New Home Trends: Outdoor Porches?
On many of the newer model homes, you might notice what is now being called an outdoor porch. These often look like a without walls that is open to all the outside elements. This is a newer trend that is now catching on and if you have one of these outdoor porches; here’s some information on how to light and add accessories to this area of your property:
No matter what size your porch is, choosing lighting for the area is something that should always be planned. It is usually a good idea to replace the glaring bulbs that are traditionally found in porch areas with either red bulbs, that cast a reddish glow, yet they don’t hinder your ability to see in the dark; due to light spots caused by white light. On the other hand, if the red bulbs are too extreme an idea, you can always go with a softer light that stays directed towards the ground. Using the softer light should be a lot easier on your eyes at night. When choosing the lighting for your porch, keep in mind that the lights should always match the overall feel of the room and the architecture of your home. Try not to buy inexpensive lights, they have a tendency to tarnish and pit rapidly.
Porch swings are a very common sight on most every porch since the beginning of new home construction. If you decide that you want to install a porch swing in the room, make sure it’s installed properly. A porch swing not hung and installed properly can come crashing down, cause damage to property, and possibly injure someone. An eyelet lag bolt screws into an overhead joist; this isn’t always the best method for hanging a porch swing because the weight of the swing and its occupants could cause the bolt to tear free from the joist. A better method than using an eyelet lag bolt is to use an eyelet through bolt. This bolt passes through the hoist, or blocking, and is held in place by a nut and washer. These eyelet through bolts are much less prone to failure.
The porch plants you decide to add will depend on the area you live in. You need to consider factors such as how much sun they will need, how often they need to be watered, how much color you want out of them, and whether or not they are seasonal. Because of these factors, you should consult someone at your nearest nursery. Keep in mind that whatever type of plant of flower you decide to add, you should always make sure that it matches the overall feel that you are trying to obtain for the room.
See more:
House Plans with Porches
Comfortable Outdoor Porch – Southearn Living
Porches and Yard Furniture
