Learning the Difference: Porches, Balconies & Decks

The outdoor areas of your property are one of the first things that visitors to your property see; and you design these with as much care and attention as the indoor areas. While landscapes add greenery and freshness to your immediate surroundings, features such as Boston balconies and deck installations as well asporches add to the functionality of the place and allow you to use these open areas in an optimal manner.

We at Boston Ironworks can help with the design and installation of railings for these features. Here we take a look at what the differences between these three outdoor structures are:

1. Porches

These are covered shelters that extend out from the entrance of a house or building. While this feature is built against the exterior walls of the structure, in certain structures, it may be integrated into the main building and could be enclosed in columns, walls and screens. Some porches may also have iron railings added to enhance the aesthetics and safety of the enclosed area.

2. Balconies

These are essentially platforms built on the outside of a structure; they could have balustrading that’s installed using console brackets or columns. But some balconies may also be enclosed by walls on three sides. Balconies typically project out from the building’s walls and are built into the structure in stories above the ground floor. We can provide excellent custom Boston balconies and deck installations. These will be designed to complement the aesthetic and styling of your home structure.

3. Decks

These are flat platforms that extend out from the indoor spaces of a home and are open-to-the-sky. Decking structures are generally made of timber and are at a certain height from the ground; they can have spaces for seating, entertaining and BBQ and grill installations. Many people choose to have railings installed along the periphery of their decks as these add to the beauty, safety and functionality of the deck. In some instances, pergolas, canopies or shade sails may be installed on the decks, to provide some shade and protection from the elements.

If you are considering getting a porch, balcony or even a deck installed in your home, and want excellent railing installations for them, simply contact us with your project details. For questions and enquires on Boston balconies and deck railings, you can call Boston Ironworks at 617 657 3117. You can also fill in this contact us form. We’ll get in touch with you as soon as possible.