Do you want to upgrade your home or you are interested in building a raised concrete porch and wondering how to build a raised concrete porch?
Building a raised concrete porch seems difficult but with some effort and the right technique you can raise a porch. It is a challenging task but it does not mean that you should stop trying.
We have done research for you and gathered some information to help you in achieving the best raised concrete porch for your home. Before diving into the detailed guide, know the benefits of a raised concrete porch.
Table of Contents
Benefits of Raised Concrete Porch
- It increases the visual appeal to others.
- The concrete porch is durable.
- The concrete porch offers low maintenance.
- A raised porch can be used for multiple purposes.
- During heavy rain, it reduces the risk of flooding to your home.
- A raised porch improves the functionality and aesthetics of your home.
How to Build A Raised Concrete Porch – Step by Step
Building a raised concrete porch requires complete attention and proper technique. It is because the concrete may crack resulting in damage or even collapse. Achieving a safe and stable raised concrete is essential.
Here is a step-by-step procedure on how to build a raised concrete porch.
Step 1: Prepare the Working Area
This is the foremost step that needs to be considered. Start by clearing the area where you intend to set the foundation. Remove debris, stamps, rocks, or any other waste material for a flawless work.
Take a shovel and a flat dirt rake to level the area. Achieve the desired level by adding or removing the soil. This step will ensure stability and even surface.
Step 2: Mark the Design
Mark the design of the porch with spray paint. Drive wood pegs or sticks to create the boundary for the construction of a raised porch.
Frame the constructed area by using wood boards with the dimension of 2 inches by 6 inches. To achieve the desired length of the wood, cut the wood with a hammer. Secure the wood pieces and to put them in their place, use nails. Make sure to fasten the boards firmly. Make sure to level the concrete slab.
Step 3: Spread out the Layers of Gravel
Spread out the layers of gravel within a concrete form of almost 3 inches high. To create a smooth layer, scatter the gravel evenly. You can use a rake to distribute it evenly.
With the flat edge of the shovel, press the gravel to the desired level. A layer of wire-enforcing mesh is spread on top of the gravel.
Step 4: Pour the Concrete Mixture
If you have a large porch, mix the concrete in a specific machine. For a smaller porch, you can mix it with hand. Pour the concrete mixture into the mold. Spread it when you are pouring and ensure that the concrete is distributed evenly before setting it up.
Step 5: Concrete Dry Time
Once you’re sure the concrete is distributed evenly. Let the concrete have proper drying time. The drying time may vary depending on the thickness and humidity level in the environment.
When you are satisfied with your results, it can be brushed as per your needs. The concrete takes a week to fully cure.
Things to Consider Before Building A Raised Concrete Porch
Before building a raised concrete porch, you need to consider the following factors.
- Check local building codes and regulations to build a raised concrete porch. This ensures safety and access to easy maintenance.
- Before planning for the porch, estimate the budget for the project. If you consult a professional, consider other expenses.
- Determine the size, design, and style of your porch to complement your home. The size should meet your requirements.
- Take care of the drainage system to avoid damage and hazards in case of water accumulation on the porch.
- Make sure the material you are using should be sturdy; it will ensure durability and longevity.
- Plan the porch’s accessibility to the house to prevent mobility issues.
- Consider climate conditions because they may affect the maintenance and durability of the raised concrete porch.
- Know the need for maintenance of a concrete porch. It requires, repair, cleaning, and sealing.
How Long Does A Concrete Porch Last?
A concrete porch is durable as compared to a wooden porch and lasts for many years if constructed or maintained properly. For better results, it is believed to take a professional help. However, the longevity and durability are based on the material you use.
Environmental factors may affect the durability of concrete porches so there are chances to occur cracks over time. Extreme exposure to sunlight or high UV rays can result in cracks in concrete porches. If you are planning to construct a concrete porch, consider the climate in your region. Other than that it remains in a better condition and serves functionally.
Ideally, a well-maintained concrete porch can serve for a longer time almost 20 to 30 years under normal conditions. A well-decorative and maintained porch can be used for outdoor living areas for varying activities like dining, lounging, or entertaining.
How to enhance the appearance and functionality of a raised concrete porch?
You can enhance the appearance and functionality of a raised concrete porch by adding some common textures and finishes to the surface.
To give the effect of brick, stone, and wood, press the stamped pattern into the wet concrete. It will help to transform the appearance and add beauty to your porch.
If you want to create a unique touch or add a specific hue or tone to your concrete surface, you are allowed to add pigments or integral colorants. You can mix the pigments with the concrete for a decorative visual appearance.
A polymer overlay is the best approach to add texture or decorative finishes to your existing concrete surface.
A stiff brush is good enough can help you add texture to your concrete porch.
Thus, you have a variety of options to increase the appearance of dull concrete surfaces by making them decorative and eye-catching.
Can you pour concrete over concrete?
It is possible to pour concrete over existing concrete but make sure the existing concrete is in good condition. In case, the existing concrete is cracked, uneven, or damaged it will affect the layer of fresh concrete layer.
For better adhesion and durability pour a thin layer of fresh concrete. Pour the concrete to smooth out the surface and distribute it evenly. If you have decided to pour the new layer of concrete over the old slab, the new layer would be almost 2 inches high. The thickness can be increased to your requirements and personal preference.
You can apply this method for various applications including repairing, adding decorative finishes, or enhancing the aesthetic. For a successful result, you can call a professional.
How do you raise sunken concrete?
Fixing sunken concrete to your property requires polyurethane foam. It is a cost-effective remedy. To raise sunken concrete, you need to consider a few steps.
Make small holes with the drill machine into the sunken concrete. Inject high-density polyurethane foam under the concrete slab. As the foam makes its way under the slab, it will gradually raise the concrete to its desired level. After achieving the desired level, the holes can be covered with concrete.
How do you raise an existing concrete floor?
Clean the existing concrete floor to remove dust, dirt, or debris. Make sure the surface is moist-free. Use a suitable primer and prime the surface for proper adhesion. Use a self-leveling compound to raise an existing floor. Pour the compound evenly on the existing floor. Spread the compound with a rake and ensure it is leveled. Let the compound cure as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Conclusion
How to build a raised concrete porch is not a difficult task. All you have to do to gather material, prepare your working area, mark the space, create layers of the gravel, construct a porch with concrete, do the finishing touches and the porch is ready. I have shared a complete guide to help you in building a raised concrete porch. If you feel the above steps are not working for you, you can call a professional.
