Transforming the Home’s Curb Appeal With Precision Carpentry & Structural Expertise 
A well-designed front portico completely transforms the look of a home. It adds architectural character, protects the entry from the weather, increases curb appeal, and improves functionality for everyday use. At LC Carpentry, we specialize in building custom porticos with detailed framing, curved roof structures, structural supports, and clean finish carpentry that elevates the front elevation of any property.
This current project includes:
- Relocating and reframing the front door
- Designing and framing a rounded (curved) portico roof
- Installing structural columns
- Reinforcing the landing and entry frame
- Preparing the home for a structural building permit
- Adding trims, soffits, and exterior carpentry details
Serving Medford, Somerville, Cambridge, Arlington, Belmont, and Watertown, LC Carpentry brings architectural carpentry and structural accuracy to modern New England homes.
Structural Reframing & Door Relocation
Before building a portico, the entry must be structurally correct.
Our team handled:
Reframing the wall where the door will be moved
Reframing the wall where the door will be movedWe install new:
- King and jack studs
- A structural header
- Proper rough opening dimensions
- Exterior sheathing adjustments
Weather protection
Flashing, house wrap, and waterproof membranes are installed immediately to protect the interior.
Correct alignment
A shifted entry must align with the new portico roof, columns, landing, and stair geometry.
This step ensures the front of the home becomes balanced, functional, and architecturally cohesive.
Portico Framing: Shape, Structure & Design
Porticos require precision because they blend structural work with fine finish carpentry.
LC Carpentry constructed:
A
curved (rounded) roof structure
We cut and laminated curved rafters to achieve the soft arch that gives the portico its traditional New England look.
Solid structural supports
Pressure-treated framing, proper load paths, hurricane ties, and ledger reinforcement ensure the portico can withstand heavy snow and strong winds.
Roof sheathing & waterproofing
Once the curved rafters are in place, we apply sheathing, waterproof membranes, and prepare for future roofing.
This creates a highly durable, elegant roof that defines the home’s entrance.
Column Installation for Strength & Style
Columns are both structural and decorative.
We carefully:
- Align and secure the column bases into blocking
- Install load-bearing shafts
- Add PVC or composite wraps for longevity
- Prepare trim details for a polished finish
The result is a portico that looks handcrafted and withstands decades of New England weather.
Structural Permit Process
Because a portico adds weight and modifies structural loads, we handle:
- Engineering review
- Structural drawings
- City submission
- Communication with inspectors
- Compliance with Massachusetts building codes
Homeowners appreciate not having to manage this process alone — LC Carpentry handles the entire permitting workflow from start to approval.
Finish Carpentry Details (Coming Next)
Once structural framing is approved, we will install:
- PVC trims
- Crown moldings
- Beadboard ceiling
- Custom column bases & caps
- Exterior lights
- New landing & stairs if needed
These elements bring the project from “framed” to architecturally stunning.
CALL TO ACTION — Want to Transform Your Home’s Entrance?
Contact LC Carpentry to design and build a custom front portico with expert structural framing and premium finish carpentry.
