Building Homes or Extensions/extending a porch

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Expert: - 5/19/2010


Question

finished porch
We are looking to extend our current builder's porch (5'x8' over the fruit cellar)and roof to the end of the house, adding approximately 13 feet in width and about 1 foot in depth (finished porch would be about 6'x21'.  How deep do we have to go with the foundation for the new area (we are in Burlington, ON)? would you suggest removing the extisting concrete slab and doing a complete re pour?  What type of building permits are required if any? I've attached a picture of what the desired outcome is to be, we have the same style of house.
Thanks Sandy

Answer
Hi Sandy,

The footing for the new porch will need to be at least 4' below grade. The building dept. may require you go down to the house footing and tie them together with re-bar by drilling holes and using epoxy. I would remove the existing porch slab and pour it as one piece, however, that's not necessary. You should get a permit for this.

Michael Curry

Expertise

Carpentry and new home framing - insulation - drywall - roofing - foundations (block and poured) flooring (wood and ceramic) masonry While I build complete houses I am not qualified in plumbing or electrical.

Experience

Have been building new homes for 22 years and run my own company. I do or supervise most of the work.

Organizations
LIUNA

Publications
Have been on home improvement TV shows

Education/Credentials

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