Customize Double Wides with Snazzy Front Porches

Front porches are a coveted feature for many homeowners. Not only do they provide additional outdoor living space, but they also boost curb appeal and can increase a home's value. For those living in double wide manufactured homes, adding a front porch can take the property to the next level.

We'll go over popular porch styles, smart design considerations, and fabulous finishing details to create a snazzy space you'll love.

Choosing the Right Location

When deciding where to add your new front porch, carefully consider the orientation of your double wide. Opt for a location that will receive ample sunlight throughout the day to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Positioning the porch to capture attractive views of the surrounding landscape can also enhance enjoyment of the space.

The right location will showcase your stunning porch addition and improve resale potential down the road. So take the time upfront to determine the ideal position to maximize sunlight, views, access, and aesthetics.

Most Popular Styles of Front Porches

Traditional Open Front Porch

A traditional open front porch is a tried-and-true choice perfect for relaxing while still engaging with the outdoors. Opt for a 10' x 12' size to comfortably fit seating areas. Pick from gable or shed roof styles based on your home's existing architecture.

Craftsman-style squared columns and decking made from pressure-treated pine or cedar beautifully suit a double wide. Ensure the roof extends beyond the deck itself to allow rain runoff and ample shade. Open front porches strike an ideal balance of airy, shaded space.

Screened-In Porch

Screened-in porches allow homeowners to enjoy the experience of being outside while keeping annoying insects and harsh weather elements at bay. Enclose your porch with high-quality screening that won't detract from views.

Make sure to include lighting and ceiling fans for versatility during all seasons. Windows can also be incorporated for adjustable airflow and temperature control. Screened-in front porches on double wides enable outdoor living even on hot summer days or during rainy spells.

Spacious Wrap Around Porch

For those seeking the ultimate outdoor oasis, a wrap around front porch spanning multiple facades of a double wide is a fabulous option. Gently sloped roofs with overhangs and rail-lined edges will make this porch feel welcoming yet spacious.

Wrap around front porches maximize shade, ventilation, and picturesque sightlines. Graceful columns and room for plentiful seating make them ideal for gatherings with family and friends. Take full advantage of your stunning surroundings with this enveloping, scenic porch addition.

Key Design Decisions

When planning your front porch for a double wide, carefully weigh options for critical structural materials:

Also factor in your climate when incorporating necessary features like roofing, railings, curtains, or gutter systems to handle regional weather patterns. Ensure the structural integrity of the addition while stylizing to suit your taste.

And don't forget seating! Chairs, benches, swings, and even built-in seating along the edges of the porch create spots to relax and enjoy the newfound space with family and friends. Source seating to handle the elements to prevent early wear and tear.

Fabulous Finishing Touches

Lighting Features

The right lighting takes your front porch from basic to beautiful. Incorporate charming overhead pendant lights, illuminated handrails, or staggered ceiling fixtures for abundant ambient brightness. Lanterns and scones also emit a warm, welcoming glow.

And for special gatherings, string lights never fail to delight and impress guests. outageExtend the enjoyment of your double wide's new front porch well into the evenings by incorporating diverse, decorative lighting elements.

Greenery

Liven up your front porch with abundant greenery by incorporating planters, hanging baskets, decorative pots, and window boxes. Flowering plants like petunias, begonias, and hydrangeas add vibrant pops of color alongside rich green ferns, ivy, and leafy annuals.

Adding lush, well-tended plants boosts curb appeal while their colors and textures soften space. And you'll reap the relaxing benefits of being surrounded by nature right on your own front porch.

Decorative Accents

Infuse your front porch with even more character by embellishing with decorative structural accents. Graceful columns, painted spindles, shuttered side panels, and trimmed eave boards all customize the space's style. Scout salvage shops and home decor stores to discover diverse decorative touches to make your porch distinctly yours.

Ensuring Accessibility

When planning and constructing your snazzy new front porch, be sure accessibility is top of mind. Include a ramp or lift to enable those in wheelchairs, using walkers, or with limited mobility to comfortably access and utilize the space.

Also take care that porch fixtures, furnishings, and walking areas pose no trip hazards. Optimizing accessibility cultivates an inclusive, welcoming new hub for your home all can enjoy.

Professional Help

While ambitious do-it-yourselfers may relish the challenge of adding their own front porch onto a double wide, the complexity of structural additions makes hiring a professional strongly advised. Consult a qualified contractor, architect, or manufactured home specialist in the planning process.

They will ensure your porch design properly accounts for structural connections, weight loads, drainage, utilities access, permits, and more. Professional experience also prevents injury risks during construction. Though pricier, it's a prudent investment for safety, compliance, and lasting quality.

Cost Breakdown

What can you expect to pay for your fabulous new front porch addition? Costs vary based on exact dimensions, finishes, complexity of foundations and connections, and regional labor rates. But very roughly:

Also budget several thousand for permits, site preparation, stairs/railings, lighting, and design fees. Though not inexpensive, boosting your double wide's functionality and beauty with a stellar front porch pays dividends for years to come.

The curb appeal and enjoyment factor of double wide manufactured homes can be taken to spectacular new heights by incorporating a thoughtfully designed front porch addition. With strategic planning to capitalize on sunlight, views, and existing architecture alongside smart design choices and fabulous finishes, your new porch becomes an outdoor oasis for relaxation and entertaining.

And let's not overlook value enhancement. A well-constructed, gorgeous front porch can tack on several more thousand dollars to your double wide during resale. By following the guidance outlined here to create porch even neighbors will envy, prepare to fall even more in love with your manufactured home.