a few expert ideas. We will also give you information on how to have a front porch addition installed.

 

Your Ranch Home Deserves a Fresh Look

Break up the box.

Ranches tend to look boxy and suffer from monotonous horizontal lines; break them up with landscaping upgrades.

  • Select shorter shrubs (think boxwoods) that won’t cover a ranch’s lower windows.
  • Cut back on the number of shrubs and trees altogether to make your home appear bigger.
  • Plant taller plants like evergreen trees to frame your garage’s entrance.
  • Design a curved walkway starting at the driveway leading to the garage.
  • Put perpendicular stepping stones from the porch to the street.
  • Make sure not to have shutters up that are too narrow for your windows.

 

Add warmth.

Your house may look like a shoebox, but we know it has so much more potential than that.

  • Choose rustic materials such as reclaimed wood for shutters and fencing.
  • French doors are a nice touch to connect the home’s inside with outdoor living spaces like porches and decks.
  • Hang or place lighting around your front doorway to brighten up and add some focus to this area.
  • Essentially, you want to showcase the front door, windows, and shutters through color, light, shapes, and texture. The last thing you want is the front of your house to look hidden.

Paint a fresh coat

Anything looks better with a fresh coat of paint. Choose something different this time and make sure to get high-quality paint.

  • Freshen the outside by painting the brick exterior. Many homes have undergone a virtual transformation by painting red brick white or light gray.
  • Do you love a vintage look? Paint the front door a bright color and replace your house and mailbox numbers with mid-century font options.

A Front Porch Addition for Your Ranch Home

All of the tips above will make your house even more of a home. Although, a front porch addition creates a fantastic adaptable outdoor living space and makes your home more inviting. Already have a front porch? Great. Check out our blog on how to make yours more welcoming.

Looking to have a front porch designed and installed? Georgia Front Porch can help dramatically improve your ranch home’s appearance with its premier front porch and portico installations. Take a look at our many porch projects with before and after photos with an array of different style homes.

As one of Georgia’s premiere front porch builders, our curb appeal experts will design and construct a front porch addition that will have your neighbors swooning!

Get started today with the Atlanta area’s leading front porch contractor, Georgia Front Porch. Contact our team now or request a free quote. You can also call us at 770-781-8234. We can’t wait to get started on your front porch or portico.

front porch addition Ranch Curb Appeal Bottom

Front Porch Entertainment Header

A front porch is a wonderful attribute of a home. When was the last time you took a look and thought about creating a space for front porch entertainment? Have you considered how to maximize your porch enjoyment for yourself or your guests? Here are a few ideas to ensure your home is ready for a front porch party!

 

Front Porch Décor

  1. Set yourself up for success with the perfect front porch entertainment furniture.

Unless your space is extremely limited, position a minimum of two chairs to encourage conversation. Choose chairs that make front porch dining al fresco a breeze. Select tables and chairs composed of solid teak wood that are resilient and naturally weather resistant. Shades of grey are always a great idea. How about a fun porch swing? It is the perfect seating to accommodate a number of guests. Really, who doesn’t love a porch swing?

 

  1. Plant as much green as you can.

Hang planters or place lush plants in pots to create a picture-perfect outdoor setting. Make sure the size of the planters is consistent with the size of the porch. Tall, narrow containers are best for smaller spaces while a big potted plant is ideal for a larger area. Ferns are perfect for achieving a plush, healthy look. Perennials give you longer-lasting foliage than seasonal blooms. If your porch has significant sun exposure, consider planting shade trees nearby to add more protection from Atlanta’s unforgiving summer heat. Are insects common? Put out a few citronella plants.

 

  1. Amp up comfort with a ceiling fan.

Especially if uninvited guests are common such as insects, a ceiling fan is great for air circulation. White is your best bet, but if you prefer to add a splash of color, select fade-resistant fabric.

 

Front Porch Ideas

  1. Illuminate good times!

Not only does well-placed lighting make your front porch safer for guests or package deliverers, but it is also a welcoming element for your home. Plan for three sources of light. To start, string lights along your porch’s edge. A great second addition is to place two scones near your seating area and one above the door. You can also consider recessed spots in the ceiling. Positioning solar lights along your walkway is another way to make your home more inviting and the path to the front door safer.

 

  1. Is your porch ready for success? Let’s plan your next party with other accessories!

Add flameless candles or lanterns for soft lighting when the sun goes down. Have enough chairs for everyone. True, some people will lean against the rail, but they’ll eventually want to sit. Set up various entrée, beverage, and dessert stations to make it easy for people to fill their plates. Have a clean-up station that makes it easy for guests to discard their plates, utensils, and plastic or paper cups or cans. Have fun!

 

Porch Remodel by Georgia Front Porch

With over 15 years of specializing in curb appeal, Georgia Front Porch is Georgia’s premier front porch builder. Let’s get started on creating more living (and entertaining) spaces for your home.

If you’re missing a front porch, but were inspired by this article to add one, please call the best front porch builder in Georgia to request a free design consultation, at 770-781-8234 or CLICK HERE. We’re here to help.

