A sheltered place to spend more time outside.

Consider the view from inside, too.

The porch roof changes more than the appearance of the yard. Its height, shape and location can affect the daylight and view from adjoining rooms. Look at the nearby windows and doors as the outdoor idea takes shape.

Bring photographs of the rear of the house and examples of roofs you like. The proposed shape needs to relate to the home, the supporting structure and the way rain will leave the roof.

Put the covered space where you will use it.

Decide whether the priority is dining, lounging or both. Consider the route from the kitchen, the position of columns and how people will reach the open deck and stairs.

A covered room can work alongside an open area. Think about which activities benefit from shelter and where you still want direct sun or an open view.

• Furniture: leave useful routes around chairs and tables.
• Lighting and power: discuss fixtures, outlets and a ceiling fan early.
• Ceiling and trim: consider how the finishes relate to the house.
• Water: include roof drainage and where runoff will go in the planning.

Adding a roof begins with an assessment.

An existing deck should not be assumed capable of supporting a porch roof. Framing, foundations and connections need to be considered for the proposed loads and layout.

Ask what assessment, plans, specialist work and approvals are needed. If new structural work is necessary, it should be clear in the project scope before construction is agreed.

Bring the idea into your free estimate.

Share your location, approximate size, whether a deck already exists and how you want to use the covered space. Damond will discuss the available scope and next steps.

Review the roof, structure, decking, railing, stairs and any electrical or finishing work included in the written estimate. Material selections and approvals are part of developing a realistic schedule.

Questions before you begin.