There are few things more quintessentially Australian than living in a home with a verandah. Whether you want to build one for aesthetic reasons or you plan on using it for relaxation or entertainment purposes, it’s a good idea to hire a skill builder to get the job done right the first time. If you are searching hipages for a local verandah builder, here’s what to expect from them.

What does a verandah builder do?

A verandah builder works with all types of materials – including wood, steel, aluminium, Colorbond and more – to construct high-quality, aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound verandahs. They typically work with residential clients to understand their needs and preferences, and to create a custom design that meets those requirements. However, they may also work on commercial projects for properties that require a verandah, such as doctor’s offices and other small businesses.

During the construction process, a verandah builder will work with a team of other tradespeople, including carpenters, electricians and plumbers, to ensure the verandah is built to the highest standards of quality and safety. They will oversee the installation of any necessary features like roofs, gutters and lighting, and they may also be able to obtain the necessary building permits or approvals from your local council.

What are the most common types of verandahs?

Flat verandah

The most versatile and straightforward type of verandah design is a flat-roofed verandah. It can be attached to any building and can be shaped to fit most plans. A flat-roofed verandah can be used as a standalone structure such as around a pool, and they are both low-maintenance and cost-effective.

Curved verandah

A curved verandah is a popular option for those seeking a more sophisticated design. This type of verandah can match perfectly with existing structures such as a porch or flat verandah. It can also break the flatness of straight lines and add an attractive design element to your home.

Bullnose-roof verandah

The bullnose-roof verandah is an excellent option for homeowners looking for extra protection against the harsh Australian sun, rain and wind. The bullnose roof adds a focal point and can be designed to match or contrast your home’s existing colour scheme. Bullnose verandahs are usually made from powder-coated corrugated iron and can be designed in various sizes and shapes.

Gable-end roof verandah

A gable-end roof verandah is commonly used when you need the verandah to extend far enough to park a tall vehicle, usually a caravan or boat. It has its own pitched roof, which makes it a self-supporting structure as well as being attached to the house.

What are the top considerations when choosing your verandah?

If you want to add a verandah to an existing property, you will need to work out how much space you want to give to your new construction. Here are some questions to consider:

• Uses: When planning a verandah, it is important to consider what activities you and your family will be using it for. Will it be a place for outdoor dining and entertaining guests, a spot for relaxation and enjoying the outdoors, or a play area for kids? This will help determine the size, layout and features of your verandah.
• Features: The type of roof you choose for your verandah will depend on your personal preferences and the style of your home. Options include gable, flat, bullnose and curved roofs. The colour and material of your roof should complement the existing colour scheme of your house. Skylight panels can be added to allow more natural light into your verandah area.
• Size: When deciding on the size of your verandah, it's important to consider how much garden space it will take up and how it will affect the amount of light entering your home. It’s also important to consider the furniture you want to include on the verandah so you can leave enough space for movement.
• Height: The height of your verandah should be considered, especially if it's being attached to the house. Will it need a gabled roof line in order to be tall enough? What impact will a bullnose shape have on tall people entering your home? The height of the verandah can also affect the amount of natural light entering your home.
• Budget: Your budget will determine the overall design and features of your verandah. Optional extras like skylight panels, guttering and a water tank can be added if your budget allows.

How much does a verandah builder cost?

The cost of a verandah builder varies depending on the size and complexity of the project, as well as the location and experience of the builder. According to Innovative Verandahs, a basic freestanding verandah can start at around $5,500, with more sophisticated gabled-roof designs heading northward of $14,000 to $16,000. For top-of-the-line large louvre verandahs, expect to pay in the region of $24,000 to $27,000.

You will also need to consider the cost of obtaining a building permit for the verandah and getting a professional to draw up the architectural sketches for building approval.

Ultimately, it's best to obtain a quote from a builder after discussing the specific details of the project.

What to ask when hiring a local verandah builder

When hiring a local verandah builder, there are several important questions you should ask. They can help you make a more informed decision, so consider asking a few different tradies the following:

• How long have you been building verandahs?
• Can you provide references or examples of your previous verandah projects?
• Do you have proper licenses and insurance for the work you will be doing?
• What materials do you typically use for verandah construction, and why?
• What’s your process for designing and building a verandah?
• Can you provide a detailed estimate for the cost of the project?
• What’s your estimated timeline for completion of the project?
• What kind of warranty or guarantee do you offer on your work?

Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.