Front Porch Entertainment Footer

adding a front porch header

Did you know that adding a front porch can provide an 84% return on investment, on average? That’s especially true in warmer climates like Atlanta. Statistics show that a porch can dramatically increase your home’s curb appeal and improve its value to buyers.

In fact, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) has completed multiple studies on home buying. Their 2021 study found that 81% of homeowners view front porches as essential or desirable when purchasing a home. Let’s explore why a porch construction should be your next home improvement project.

 

Front Porch Construction (Design Ideas and More)

Aside from the architectural and curb appeal of a front porch addition, there is one other aspect that is just as important. Call it lifestyle, livability, useable space, outdoor living room, outdoor space, or another term. We simply call it a ‘room with a view.’ From a pure social angle, front porches unite people. They help us to engage in trust-building and face-to-face conversations with our neighbors. They give us a sense of security, but they also increase our willingness to engage with others. The front porch is like a handshake, welcoming visitors, serving as a connection point with the neighborhood, and providing an impression for passers-by and neighbors. It’s the calling card of your home.

Front Screened Porch

Keep out flying pests with a screened porch. Every Georgian knows that the humidity brings mosquitos and other uninvited insects. How lovely would it be to have an outdoor space you can drink a cup of coffee in the morning or a glass of iced tea at night without bugs flying around you? Read a book, complete a puzzle, or do anything else you enjoy without gnats and other insects circling you.

Open Area Porch

Do you have young children? How nice would it be when they are playing out in the front yard and you can be close by to watch over them? Invite your neighbors over for an afternoon in the shade while also enjoying being shielded from hot weather. Adding a front porch allows you to create a social center that brings people together. Remember, memories are made on front porches.

Other Benefits of a Front Porch

  • Reduces sun and rain damage on your front door, lighting, and trim; natural element protection
  • Shields out heat, saving money on your summer energy bill
  • A safe, roofed space for packages

 

Adding a Porch to House

Whatever style home you have, you can create a new outdoor living space and add new life to your home exterior. With a wide range of styles and materials available at Georgia Front Porch, your choice of designs to complement your home is nearly infinite.

Are you looking to install a covered porch, one with posts or columns, or do you have other ideas in mind? We can create an intricately detailed modern porch design, or a simple, traditional one.

Discover how well adding a front porch may fit with your home and your future resale. Contact our curb appeal experts at Georgia Front Porch to get started on porch ideas and designs. You can also Click Here for a free, no-hassle new porch design consultation.

adding a front porch footer

creative curb appeal1

Now that spring is in full swing (and summer is almost here!), it’s a great time to enhance your home’s creative curb appeal. Use our handy list as your personal idea guide to tackle the projects that will have the greatest impact on your home and its value.

 

Creative Curb Appeal Ideas

  1. Revitalize your front door.

Give it a new coat of paint, updated hardware, and a spring wreath. If your front entrance or walkway lacks color, consider a rich hue to make it pop.

  1. Give your windows and siding a good washing.

You can use a regular hose with a washing attachment or a power washer if you have extra layers of rime. Don’t forget to clean the inside of the windows.

  1. Enhance your fence, if you have one.

Add plantings to your fence’s street-facing side. Plant spring bulbs and perennials to add a sense of depth, which will make your front yard appear larger.

  1. Be certain your house numbers are readable.

Walk across the street to gain a different perspective and be sure to check them after dark. If they are blocked by trees or other foliage, prune them as needed. Ideally, place the house numbers under a light so they will be illuminated in the evening. This will also come in handy in case of an emergency when locating your house quickly is paramount.

  1. Make sure the front of your house has sufficient lighting.

Determine if your front porch has adequate lighting. If you have a single light, consider flanking your front door with a pair of sconce lights. Have a long pathway leading to your door? Add some landscape lighting to ease night navigation to your home.

  1. Reseed or add sod to your front lawn if it looks patchy.

If you have a flower bed, use natural mulch to give the beds a finished look and help the soil retain its moisture. Your plants deserve the best nutrition.

 

Boost Your Home’s Value

  1. Install a front porch swing, hammock, or a few chairs.

Speaking of front porches, hang a porch swing. It’s a great way to make your home inviting and the perfect place to relax and greet neighbors as they cruise by your house. If a swing is a bit too ambitious for you, add a couple of rocking chairs and you are in business.

  1. Add potted plants to the front.

If you have a front porch, cluster three pots of different sizes and fill them with spring flowers. Do you have the pots, but not the front porch? Our front porch builders will be happy to take care of that for you!

  1. Repair your driveway and front door.

Take a good look at your driveway and garage door. If there are major cracks, they need to be repaired. Is the garage door looking a bit tired? A fresh coat of paint will do the trick.

 

Georgia Front Porch Knows Curb Appeal

Are you truly looking to enhance your home’s creative curb appeal and don’t have a front porch? Visit Georgia Front Porch’s portfolio to view beautiful front porch designs. If your front entrance lacks the space for a front porch, no problem. We design and build custom porticos for all home styles.

