Why do some northern homes have outside walls that angle outward at the bottom?

Question

I've always lived in the southern parts of the USA but have been looking at homes in northern New York state. I've noticed that a lot of homes have this angle at the bottom, especially on enclosed porches.

Answer 1

I'm not sure which angle you are speaking about, if it's angled in towards the house, it's only a support issue.  But if it's angled out, like most roofs are it's to keep the snow away as best possible.

Good Luck on your move!

Answer 2

My guess would be that it has something to do with shedding water and/or snow. I've seen on a number of the DIY programs where they have added flared bottoms to porch columns to shed water away from the structure.