Back Porch

[Mike Nelson]

I would like to have a new rear porch built on my three-flat in Chicago.  It is about 8'x20' per floor.  I am looking to get an open wood porch (or perhaps metal).  The work would involve removing the existing porch, and pouring a new foundation, building a three story porch.   I would also considering repairing the existing porch, but that may not be feasable.

Here in Chicago they have cracked down on rear porches the past few years.  The existing joists are insufficient for the design loads.  It is possible joists can be sistered, but the porch has other issues.  I am looking for any recommendations for contractors, or ideas on how to locate a contractor.

[Mark Ainley]

@Mike NelsonWe replace/refurbish about 4 or 5 porches per year and we use victor at 773 Porches.  He is straight forward and follows thru.  We have been using him since 2010 and has done 20+ porches (1 metal porch too) for us all around Chicago. 

We have also used Steve Thomas from 5T construction who also is sharp but always seems to be about 10% more but his firm can be trusted.  

I like @george Foster and he seems to know what he is doing so I don't want to leave him out of my post so he may be a good source too.  But we haven't used him yet.  

Feel free to PM me if you have any additional questions on porches.  Been there done that in Chicago.