Contact Georgia Front Porch today, Atlanta’s premier front porch and portico builders. Do you have a specific project in mind? Get a free quote.

creative curb appeal 2

2022 Porch trends header

Last year, we ran an article about front porch trends, and those great design ideas are still relevant for 2022. A front porch serves the dual purpose of adding more living space to your home while increasing its value when it comes time to sell. Let’s review some of the hottest design trends:

 

Add Natural Textures

Wood trim, copper or bronze gutters, a metal roof over the front porch and other natural elements are trending but also timeless. These add texture and depth to your home’s curb appeal. On a budget? Consider vinyl siding or faux stone!

 

Dual Purpose Furniture

Versatile outdoor furniture is a great way to get the most enjoyment from your front porch. For example, stools that can be used for seating, as end tables, or stackable chairs. Or modular tables that can be pulled apart to accommodate more people or models with hidden compartments for cutlery or drinks give you the ultimate in flexibility.

 

Let Mother Nature Bring the Color

Once spring arrives, plant begonias, ferns, and geraniums to overflow planters and window boxes. Et voila! Your front porch becomes the family’s new favorite place! If you seek a stately and elegant look, choose a pair of tall urns to frame your front door. Save some cash with planters made from composite materials rather than wood. They are easier to maintain and will outlive wood options.

 

Make Comfort a Priority

Your front porch is a functional living space, so why not make it as comfortable as possible? Start with a rug to define your space and if you have a porch swing, add as many pillows as possible to transform it into a swinging sofa! Choose bold colors, for example, periwinkle and orange tied together with a neutral grey, for some cool comfort. Want to get cozy? An egg chair is fun, yet modern, and the perfect combination of comfort and style. Pair it with cozy pillows or a rug, for a more personal feel.

 

Let There Be Light

Sufficient lighting is certainly a must for safety and security. However, don’t settle for floodlights or a front porch sconce. Consider lighting that highlights your home’s features while also creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Strategically position small spotlights around your home. You can even camouflage them so during the day they are virtually invisible and don’t detract from your home’s aesthetic. Path lights are another option and there are innumerable style and power sources (ie: electrical and solar) available.

 

Georgia Front Porch understands the latest trends, but our projects remain timeless. Talk to our curb appeal expert to discover how your home can benefit both in lifestyle and return on investment. Contact us today or a free design consultation.

2022 porch trends footer

To many Atlantans, fall is a welcome relief from our hot, humid summers. It is also an outstanding opportunity to enhance your home’s curb appeal with vibrant colors that celebrate the season!

 

Pumpkin Power

Few things say fall better than pumpkins. Start with a pumpkin tower. Take an empty container and stack pumpkins in cascading sizes. Choose a variety of gourds, colors, and shapes to add variety. Don’t forget to remove the stems for optimal stacking.

Choose a short, squat pumpkin for your base to ensure stability. Create a pumpkin planter by removing their tops and emptying them as if you were going to carve them. Next, insert colorful mums into the pumpkins or fill them with clumps of heather. Don’t be shy about volume because you want the colors to POP!

Bountiful Berries

Cut a few branches of berries and tuck them into your container. Look for berries on shrubs in your garden or purchase artificial or preserved berries you can reuse for many years to come.

Go Posh with Squash

Build a garden tower featuring squashes, pumpkins, and gourds. Go all out on the color variety to make it a tower of power! Plant the base with ivy and fill it with fall leaves for depth.

A Taste of Fall

If your container already has edible elements like bright peppers, cabbage, or kale, use them as a foundation and pile on pumpkins and colorful gourds. You can’t beat the natural beauty.

Spice Things Up with Pomegranates

Pomegranates offer an impressive array of colors from yellow/green to dark red. Cut a few curly willow branches, mix in pomegranates and voila! — you have yourself an easy arrangement.

Raise the Roof with Gourds

Mount decorative gourds on sticks so they stand tall above ornamental grasses, annual flowers, and cabbages that you’ll add to your container. It’s about time gourds stood in the spotlight!

Welcome the Holidays with Magnolia and Birch

Combine cut birch and magnolia branches for an arrangement that says, “Welcome Holiday Season!” The contrast between rich, brown and green magnolia leaves and bright white birch bark is as pretty as it gets. One added benefit is they don’t need watering, so that’s one less thing on your holiday list.
 
This fall, welcome the season with open arms by using containers to spice up your home’s curb appeal. Whether they’re on your front porch, tucked under your portico, or in charming window boxes, displaying fall colors will make your home warmer and more inviting.

enhance curb appeal before selling your home

If your current or future plans include selling your home, curb appeal can have a significant impact on the sale price. In fact, a recent study discovered that attractive curb appeal can increase the value of your home by 7% or more. Here are a few reasons why curb appeal is so important and some ideas to make your home as attractive as possible.

