Summers in Dayton are made for being outside. But let’s be honest — not every backyard is set up for that. A plain old deck might do the job, but if there’s no cover, no screens, and nowhere to relax out of the sun, it’s not much use after a while.
That’s why a lot of folks around here are turning their decks into porches. Not full room additions. Just smart upgrades that make the space more useful, more often.
You don’t need something fancy. You just need something that works. Shade. Shelter. Maybe screens. Maybe not. It depends on how you want to use it.
Here’s what to think about if you’re planning to turn your deck into something more usable.
Start With the Deck You’ve Got
Not all decks are in good shape. Before you start dreaming about a porch, check what’s under your feet.
Is the frame solid? Are the posts stable? Can it hold the weight of a roof?
A lot of older decks weren’t built for anything beyond basic use. If that’s the case, you might need to rebuild from the ground up. Not always, though. Sometimes you just need a few upgrades to the structure.
A contractor will know. Don’t guess.
Decide What You Want It to Be
This part matters. Are you just adding a roof for shade? Or do you want screens? Maybe a ceiling fan? Lighting?
Some folks want a simple cover to keep the rain off. Others want a space they can use spring through fall.
Write down what you’ll use it for. Morning coffee? Family dinners? Just a quiet place to read?
That list helps shape the design. And it helps keep you from spending on things you don’t need.
Plenty of homeowners in the area have gotten help from BGCNow.us for projects just like this. They’ve done everything from covered porches to full outdoor rooms — and they don’t push extras you don’t need.
Roof or Pergola?
Some people hear “porch” and think of four walls. But you don’t have to go that far.
A roof with open sides might be all you need. Keeps the sun off. Keeps the rain off. Still lets in the breeze.
A pergola is another option. Less shade, but more style. You can grow vines over it. Add fabric. Hang string lights.
Pick what fits your home and your habits. And check if you need a permit for either. Dayton’s building office can tell you, or your builder can help sort it out.
Screens or Open?
Screens are great if bugs bother you. In the summer, they make all the difference. You can sit out longer. You don’t have to keep swatting things away.
But screens do block some of the breeze and view. That’s the tradeoff.
Some folks do half-walls. Some use removable panels. There’s no right answer — just what fits your style.
Think About Flooring
If you’re turning a deck into a porch, you’ll need to think about the floor.
Is the deck wood? Does it drain well? Is it level? Some people add indoor-outdoor rugs. Others refinish the deck boards or swap them out for something smoother.
Make sure it’s something you can clean easily. If water gets trapped, it’ll rot fast.
Keep It Comfortable
A porch won’t get used if it’s too hot or too dark. Add a fan. Run some lights. Maybe even mount a TV if you’re into that.
You don’t have to go all out. But a few small things make it feel like a room — not just a covered box outside.
Ceiling fans help more than people think. Even on a mild day, that little bit of air movement keeps the space from feeling stale.
Don’t Forget Privacy
Backyards in Dayton aren’t always huge. If your neighbor’s deck is ten feet away, you might want to add a privacy wall or some tall plants.
A lattice panel with climbing vines works well. So do outdoor curtains. You don’t need to block the whole view — just soften it a little.
It makes the porch feel more like your own space.
Permits Matter
Even if it’s just a roof over an existing deck, most towns in the Dayton area require a permit. Same goes for electrical work, footings, and anything attached to the house.
Don’t skip this step. It’s not just about the city — it protects you down the road if you ever sell your house or file a claim.
A good builder will pull the permit for you and make sure everything’s done to code.
Plan For Seasons
Dayton weather can go from 80 and sunny to storms in a day. Think about how the porch will hold up.
Use treated wood. Seal everything well. If you want to use it in spring and fall, think about enclosing it with screens or even adding windows.
It doesn’t have to be fancy. It just has to hold up and be easy to clean.
Final Thoughts
Turning a deck into a porch isn’t about showing off. It’s about getting more use out of the space you already have.
You don’t need to build a full sunroom. Just add the right cover. Get out of the sun. Stay dry when it rains. Sit out longer in the evenings.
Talk to someone who’s done it before. Plan it to fit your house. Don’t just copy something online.
You’ll be surprised how much more you enjoy your yard — just by adding a roof and a place to sit.
