A Complete Guide on Verandas

Introduction

You have probably come across the term ‘veranda’  if you’ve ever considered an outdoor extension for your home. But what exactly is a veranda, and how does it differ from a porch or a balcony?

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from what a veranda is and what it’s used for, to how it compares with other outdoor structures.

What is a Veranda?

A veranda (also spelled verandah) is a roofed, open-air structure attached to the exterior of a house or building. It’s typically partially enclosed by fixed decorative panels or doors and often extends along the front, sides or rear of a property.

In simple terms, a veranda is a covered outdoor space that provides a smooth transition between the indoors and the garden. It’s designed to offer shelter from the sun and rain while allowing you to enjoy fresh air and scenic garden views all year round.

What is a Veranda used for?

A veranda is an extremely versatile space that can serve a wide range of purposes depending on your lifestyle and home design. Here are three of the most common uses in the UK:

Outdoor Relaxation and Entertaining

Many homeowners use verandas as a comfortable outdoor seating or dining and cooking area. With the addition of garden furniture, lighting, and perhaps wall-mounted heating, a veranda can become an inviting space for hosting guests, enjoying evening meals, or relaxing with a book.

Weather Protection

One of the key benefits of a veranda is that it creates the perception of being outdoors while protected from the elements. The roof structure shields you from rain and direct sunlight, meaning you can enjoy your garden space even in unpredictable British weather.

Extending Living Space

Verandas also act as an extension of your indoor living area. By adding a veranda to your home, you effectively create a semi-outdoor room which is ideal for enjoying nature in the garden without leaving the comfort of your property.

For even greater versatility, verandas can also be enclosed with glass sliding doors or fixed glass panels, converting the space into a fully sheltered room adjacent to your home.

This allows you to enjoy your veranda all year round, creating a light-filled area that feels connected to the outdoors while still offering protection from wind, rain, and cooler temperatures.

What is the difference between a Porch and a Veranda?

The terms ‘porch’ and ‘veranda’ are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences between the two. The table below highlights the main differences between a veranda and a porch:

Feature	Veranda	Porch
Size & Layout	Larger and often runs along one or more sides of the building	Smaller, usually covering the front entrance only
Usage	For sitting, dining, or relaxing outdoors	Primarily provides shelter at the main door
Design	Often decorative and integrated with garden or patio	Functional, enclosed or semi-enclosed entryway
Roofing	Always roofed	Usually roofed, sometimes enclosed with walls or glazing

In essence, a veranda is an outdoor living area, while a porch is mainly a sheltered entry space.

What is the difference between a Balcony and a Veranda?

While both balconies and verandas provide outdoor space, they are quite different in terms of structure, location, and purpose. The table below outlines the main distinctions between a veranda and a balcony:

Feature	Veranda	Porch
Location	Ground level, attached to the front, back, or sides of a building	Elevated, projecting from an upper floor
Structure	Roofed, often partially enclosed with panels or screens	Usually open and enclosed with balustrades
Purpose	Creates sheltered outdoor living or seating area	Provides a small, open-air space with a view
Accessibility	Accessed from ground floor or garden	Accessed through upper floor doors

In short, a veranda is ground-level and covered, whereas a balcony is elevated and uncovered.

Conclusion

A veranda is a valuable extension of your living space, providing a sheltered spot where you can relax outdoors while staying protected from the rain and changing weather.

While it differs from a porch or a balcony, its distinctive combination of comfort, versatility and style makes it a truly unique addition to any home.

Get in Touch

If you’re considering adding one to your garden, our team can help you design and install a veranda tailored to your property and lifestyle. Get in touch today to explore our range of verandas and start creating the perfect outdoor space for your home.

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