 

Curb Appeal Begins On The Internet

Nearly 90% of home searches begin online. Flattering photos of your home, starting with the exterior, can make all the difference between being a top pick or being overlooked. Many realtors have the professional photos taken for you, but if you choose to do so yourself, take them during the best time of day for lighting and without any extra clutter such as cars, bikes, toys, garden tools, hoses, etc.

It’s What Buyers See First

The first impression of your home goes a long way to establishing value in the buyer’s mind. A well appointed exterior and landscaping will set the tone for a positive tour. If their first impression is negative you may have lost them before they entered the front door.

The Perception of Maintenance Issues

If the grass is uncut or patchy, or the paint is fading on your house, buyers may perceive that your home has more maintenance issues than they want to tackle.

Give Your Home’s Exterior a Competitive Edge

Some prospects will not bother going inside if the curb appeal is lacking. A home with beautiful landscaping can make your property stand out from the competition and help increase the sale price because it enhances the perceived value of your home. Consider brightly colored potted plants on your porch or near the sidewalk. They’re easy to care for and can be changed out seasonally.

Look Up When Boosting Curb Appeal

Improving your landscaping is the obvious first step toward engaging buyers, but also take a close look at your roof. If your roof needs replacement, doing so before it hits the market will help you get a higher price. Buyers factor replacing the roof into their offer which may impact what they are willing to pay. Even if your roof is in good shape, make sure the gutters are clean and debris-free.

Keep Your Home’s Exterior Clean

A good power washing can make all the difference for your home. It is a comparatively small investment that will pay big dividends. You can start by taking care of the little things such as removing weeds from your driveway, which are obvious turnoffs. Even if your driveway looks a little worn, that won’t be a deal breaker if it is clean and weed-free.

Lighten Things Up

Showings take place during the day and at night, so make sure your lighting makes your home as attractive as possible. One cost-effective option is to string low-voltage lighting along your driveway, sidewalks, and near important landscaping elements.

Add Ooomph to Your Entry

If your home has a ‘flat face’ or just needs a fresh facelift, it may be time to consider adding a portico or porch. Either option can translate into a higher selling price for your home down the road.

 

Let’s amplify your entry and create more curb appeal! Email us today!

improved curb appeal with new entrance and portico

front porches trends

Today’s housing market is hot — red hot. It is assuredly a seller’s market. Knowing that homes may be overpriced due to demand, many people are choosing to upgrade their homes. Not only can they enjoy these upgrades now, but they also benefit later when it is time for them to sell.

One of the hottest trends is adding front porches to existing construction. Front porches provide homeowners with more space while offering a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors. Let’s take a look at the trend within the trend — porch designs for 2021.

Style Guidance

As you consider your options, pick a style that’s fresh but complements your residence. The board and batten farmhouse look is very popular right now. Craftsman-style porches have grown in popularity due to their historic look with tapered columns and stone piers. Yet, you don’t have to be married to a single style. There is nothing wrong, and often something very right, about mixing styles. Do you have a front porch but want to freshen it up? You can always add modern accessories to your rustic front porch because, after all, it comes down to personal taste.

Updated Porch Railings

The porch railing has a valid complaint because it is often overlooked when it comes to decorating ideas. Choose something with clean, modern lines that will not fall out of style. There are many options and since Georgia Front Porch specializes in curb appeal, we can help guide you to the perfect railing options for your home.

Wood Is In

Whether it’s columns, siding, front door, fence, soffits, or garage doors, people are finding a place to embrace the wood trend. Not only is wood stunning, it can be painted, stained, or finished any way you desire — plus it’s easy to paint over in the future. Talk about flexibility!

Black and White

Warmer whites like creams, off-whites, and soft gray-whites are growing in popularity for front porches. In the last couple of years, we have also seen an upswing in darker paint! Deep colors such as onyx, urban bronze, or charcoal green are dramatic and eye-catching — even if you’re only using it on stone piers, lighting, or porch furniture.

Metal Roofs

Drive around north metro ATL and you’ll see quite a few front porches with metal roofs. Metal is eye catching and can significantly increase your curb appeal. Plus, it is extremely durable—an excellent trait in a roof. Looking for head-turning glam? Copper is the most attractive of all metal roofing options. Copper roofs are strong (lasting up to 50 years) and energy efficient. They are more expensive than shakes or shingles, but installation is quick and easy.

Comfortable Seating & Decor

Comfortable seating is an important part of any porch. After all, you’ll be spending a lot of quality time out there so why not be super comfortable? Swinging seats are great but if you don’t have a beam to hang it from, consider a freestanding swing chair. Adirondack chairs in bright colors also make for inviting seating. A traditional outdoor bench or rocking chairs are also great options. Be sure to position an outdoor rug to anchor the seating area while also bringing a pattern and additional color to your porch.

Consider making a grand statement by replacing your small, old porch lights with dramatic, oversized lights that make a noticeable difference from the street. Then, consider matching your new lights with other porch elements like outdoor planters.

Buyers Find Front Porches Highly Desirable

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) surveyed homebuyers and reports that front porches were among the TOP preferences for 2021.

