DIY log porch. Do-it-yourself porch - step-by-step instructions

All photos from the article

In this article we will talk about how you can build a porch from logs with your own hands. Despite the fact that professional production of this structure can be ordered from specialized companies, doing the work yourself will allow you to save money and gain new experience that may be useful in the future.

But, before we begin the story about manufacturing methods, let’s consider what a log porch is and what elements it consists of.

Steps made on a milling machine

Log porch: construction features

In this article we will talk about how you can build a porch from logs with your own hands.
Despite the fact that professional production of this structure can be ordered from specialized companies, doing the work yourself will allow you to save money and gain new experience that may be useful in the future. But, before we begin the story about manufacturing methods, let’s consider what a log porch is and what elements it consists of.

Steps made on a milling machine

Design features

Porch protected by a layer of varnish from precipitation

In accordance with the structural design, there are two types of porches - closed and open.

• The closed version can be equipped with a canopy and sidewalls. Some buildings of this type are equipped with an entrance door and are used as a small veranda.
• Open modifications are much easier to assemble, since they are essentially a staircase with open railings and a canopy. Sometimes there may be no canopy, in which case the porch is used as a terrace if necessary.

The complete set of the porch may vary significantly depending on the design.

A traditional open structure consists of:

• stairs;
• sites;
• supporting fence consisting of balusters and railings.

As already mentioned, an optional light canopy can be installed - a visor.

A closed porch consists of the same elements as its open counterpart, but the canopy turns into closed side railings - either solid or with glazing elements.

So, we have decided on the design features, all that remains is to find out what the instructions are for assembling the porch. But before we begin to describe the assembly, let’s decide on the choice of production material and its preparation.

Selection and preparation of lumber

On a photo-rounded log, stacked

Wood used as a building material is characterized by a number of advantages, including ease of processing using simple carpentry tools, low price, excellent appearance, etc.

But, along with numerous advantages, wood has disadvantages. First of all, it is low resistance to precipitation and biological factors. That is why it is so important to choose those lumber that are characterized by the greatest strength and, as a result, durability.

Optimal results in terms of strength are demonstrated by rocks with low porosity and high structural density. Unfortunately, hardwoods are rarely found on sale and their prices are high.

The solution to this problem is strengthening and disinfecting preparation of lumber. In our case, it is necessary to select debarked or rounded logs of the required diameter and apply special deep penetration impregnations containing antiseptics and fire retardants to their surface.

The finished structure will need to be covered with several layers of paint and varnish materials intended for external work. As a result, a porch used outdoors will not rot, mold or dry out in direct sunlight.

Construction Features

A porch made of rounded logs, unlike similar structures assembled from edged boards, is not just a functional structure, but also a design element. Therefore, before planning the construction of such a porch, think about whether it will harmoniously combine with the main building and the garden plot.

A porch assembled from logs is an excellent solution for arranging wooden and brick cottages built in a traditional manner. At the same time, modern buildings made in a minimalist style will not be combined with such structures.

The use of rounded lumber in the construction of a porch is limited to the installation of supports, stringers and the installation of steps. To make stringers, the wood can be used entirely, cutting out shelves for installing steps. To make steps, a whole log will have to be halved.

Tree trunk slitting device

Longitudinal cutting is performed on a circular saw with a disc of the appropriate size. If you don’t have a circular saw, you can prepare the lumber using a chainsaw.

Important: The only condition for successful cutting is high-quality sharpening of the chain. If the chain is not sharp enough, the saw will move to the side and it will most likely not be possible to ensure an even cut. Moreover, during the cutting process, the two halves of the log must be hooked with brackets and gradually moved apart so that the saw does not jam.

So, we have decided on the features of preparing materials, now we will look at specific examples of structures built with our own hands.

Log steps

Steps attached to the house

Perhaps, let's start with the simplest design with steps without railings and auxiliary supports.

As you can see in the photo, the main material for assembling this structure is halved rounded lumber. We will not indicate the exact dimensions, since these parameters can be selected individually for each individual house to which the structure will be attached.

“Bowl” connection

The installation instructions are as follows:

• We cut the halved logs into pieces from which we make supports for the steps.
• We place the blanks on a concrete or asphalt base and attach them to it with anchor bolts.

Tip: In order for the structures to last longer, the concrete surface on which the wooden parts will be mounted must be covered with a layer of waterproofing.

• We prepare steps, in the lower part of which we make technological recesses (cups).
• Next, the steps are laid in cups on supports and fixed with hardware.
• Upon completion of assembly, the structure is varnished or painted with enamels that are resistant to precipitation.

