Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
01.
What size timbers do your use?
On our porches, the sole plate timbers and posts where they meet the dwarf walls are 150mm. The jowl posts to. the front on our Brabourne porch are cut from larger timber to get the curve.
02.
Can you adjust the pitch on the design?
Yes, we can adjust the pitch to match an existing roofline, or to help if you need to finish at a certain height.
03.
How to care for the oak?
Oak of course, will protect itself without any treatment. Regular oiling can help to nourish the fibres and help the oak age gracefully.
04.
What oil do you recommend?
If you do choose to oil then Osmo clear UV oil is the best on the market. Make sure any alternative oils have no varnish content. The Osmo will darken the oak slightly but really highlight the grain.
05.
Are there instructions for assembly?
We mark the joints for easy construction and supply the tapered dowels for final assembly. Erecting the kits is straightforward working from the workshop photos. We are always available to advise on the phone or email as needed.
06.
Do I need planning permission?
Typically to add a porch, planning permission is not required as long as your footprint is under 3m² and height under 3m. It is always worth checking with your local authority of course. If you live in a conservation area or your property is a listed building then you may need other permissions.
07.
What size foundations for the dwarf walls?
Typically an oak porch is around 1 tonne of oak, plus the waist height walls and the roof covering. Foundations of around 600mm are normally sufficient to support the full weight. This can change depending on the ground conditions. If you have any doubt, it is always worth consulting a professional.
08.
Do I need to have four posts or do you offer a 'front post only' design?
We offer a front post design where the top plates are dropped into the house wall to take the weight. This can be very useful if there is not room for the walls or there are any obstructions.
09.
Why do the dowel holes not align?
This is a traditional method of 'draw dowelling'. The tapered pegs will pull the joints tight as they are driven in from the outside face.
10.
What is the brown staining that appears after rain?
Oak can leach tannic acid, especially in the first few rains after install. This can sometimes appear quite shocking. It will always wash away naturally over time in further rainfall. If you want to help clean up the initial staining both on the timber and potentially any brick or stonework, then Oxalic acid can help. This is available from Osmo as Wood Reviver.
11.
Do I need oil every year?
If you are oiling oak then you will need to keep applying fresh coats, yes.
12.
How do I fix the porch to the house?
The only fixing we recommend is through the rear set of rafters to the house wall using stainless steel wall bolts. Do not attempt to fix the large sole plate timbers to the dwarf walls or through rear posts to the house. If the oak moves even slightly over time, it will break the fixings and possibly damage brickwork etc. The weight of the oak, plus the roof tiles and lead work, will keep everything in place perfectly well.