Contact us to review your options and let us design and build you a front porch you’ll enjoy for years to come.

front porch trends


Calling all nature lovers! This is the time of year we cherish when birds return from their winter migration to build nests and find their mates.

If you want to attract more visitors, here are some tips to get started.

Clean Out Old Nests

Take a walk around your property and remove old nests. Each year birds build a new home so remove anything that might block their handy new ‘construction’.

Provide Shelter

Speaking of new construction, why make birds do all the work? A few strategically placed bird houses will attract your favorite species.

Provide Material for DIY Birds

Give birds a helping hand with materials they can use to build their nests. Options include feathers, yarn, string, dry moss, and twigs.

Plant Flowers and Trees Birds Will Love

A few plants known to be favorites are Red Buds, Camellia, Fuchsia, Butterfly Weed, and Bachelor’s Buttons. Plant, and they will come! Indulge your feathered friends with a well constructed bird feeder. We especially love ones that feature a hinged roof and suet feeders on the side!

Avoid Pesticides

While you may be tempted to use pesticides to kill destructive insects, remember that they also kill pollinators like honeybees and butterflies. Plus, if you kill all the insects, you provide birds with less food to eat. Choose organic fertilizers which enhance plant growth, deter soil erosion, and leave birds with a healthy food supply.

Prevent Catastrophic Window Strikes

Keep feeders within two or three feet of windows because birds won’t have time to build up speed to crash into your window at a high velocity. Remember, windows reflect the sky which fools birds into thinking they can fly right through, and then, wham!

Keep Cats Indoors

Research proves that roaming housecats and feral cats can kill birds at an alarming rate. After all, it is in their instinct to prey upon birds. If you have an outdoor cat, it is best not to feed birds because they’ll dine in peril. Let’s not make it easy for our feline friends to do their damage.

Provide Clean, Running Water

Help the birds stay hydrated with a bird bath and provide fresh water whenever you can. If you want to step it up a notch, provide a water fountain for their drinking pleasure.

A New Front Porch for Bird Watching

If you want to stay high and dry – away from inclement weather – while you enjoy bird watching from your home, let’s talk. A new front porch not only adds curb appeal, but gives you additional living space AND a great place to watch Indigo Buntings! Get a free design consultation today!

Technically the first day of winter is December 20th. More accurately, winter arrived in the Atlanta area right after Thanksgiving. So, now that reality has set in, it’s time to think about what you can do to enhance your home’s curb appeal. Here are some ideas to make sure your home looks double-take-amazing this winter.

Plant Hardy Annual Flowers

Consider planting shrubs that do well and flower during colder weather. Blue Holly bears lovely red berries, so start there. Another option is Honeywort, a Mediterranean plant that blooms iridescent blue droplets that will give your home a distinctive look.

Add in Evergreens

Tall evergreen shrubs like Arborvitae are ideal for a great year-round look. Add Barberry bushes which come in bright yellow-green and deep chartreuse shades to bring in much needed color.

Change Up Your Front Door Color

Choose paint with a bright hue to contrast with winter’s muted tones. Select a color that no one else on your street has and you’ll surely stand out! Then, deck out your porch or portico with some Christmas décor cheer.

Clean Your Gutters

Use a trowel, gutter scoop, leaf blower, or even a pressure washer to clean out your gutters if they are easily reachable. Don’t be shy hiring a contractor to take care of areas that are too high to comfortably reach. Once you’ve given them a good cleaning, check your gutters for leaks or damage and address them sooner rather than later.

Power Wash Your Exterior

Before things turn frigid, power wash your home to clean up the summer and fall grime. This should last until your next big event — Spring Cleaning.

Add a Welcoming Front Porch

Though winter has just arrived, it’s not too early to think about spring. A new front porch is a wonderful way to add spectacular curb appeal to your home. In many cases, a front porch can be transformative — adding a space to relax while giving your home’s facade a complete makeover.

Got a limited budget? A front portico helps amplify your entry, protect woodwork and visitors, while still adding value to your home.

Does your home feature modern architecture? We’ve got ideas for contemporary porches.

And if you’re thinking spring, a garage arbor is an excellent way to add beautiful curb appeal and a way to soften the look of your garage with an attractive trellis and flowing vines.

Why not take the time now to discuss a wide range of designs that can work specifically for you? We’re ready, willing, able, and extremely experienced! Request a quote today!

Your home’s curb appeal is important for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is your own happiness when you look at it! It’s also an important factor for your neighbors, visitors, and potential buyers in the future. Did you know, 99% of Realtors believe curb appeal is important in attracting a buyer? It makes sense when you consider that most people start the home buying process by looking at photos online!

If you’re feeling like your home could use an upgrade on its curb appeal, consider adding a portico, half porch, or full porch!

infographic about the curb appeal benefits of porticos, half porches, and full front porches

Portico

A portico is a small roof that covers just the front door of your home. They come in many different styles to suit your home’s aesthetic. From the minimalist bracket porticos, to the more ornate upper rail porticos, we can design the best one for you.