Other examples of building a log porch

Let's take a general look at other examples of constructing a porch at a country house or dacha.

• Steps on a concrete base are a good solution if the amount of suitable lumber is limited and you need a strong and durable porch.

Steps laid on a concrete base

As we see in the photo, a monolithic or prefabricated concrete base was erected under the wooden steps. That is, the steps in this case are only a decorative element and nothing more.

• In the next photo we can see a partially enclosed porch attached to a log house. The structure is made entirely of solid logs, with the exception of the canopy, for the manufacture of which edged boards were also used.

House and porch as one

As we can see, the steps, stringers and railings fit harmoniously into the design of the main building and are perceived not as isolated alien elements, but as a single whole.

• Finally, another interesting example of the construction of a porch, where logs are combined with planed timber, which is specially shaped into raw lumber.

Terrace with log steps

Due to this approach to the manufacture of balusters, railings and other structural elements, the structure looks integral and harmonious.

Making a staircase

It will consist of 3 main parts - steps, stringers and handrails. First, let's make the necessary calculations. To calculate the size of the step, use the table.

The protrusion (the part overhanging the riser) should be a maximum of 3-4 cm. The greater the height of the riser, the narrower the step itself, but its width should not be less than its height.

The optimal width is 29 - 30 cm. When calculating, you should take into account the distance between the steps and the objects located above them (ceiling, beams, balconies, etc.).

It should be at least 1.9 - 2 m. The length is determined by multiplying the width of the steps by their number, the first being the floor surface.

If the height is too high, you can build a platform. It is recommended to make the platform after 7 - 8 steps. If you need a staircase with a certain number of steps to make a landing, reduce their height.

Making stringers

When making stringers, we use a pine board 40 cm wide. We make a pattern that exactly repeats the size of the step profile and apply markings to the boards. Then we cut out the teeth with a hacksaw or electric jigsaw.

In the place where the riser will join the step, we cut off the corner. Having made one stringer, we use it as a template for the rest. The strength, safety and durability of the staircase depend on the stringers; do not skimp on the quantity and quality of the material from which they are made.

Boards should be taken without knots and signs of insect activity. To achieve optimal strength, 3 - 4 stringers will be enough.

Installation of railings and steps

The step can be attached both to stringers and with the help of additional wooden fillies. We measure and cut out the required number of steps and risers from the board, taking into account the protrusion. We fasten with nails or self-tapping screws.

The design that uses triangular fillies is the most reliable. The filly is attached using a dowel, for which a groove is first made. The most durable design will be obtained when using fillies of complex shape, and a special cut must be made on the stringer.

Fastening the elements is done using glue and self-tapping screws. After the steps have been installed, you can screw the railing balusters to them. To protect wood from dampness, mold and harmful insects, it must be treated with special means and a paint coating applied.

Making a wooden staircase in a house is, in principle, not very difficult. To do this, you only need a high-quality board, tools and patience. Before you start work, analyze all the nuances, and it is also worth double-checking the preliminary calculations several times.

Watch the video: Kd.i: Do-it-yourself ladder, convenient and safe.

Types of wooden porch

There are a huge number of design options, but there are only two architectural options.

Frame porch made of timber and boards . A frame of the required dimensions is assembled from timber, a staircase and a platform are fixed to it. Railings and a canopy can be used as additional elements. If desired, such a porch can be protected from the wind from the sides. In terms of complexity, construction is a simple option and does not require special training or professional skills.

Frame porch made of timber and boards

Porch made of logs

We will tell you step-by-step instructions for creating both types, indicating the features and secrets of construction work. But first, we should consider the general requirements for all elements of the porch.

Determining the size of the building

To make the porch comfortable and beautiful, before purchasing building materials you need to accurately determine the dimensions of the structure. To do this, a drawing is created indicating the length and width of each element. The optimal width of the site is approximately one and a half meters. But the choice of this parameter depends on the size of the house and the preferences of the owner.

If the house is large, a small porch will look inharmonious. In this case, you can create a structure with your own hands more than two meters wide. Some owners of country houses create a structure the width of the entire wall to which it is adjacent. Others limit themselves to creating a platform measuring one and a half meters. The choice of size also depends on the height of the front door. The higher it is located, the larger the porch should be, because a dozen steps made of half-logs will look inharmonious with a platform one and a half meters wide.

The minimum width of the tread should be a distance of 27 cm. If it is smaller, it will be uncomfortable for an adult to move along the steps. It is worth remembering the distance between the surfaces of the treads. It should be approximately 18 cm. Using this parameter it is easy to determine the number of steps.

