The pans are supported by steel framing.
The side I-beams are welded to a 5x5 angle ledger that has been through-bolted to the house.
Around the perimeter of the deck, the I-beams that support the panels are welded to 4x4 steel columns.
Once the framing is complete, the panels are laid in place.
They need to be handled carefully, because they will become the finished ceiling for the space beneath.
The panels are either screwed or (as shown above) puddle-welded to the steel frame.
Shoring must be installed to support the panels during the pour, and it’s left in place while the concrete cures. Here, the pour stops have been removed from around the perimeter, showing the 1 1/2-inch formed overlap that allows for a drip edge over the trim that will be fastened to the steel girders.
Concrete for the actual pour must be delivered with a pump truck.
The porch slab cures for about 28 days, after which the shoring can be removed, and finish materials applied to the steel frame.
Because the steel columns supporting the deck at ground level are in a flood plain, the author wrapped them with masonry block finished with stucco.
Columns and beams can also be finished with composite trim, which is attached to 2-by blocking fastened to the steel framing.
Note the tile edge trim detail used to finish the slab.
When finished with traditional trim, this coastal home’s porches look like they’re built with wood, but they are drier and more durable and require less maintenance.