A portico provides solid curb appeal that accentuates your front entry. It helps to preserve the woodwork around your threshold and front door. It also shields your visitors from harsh weather and can protect your packages.

How much does a portico cost? You can expect to spend between $3,500 and $6,000 for a portico, but of course prices will vary based on size, style, and materials used. For the same reason, it can take one day to a full week to complete the build.

 

Half Front Porch

A half front porch is a nice option for smaller homes, if it fits better architecturally, or if you are on a budget but still want something impressive. They add strong curb appeal to your home and have room for seating. Half porches offer great protection for the woodwork around your front door and windows, as well as packages and visitors who arrive during inclement weather.

How much does it cost to build a half front porch? The average cost is between $8,000 and $12,000. Adding a half front porch can take three to ten days.

 

Full Front Porch

A full front porch is the quintessential option for Southern homes. We are often stereotyped as sitting on the porch in a rocking chair drinking sweet tea – and honestly, that sounds pretty great to us!

Adding a front porch brings amazing curb appeal! These designs often have plenty of room for relaxing and entertaining. They provide full protection for woodwork, windows, packages, and visitors during days with less-than-ideal weather. You can also save money on sky-high summer energy bills by providing shade to your home’s front façade.

How much does it cost to build a full front porch? These can range from $14,000 to $26,000 and an entire porch addition can take one to two weeks to complete.

Thinking of the Future

Although you’ll design a portico or front porch for yourself, it doesn’t hurt to think about resale value. These types of additions tend to be a great investment and Realtors agree! Approximately 96% of them have suggested that sellers improve their curb appeal before listing their home for sale, and 78% of home buyers either desire or demand a front porch before purchasing!

If you’ve been inspired to amp up your home entry’s curb appeal, give Georgia Front Porch a call today at 770-781-8234. You can also reach out online to request a quote or contact us with any questions you may have!


Early fall begins the transition to less humidity and quality time on the front porch. So let’s get started with a few curb appeal tips to help you get ready for the new season!

  1. Clean and De-clutter– Start the season with a clean slate. Make some time to pressure wash, deep clean, and de-clutter. Remove porch items that have seen better days or no longer serve your needs. Then, start anew.
  2. Add Fall Colors– Your front porch is the most welcoming element of your home. Add a pop of color to keep things fresh. Or, if you are going for a more relaxed vibe, choose soft whites, grays, and camels. As you near Halloween, bring in cinnamon, pumpkin, sage, green apple, and other fall hues.
  3. Incorporate Nature into Your Décor– Incorporate natural elements like branches or foliage from your yard for a more rustic look. Complement them with popular floral options like goldenrod, bell flower, sedum, sage, or heather. Etsy is a great place to find unique items like the faux pumpkins filled with live succulents.
  4. Bring in the Old as New – Whether bought at an antique store or made by hand, older furniture brings character to your front porch. Each becomes a conversation piece and a way to bring individuality to your home
  5. Spruce Things Up with Planters– If you currently have planters, change things up with fresh paint. Or replace them with faux boxwood topiaries for fall and winter and change them out with ferns come spring. Don’t have either? Perhaps it’s time to go shopping!
  6. Shine a Light– Want to bring visual interest to your front porch? Pick up some candles and enjoy the soft, cozy light. There are also battery-driven options that deliver a candle effect with a muted light. Or, string lights around a swing bench to create some evening magic!
  7. Tea for Two– More time on the front porch means a fresh cup of coffee in the morning and a relaxing glass of wine before bed. Bring in a small table for the perfect spot to set down your mug or wine glass.
  8. Rock Some Chairs– If you have a front porch, chances are you have a couple of rocking chairs. But if you don’t, you are really missing out. Is there anything more relaxing than sitting in your rocker and watching the world go by? It’s also the perfect place to enjoy the rainfall while staying warm and dry. Add a festive throw blanket over the back of the chairs for added comfort and color.
  9. Make Your Welcome Mat More Welcoming– Layer your welcome mat with a patterned rug to make your front entrance that much more welcoming. Another option is to greet the new season by replacing your current mat with one containing a fall message. Just a little reminder that hot weather is behind you and cooler days are in your future.

Love these ideas but don’t have a front porch to welcome in fall? Give us a call at 770-781-8234 or email us for a free design consultation. Then, we’ll suggest portico design options that will help you get the most out of outdoor living AND year-round curb appeal!

While we’d never argue that the shortest distance between two points is a straight line — that might not be the best way to achieve outstanding curb appeal. Here are some ideas to achieve a distinctive look and their corresponding benefits.

1). Use pavers or natural stone to create a curved walkway to your front door.

2). Consider an arched or scalloped wood privacy fence versus traditional designs. Scalloped fences have beams whose tops slope downwards between posts, while arched privacy fences have beams that slope upwards between posts. There are no harsh lines with arch-topped or scalloped fences because the arches are created gradually.

3). An eyebrow window is a curvaceous way to bring both light and ventilation into a top-floor space. Eyebrows work well for a variety of home styles including post-modern beach homes, converted-garage guest cottages and shingle-style homes. They can be created in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit your current architecture. One big advantage is that they break up the monotony of a traditional roof or flat interior ceiling.

