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