A portico is a covered porch or entranceway to a building, supported by columns or enclosed by walls. It is a roofed structure with columns that is attached to the front entryway of a home. Porticos date back to ancient Greece and have influenced many cultures, including most Western cultures. They are sometimes topped with pediments and have featured classical columns, either Doric, Tuscan, or Corinthian in style. The different variants of porticos are named by the number of columns they have. Porticos provide a useful function in that they allow for protection from the elements while entering and exiting the home. They can make a big impact on a home, transforming a simple facade, and play a key role in boosting a homes curb appeal. Porticos can be more economically feasible to construct, making them an ideal option for those who wish to spruce up their homes front-facing exterior without taking on a major project.