Unlike other structural elements, porch and deck structures are visible to potential home buyers on a first visit, and first impressions matter.
Formal building inspection is part of every home sale. But is that the only building inspection our homes have to pass?
“In my experience, buyers begin ‘inspecting’ the home on the first visit,” says Linda Windisch, a real estate agent with Northwood Realty in Wexford, PA. “And one of the first places they look is the deck or porch.” Because these outdoor structures are more exposed, she says, they are an easy target for casual scrutiny.
“If the porch looks dry,” says Windisch, “it gives the impression the whole house is poorly maintained. If the railing lattice is weathered, it can reduce potential offers. Buyers assume they will have to do that maintenance themselves. And they wonder what else they’ll need to do.”
Replacement Railings Refresh Appearance
How important are these decks and porches to a home sale? According to the 2004 American Housing Study*, about 85% of all year-round homes in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area have one or more outdoor structures such as decks and porches. In other words, they are nearly universal.
“The presence of a deck or porch is almost expected, and if they are in good condition, it is definitely an advantage,” says Windisch. “The size of the outdoor structure makes a difference, too.” She says that regarding deck size, “more is usually better. People can see themselves holding that Fourth of July party and having a good time immediately.”
An inspection is well-advised to help you decide on your most cost-effective method of making the deck or porch presentable. The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors offers an online illustrated guide to deck inspection. According to their site, the most significant cause of deck collapse is the separation of the deck ledger board and the house. They say the frequent cause of all deck-related problems is railing failure. Porch inspections are similar to deck inspections, but include additional inspection details related to the roof, gutters, and structural supports.
Rebuild or Refurbish?
Suppose your inspection shows that your deck or porch is in good structural condition but needs a few cosmetic improvements. In that case, you have many options today besides the traditional bucket of paint. These include vinyl floor and post wraps, replacement railings, post caps, solar post caps, and replacement railings.
If the inspection shows deeper structural problems, rebuilding seems the way to go. In that case, Penn Fence’s professional installers can help you create a deck this fall that is safe, code-compliant, and good-looking, a real asset whether you continue to live in the home or sell.
Whether your structure needs a simple refresh or a complete rebuild, investing in its appearance and safety is one of the smartest moves you can make before selling. With professional guidance and modern materials, you can transform your deck or porch into a standout feature that boosts curb appeal, value, and buyer confidence.
