The short answer
Building a porch is a small construction project: a builder checks the planning and building-regs position, prepares foundations, builds the walls or frame, fits the roof, installs glazing and the outer door, and finishes the floor and trims. On a straightforward porch this typically takes one to three weeks. Because it involves groundwork, structure and glazing, it is normally carried out by an FMB-registered or building-control-approved porch builder rather than as a DIY job.
This guide is for homeowners who want to understand what a porch builder actually does, so you know what you are paying for and what questions to ask. It is not a DIY tutorial — a porch is a structural alteration to the front of your home, and the safe, compliant route is to use a qualified builder. All figures are typical illustrations rather than quotes. When you are ready, you can choose a porch builder and compare quotes.
Building a porch at a glance
- Typical duration 1–3 weeks
- Typical cost £3,000–£8,000
- Main trades Groundwork, brickwork, glazing
- Who builds it A registered porch builder
- Glazing fitter FENSA or CERTASS registered
- DIY? Not recommended — structural work
The stages a builder works through
A porch build follows a clear sequence. Knowing the stages helps you understand the quote and the timeline.
- Check the rules first — the builder confirms whether the porch is within permitted development and exempt from building regulations, or whether an application is needed. See do I need planning permission.
- Foundations and groundwork — the ground is prepared and footings laid so the porch has a stable, level base.
- Walls or frame — brick is laid course by course for a brick porch, or a uPVC frame is built on a low brick base for a uPVC porch.
- Roof — a pitched or flat roof is built and weather-sealed where it meets the house wall.
- Glazing and outer door — windows and the outer door are fitted, using safety glass in critical locations.
- Floor and finishing — the floor is laid and tiled, and internal and external trims, seals and decoration complete the job.
| Stage | What happens | Typical share of the work |
|---|---|---|
| Foundations | Footings and base | Early, weather-dependent |
| Walls / frame | Brickwork or uPVC frame | Core of the build |
| Roof | Structure and weather seal | Mid-build |
| Glazing & door | Windows and outer door | Specialist fit |
| Finishing | Floor, trims, decoration | Final stage |
Why use a registered builder
- Structural quality — foundations and walls need to be right; a registered builder works to recognised standards.
- Compliant glazing — a FENSA or CERTASS registered installer can self-certify the glazed elements where certification applies.
- The rules handled for you — an experienced builder knows when the exemption applies and when an application is needed, reducing the risk of a problem later.
- Accountability — using an FMB-registered or building-control-approved porch builder gives you a clear point of responsibility and, often, a workmanship guarantee.
How long and how much
A straightforward porch typically takes one to three weeks on site, depending on materials, weather and how much groundwork is involved. Costs typically run £3,000–£8,000, with uPVC at the lower end and brick at the upper end. See the cost to build a porch for a breakdown of where the money goes, and the main cost guide for the full picture. These are typical illustrations, not quotes — your builder will give you a firm price after a survey.
Ready to build? Compare quotes
An FMB-registered or building-control-approved porch builder can survey your entrance, handle the rules and give you an itemised quote for the whole build. Free to use, no obligation.
Frequently asked questions
What is involved in building a porch?
A builder checks the planning and building-regs position, prepares foundations, builds the walls or frame, fits the roof, installs glazing and the outer door, then finishes the floor and trims. On a straightforward porch this typically takes one to three weeks.
How long does it take to build a porch?
A straightforward porch typically takes one to three weeks on site, depending on materials, weather and the amount of groundwork. Brick porches usually take longer than uPVC because of the brickwork and drying time.
Can I build a porch myself?
A porch is a structural alteration involving foundations, walls and glazing, so it is not recommended as a DIY job. The safe, compliant route is to use an FMB-registered or building-control-approved porch builder, with glazing fitted by a FENSA or CERTASS registered installer.
Does building a porch need building regulations approval?
Usually not, provided the floor area is 3m² or less, it is more than 2m from a highway boundary, no more than 3m high, and the original front door stays in place. Exceed any limit or remove the door and approval is normally required. See building regulations for a porch.
Sources & further reading
- Planning Portal — porches: permitted development rules
- GOV.UK / Building Regulations Approved Documents — when a porch is exempt
- Federation of Master Builders (FMB) — finding a registered builder
- FENSA / CERTASS — registered installers for glazed porch elements
This is general information, not advice for your specific property or project. Costs, timescales and outcomes vary with your home, the porch you choose and your chosen builder. We are an independent information and introduction service, not a builder.