Foundation requirements

A wooden porch is placed on a separate foundation; there is no need to tie it to the existing ribbon under the house. Two types of foundations can be used for the structure: columnar or poured reinforced tile. Both are equivalent in load-bearing characteristics and performance indicators.

The porch is installed on a columnar foundation

The main task of porch foundations is to keep the weight light. As for swelling, it is not economically feasible to combat this phenomenon. We have already said above that in order to eliminate negative consequences, the porch area is located below the plane of door opening. A columnar foundation will cost a little less, but there are more problems with it during installation. It is necessary to maintain the horizontal plane of all columns, after the concrete has hardened, adjust the bearing surface according to the water level, make formwork, etc.

Classic concrete foundation

If possible, it is better to pour a reinforced concrete slab approximately 5–10 cm thick. The slab, among other things, will prevent plants from growing under the porch. You will have to constantly fight them, and getting to them is difficult due to the small height of the structure.

DIY porch

Prices for popular models of concrete mixers

Frame porch

It is made much easier from timber measuring approximately 100×100 mm, boards from 25 mm thick for steps and platforms, and boards from 40 mm thick for stringers. A frame is made from timber according to the dimensions of the porch. Frame elements can be secured with metal corners and self-tapping screws. Do not forget to waterproof between the vertical posts and the foundation.

Frame porch (markings)

Marking cutouts in stringers for steps

For flooring the site, use logs; the distance between them depends on the load and thickness of the boards. Check the position of the logs by level; they should all lie in the same plane.

The calculation of the stringers is the same as for the construction of a wooden staircase. If desired, the entire frame can be covered with boards on all sides, this will improve the appearance of the porch. There is no desire - close only the upper belt of the frame to hide the ends of the beam and the fixation points. It is advisable to treat all lumber with special impregnations to increase their service life.

Drawing up a sketch of the porch is a prerequisite. Mark all the dimensions on it and prepare the blanks taking into account the drawing. If you are confident in your abilities, you can prepare the boards as a set and then fix them to the frame. If you have no such experience, measure each board separately. It will take more time, but there is no chance of errors.

Porch on wooden stilts

Porch made of boards

Video - Construction of a log porch

Log porch

1. Peculiarities
2. Kinds
3. How to do it?

Recently, builders have been actively using logs to make porches. Despite the fact that its construction is usually carried out in specialized companies, doing the work yourself makes it possible to significantly save money and gain new experience that may be needed in the future.

Such a porch is distinguished not only by its attractive appearance, but also by its high quality and resistance to any loads, which is of paramount importance for such structures.

MARCHING

The most common type. A distinctive feature is easy and quick installation. Such a staircase consists of one or more flights. It has not only steps and handrails, but also a base. This can be like a stringer (in the form of a beam with a comb on top), a bowstring, or a support post.

Many people believe that a flight of stairs is too simple and primitive a structure. However, it is not. After all, the structure is made not only straight, but also rotary, as well as curved in the form of the letter “P” or “G”. In addition, such stairs are convenient for moving people and moving large objects.

Marching stringer stairs are in demand among MariSrub clients. This performance looks solid and majestic. However, such stairs are massive and require a lot of space, so they are not suitable for a small room.

Peculiarities

A log porch is popular due to a number of advantages that make it stand out from other materials. Today there are two main types of porch.

• Closed version, which can be equipped with a canopy and sidewall. Some buildings of this type are also equipped with a separate entrance door, so they can be used as a veranda.

• An open modification that boasts ease of assembly. It should be noted that in its appearance and design features, this version of the porch resembles a staircase with open railings and a small canopy. In some cases, there may be no canopy at all, so the porch is used as a terrace.

Using rounded logs to build a porch allows you to take full advantage of all the advantages of this material. The resulting design has a number of advantages, among which are the following.

• Strength and durability. Such a porch will not need to be strengthened with additional elements. The main advantage of the log is that it can be pressed tightly against each other due to gravity, so such a structure will not become loose even after years of active use.

• If everything is thought out and assembled correctly and competently, the boards will not creak. This result can only be achieved if the logs are tightly packed. This will prevent friction, which is the main cause of squeaks. In the process of building a porch, it is best to use logs processed at the enterprise, as they have an ideal shape.

• Original and attractive appearance. The resulting structure will be quite massive, so it can fit perfectly with the house. If you want to achieve maximum harmony, you can use a similar finishing option for the main walls, which is sure to attract attention.

Today, there are a huge number of logs that can be used in the process of creating a porch. The most popular option is a rounded log, which has a huge number of advantages. First of all, such a design can boast an attractive and original appearance. In addition, it is quite reliable and can cope with any physical stress.

