The Different Types of Porches

Finding the Perfect Type of Porch for Your Home

When you hear the word "porch" in the Carolinas, you might picture a classic Southern front porch with rocking chairs and a porch swing. But porches come in many styles, offering unique benefits for outdoor living. At Archadeck of Charlotte, we've been designing and building custom porches for over 30 years, bringing homeowners' visions to life. Whether you want a welcoming front porch or a multi-season room, we can design the perfect porch for you.

Front Porch or Portico

front porch


A front porch creates an inviting entrance while enhancing your home's curb appeal. Whether you’re looking for a cozy space for morning coffee or a welcoming area for socializing, a front porch adds timeless charm. A simpler alternative is a portico. Porticos are a smaller covered entryway that provides protection from the elements and add curb appeal to your home. From columns to custom ceilings, your front porch or portico will make a lasting impression on anyone who comes to your home.

front porch

Pavilion, Open Porch, or Covered Patio

A pavilion is a detached, covered outdoor space that provides shade and shelter while offering flexibility in placement. Ideal for backyards with pools or expansive landscapes, a pavilion extends your living space beyond the home’s structure. Many homeowners add special features to their pavilions like outdoor fireplaces, kitchens, ceiling fans, or heating elements. An open porch also called a covered porch features a roof for weather protection while keeping the sides open for airflow and a clear view. Whether attached to your home or freestanding like a pavilion, this type of porch allows you to enjoy the outdoors without full enclosure. Ceiling fans, lighting, and outdoor furniture make open porches comfortable gathering spaces throughout the year.

covered patio

Screened Porch

screened porch


A screened porch offers all the benefits of a covered porch while keeping out bugs and debris, making it an ideal spot for outdoor dining or lounging. Many homeowners customize their screened porch with outdoor fireplaces, TVs, heating, and ceiling fans to extend its usability. In Charlotte’s mild climate, a screened porch can function as a 3-season or even 4-season porch when paired with a fireplace or other heating options.

screened porch

3-Season Porch

3 season porch


For those who want a porch they can use nearly year-round a 3-seaon porch is the perfect solution. A 3-season porch uses vinyl windows like Eze-Breeze to enclose the space when needed. These windows can open up to 75% for airflow in warm months while protecting against pollen, rain, and chilly temperatures in the cooler months.

3 season porch

Ready to Build Your Dream Porch?

No matter which type of porch suits your lifestyle, Archadeck of Charlotte is here to help bring your vision to life. Contact us at (704) 944-1350 or email charlotte@archadeck.net to start designing the perfect porch for your home!