4). Peripheral curves help further improve curb appeal by softening the lines in your landscape. It can be as simple as an arched mailbox post or a compelling arbor leading to your backyard.

5). Porticos One of the most dramatic ways to achieve curvaceous curb appeal is to add an arched portico. Over the years we have found arched porticos are extremely popular with our customers. Houses with arched windows are perfect candidate for this type of portico. And, if your home has curved transit windows, an arched portico will mimic those graceful lines. Arched porticos usually feature metal roofs, not shingle, because generally there is not enough pitch. We’ve built many porticos with roofs clad in copper that naturally transforms into a beautiful green patina as it ages.

If you are ready to stray a bit from the straight and narrow and embrace a more curvaceous curb appeal, please contact us. We’ll walk you through your wide range of options that add beauty and value to your home!

And, if you really want to expand your living space, you might think about a front porch addition. Just as there are a myriad of choices to porticos, there are a number of styles for front porches.

 

Ever see a portico-like structure but didn’t know exactly what it was called? Ever come across a structure that was like a fancy carport but wasn’t exactly a carport? Well, we’re here to solve the mystery. What you saw is a porte cochere, or coach door. The name is French, if you didn’t know!

It is a roofed structure that protects passengers from the elements so that you can drop them off before continuing to the garage. Typically extending from the entrance of a residence, porte cocheres are the perfect combination of curb appeal and practicality. In its original form, a porte cochere was a porch large enough for wheeled vehicles to pass through. But it needn’t be wide enough to accommodate a car. Many times, people build a porte cochere as a covered pathway between a garage and their residence. In that case, it’s also referred to as a ‘breezeway’.

Porte cocheres can come in a range of styles to fit the specific look/needs of a home. For example, an arched stone porte cochere complements a French-styled home. They are very common characteristics of Craftsman or bungalow homes. For homes that have long driveways, a porte cochere is an elegant way to ensure the comfort of guests who can make their way to your front door while being protected from the elements.

While we cannot claim to be fluent in French, we are very fluent in building beautifully functional porte cocheres. Contact us and we’ll be happy to help you explore all of the possibilities!

 

 

Due to COVID-19 many of us are spending significantly more time at home than ever before. Why not take the opportunity to consider options that achieve greater curb appeal so you can enjoy your home now and increase its value when it comes time to sell? Here are the top trends of 2020 for bringing fresh ideas to tired places on the exterior of your home.

 

Hedgerows

Beautiful, closely spaced shrubs offer privacy and an elegant accent to your home. Granted, adding hedges to your front yard will take some effort, but the results can be spectacular. They also help reduce noise and benefit pollinators and wildlife.

Lighting

When was the last time you viewed the front of your home at night? Is lighting sufficient to ensure your guests’ safety? Does it cast a warm glow onto footpaths? Is it simply functional and not decorative? If your lighting is uninspiring, perhaps it is time for sconces and pendant fixtures.

Exterior Colors and Accents

Darker, more pigmented colors help homes stand out from neighbors that have more traditional hues. In 2020, black and blue doors are challenging the dominance of red doors. Glass and iron elements have become popular door accents as well. To complete the transformation, personalize your doormats, house numbers and door knockers. The total investment is modest, but the results can be priceless.

Front Porch and Portico

What is more inviting than a beautiful front porch? Not only will you enjoy additional living space, but you will also improve your home’s curb appeal (and value at resale). A portico is a wonderfully affordable way to guard your front door from the elements and protect your deliveries — all the more important as we do more online shopping then ever before. If you love the concept, but are not sure of your options, contact us — Georgia’s premiere porch builder — and we’ll share the many front porches and porticos we’ve built over the years.

  • Replace an old front doorknob or address numbers that have seen better days. Add a brass knocker to your front door for instant formality and charm.
  • Show off your personality with a new front doormat. If you want to step up your game, layer up your doormat with an indoor or outdoor rug.
  • Window boxes are a great way to dress up your windows and add a splash of color that complement your home’s exterior hues.
  • Add a group of colorful pots if you have steps leading to your front door, or you have a front porch. Consider your color options. Pink blooms don’t work well with a red brick home. A white home gives you more options like purple, blue or green. Keep things simple by limiting the number of different colors to two.

Take advantage of your quality time at home by upgrading your curb appeal. As the only company in Georgia that specializes exclusively in porch construction, we’re here to help.

porch remodel

Compared to the Northeast and Midwest, Atlanta’s winters are a walk in the park. But that doesn’t mean that we don’t get our fair share of cold days. The falling temperatures discourage us from spending time on our outdoor porches and patios. It doesn’t have to be that way! Here are a few ideas to help you enjoy your outdoor space even in chilly weather.

1) Keep you and your guests warm

Few things are more soothing than a warm blanket and throw pillow. Choose warm, cheerful colors to help beat the winter blues. Think about adding outdoor curtains to your porch. We suggest selecting darker shades because they will serve the dual purpose of absorbing sunlight while shielding your patio from cold winds.