Thanks to this, you can use heavy furniture, which will create a small veranda.

In addition, the porch can be created using half logs or from the chopped remains of rounded logs. Of course, the use of such materials will not allow you to obtain the same quality porch as when using rounded logs, however, the cost will be much lower. In any case, if you strictly follow the developed project and competently approach the process of creating a porch for the house, the effect will be positive, and the resulting design will be able to please the owner for many years.

Types of porches

When planning such a structure, the owner wonders what material is best to make the extension from. There are many types of porches, so when choosing one, you should take into account individual wishes, as well as the material of the living space.

• The most popular and durable material for building steps is considered to be concrete . It does not require large expenses, but its installation will take a lot of time.

• The next option is a brick building , which will be a practical option for a country house, especially if the mansion is also made of brick.

• Wood construction is considered the most beautiful and convenient material for building steps. Moreover, if you are the owner of a wooden house, then the steps will be combined with it.

This structure has a number of advantages over others:

• Cheapness and availability of materials;
• No creaking during prolonged use;
• Durability;
• Comfortable.

Depending on the design, it is customary to distinguish:

Pay attention to the appearance of the structure, because it is a kind of “calling card” of the owners. Wooden steps can have different arrangements.

Therefore, you must decide which entrance to the house will be most convenient for you:

How to do it?

The process of creating a log porch must be given close attention, since the quality and reliability of the future structure depends on this. First of all, you need to choose high-quality materials that can last for many years and will not deteriorate under the influence of external factors. It is worth understanding that the porch will constantly be exposed to precipitation and other loads, so all work must be carefully checked, and the quality of the materials should not be in doubt. So, to create a porch from a log, you need to do the following work.

• A small square-shaped hole is dug, the depth of which does not exceed 40 cm. In addition, it is necessary to get rid of the fertile top layer.

• A mixture of sand and gravel is placed at the bottom of the pit, and the thickness of this layer should be about 10 cm. Thanks to this, it will be possible to create a sand cushion, which should be compacted using a special vibrating plate.

• Time to install a small reinforcement cage. Despite the fact that a wooden staircase does not have any load, such a frame will have to strengthen the concrete and also prevent cracks and deformation in the future. Formworks, which are made of ordinary boards, are mounted along the edges. The upper edge of these formworks should protrude several centimeters above the soil surface.

• Once the supporting structure is installed, you can proceed to assembling the march. To do this, you will need to fasten several stringers using a self-tapping screw, starting from the first and ending with the highest. During the fastening process, it is necessary to pay close attention to this so that no moisture remains on the porch, as this can negatively affect the strength of the structure in the future and cause squeaks when using the porch. Once all the steps are securely fixed, you can install the steps.

When the work on installing the porch is completed, you can move on to creating the canopy. At this stage it is necessary to be as careful as possible, since the safety of the entire structure depends on this. It is best to use lightweight materials and use high-strength self-tapping screws for fixation.

Thus, to create a porch from a half-log or rounded log with your own hands, you need to follow step-by-step instructions and use high-quality materials.

Watch a master class on building a log porch.

Material properties

What is so attractive about wood, from which houses and extensions are built, interior items and outdoor decor are made?

Log bench

In our unfavorable time from the point of view of the ecological situation, with the dominance of economical, but not always useful, synthetic materials, we increasingly have to look at what nature offers us.

Wood is a truly natural product, products from which have the following qualities:

• External attractiveness.
• Durability (with proper treatment from external influences).
• Excellent tactile data. You want to touch the tree, walk on it.
• It is pleasant to be in buildings made of wood. They have an excellent microclimate, a light aroma of wood, and a feeling of psychological comfort. In such rooms you can relax your body and soul.
• Wood is a malleable material, easy to process. In this regard, it can be used to produce structures of any shape.

The susceptibility of wooden structures to weather, fire or insects can be eliminated by using special impregnations containing antiseptics and fire retardants.

Protective impregnation for wood

In addition to protection from the above troubles, the tree should be treated against rotting when installed outdoors. This applies to parts of the structure in contact with the ground. Treatment can be carried out using resin.

Log resin

It is also recommended to treat the ends of the parts with resin.

Stairs made from logs, in addition to all the positive properties of wood, are additionally endowed with strength and reliability. It’s absolutely not scary to step on such steps; they definitely won’t break under the weight of a person and the load he has.

And externally, log buildings look very stylish and massive. There may be some roughness, but when combined with certain types of styles used in interior and exterior decoration, this can be a certain highlight.

Log structures can successfully fit not only into the Russian rustic style, but will also look great in interiors in country and ethnic styles.

Staircase in a log house in the style of a noble estate