Oklahome Blog

Concrete or wood front porches?

Front Porch Styles – Which is Better, Concrete or Wood?

We were recently asked this question:  “Is a concrete  or wood front porch or deck a better choice?”

If you’ve been touring any Raleigh new homes lately, you’ve probably noticed a good combination of styles of front porches.

Most entry level homes have slab foundations with a ground level concrete porch. 

Mid-level homes are usually built with a crawl space foundation instead of a slab, and the entry of the home is usually several steps above the ground.

Some have concrete porches with a few brick steps (such as seen to the left), and some have “deck” porches with wood steps.

So which is better – concrete or wood front porches?

Choosing concrete or wood as the material for your front porch can be mainly a matter of personal preference.

Concrete front porches have gained in popularity over wood deck surfaces, but both types of porches have visual and practical appeal.

Here’s a few highlights of each style of front porch available with today’s new homes.

Concrete Front Porches

• Don’t need to be repainted
• Don’t peel
• Don’t lose water protection over time
• Are easy to clean
• Holds up better under high heels, sports shoes, and dog claws

Wood (Deck) Front Porches

• Can be painted or stained with a variety of colors
• Will need to be repainted or resealed over time
• Can sometimes collect debris in the cracks between boards that are necessary for water run off.
• Will require more upkeep
• Can be more costly depending on the size and height
• Can add to the exterior appeal of a home through use of color and accents

From an aesthetic point of view, wood or concrete is a matter of taste and preference.  Both can be very appealing, and can really add to or change the look of a new home.

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Article by Stanton Homes, central North Carolina