2) Install an outdoor fireplace

Whether you opt for a permanent structure or settle for a portable version, an outdoor fireplace is a sure bet to keep you warm when you are on your patio or porch. If you don’t want to go the fireplace route, an outdoor heater is an excellent option. Most heaters are propane-powered and easy to maintain.

3) Add more lighting

Don’t let the early sundown keep you inside. Install solar and/or LED light fixtures on your porch or patio. Strings lights are a popular way to make your space more festive.

4) Protect your patio from winter’s chill

Enclosing your patio with screens, plastic, or glass walls is a sure-fire way to shield you from the cold. If you have an open or screened back porch, Atlanta Decking can install Eze-Breeze windows to keep your living space a little warmer and more liveable in colder months.

5) Consider a hot tub

Hot tubs are soothing all year-round but have almost a magical effect in winter. What can feel better than soaking in a hot tub when the temperatures plummet? When you are planning your hot tub, don’t forget the privacy screen or enclosure.

Whatever ideas you come up with, we can help you with that! Contact us to begin brainstorming ways you can truly enjoy backyard living year-round.

porch addition

For many Atlantans, a screen porch is practically a four-season sanctuary. Is there anything more relaxing than a porch swing or a swing bed? Before you answer that question, let’s spend some time differentiating the two…


— Porch Swing —

While porch swings are typically designed for smaller spaces, they still look great on a wide Atlanta porch. Most swings fit two and are ideal for a relaxing conversation or swinging solo with a good book. You can choose from a wide range of options from teak, to cypress, cedar, resin or other materials. In most cases they do not come with cushions, so be prepared to do some additional shopping.

Installation can be tricky if your skills are a bit limited. We recommend hiring a handyman to ensure the chains are properly secured to your porch’s roof. That can be trickier than it sounds. Let’s not even consider what might happen if they are not installed correctly. Of course, one way to avoid this issue altogether is to choose a version that comes with its own stand. 

– Swing Beds –


When you think swing bed, think luxury.
 Keep in mind you’ll need more porch space to accommodate a swing bed than you would require for a porch swing. Most available models fit a regular sized twin mattress which you can enjoy as a regular bed that is perfect for an afternoon nap. They are designed to sway more gently than a porch swing for the ultimate napping experience! 

Half the fun is choosing the extras — whether they are cushions, throw pillows or blankets. Of course, all this luxury comes at a cost. Swing beds, on average, are much more expensive than porch swings.

Still undecided? Perhaps you should sleep on it!

Mulch. So misunderstood, yet so vital for your garden. Most of us don’t put much thought into what color we choose, the types available, or its many virtues. For example, did you know that mulch is a natural weed suppressor? It’s a great option if you prefer not to use pesticides. And, it helps to retain moisture around the base of plants and provides additional nutrients for the soil as it decomposes over time.

Time to shine a light on one of your garden’s best friends!

Types of Mulch

Each variety of mulch has its own qualities and best uses.

Shredded Bark: Made from woods like cedar and pine, this material is perfect for gardens on a slope. Another advantage is that it enriches your garden’s health by decomposing into the soil.

Pine Straw: It’s a little-known fact that pine straw is only available in the south. Pine straw is also ideal for sloped gardens because needles tend to hold well in place. This is a popular selection for azaleas, conifers, blueberries, and other acid-loving plants.

Bark Nuggets: Because they are less likely to wash away, bark nuggets work well for flat gardens. You don’t need to reapply it as quickly as shredded bark or pine straw because nuggets don’t break down as quickly. The bottom line is that it can save your bottom line.

Leaves/Grass: Free is a good virtue and mulch created from shredded leaves or grass clippings fits the bill. Be sure to avoid using chemically treated grass clippings, especially for edible plants.

Landscape Rocks: Pea pebbles, marble chips, granite stones and river rocks don’t break down, which means they don’t need to be reapplied annually. On the negative side, they provide no nutrients and require serious labor to remove if you opt for a different mulch type down the line.

Rubber Mulch: Skinned knees won’t happen on your watch when you lay rubber mulch in areas children play. It’s a sturdy and sustainable material for your garden and maintains its color extremely well.

Regardless of your mulch material of choice, the rule of thumb is to apply a 3-inch layer of mulch to your garden. For new gardens, be sure to start with weed preventer, followed by landscape fabric and top it off with garden soil and mulch.

Choose Your Colors Carefully

Depending on your preference, your mulch can either blend in so as not to steal the spotlight from your plants or can accentuate and highlight them. Mulch typically comes either in black, brown, or red. Choose a color that does not work against the color of your flowers. Black and brown are popular to help your flowers stand out in contrast to the mulch. Black mulch works well for gray and contemporary homes while brown is better suited for red brick homes. Red is a great choice if your exterior features terra cottas, golds, and warm tones.

Next time you prepare to lay mulch in your garden, consider all its virtues and the value of choosing the right color for your home. Once you do, you’ll join us in appreciating the quiet hero — mulch.