if you're in a snow area, 4 inches is ok. if you hold your fingers apart 4 inches you'll see it's barely anything, but will deter melting snow sloping against your door. 1 inch will be so small you'll trip over it constantly. If you're going to step down make it at least a moderate distance so it feels natural. Depends on your snow levels and preference.

Thanks, Gorillabuilder,
We are in a snow area. The porch is covered but undoubtedly rain and snow will blow in. I had thought that placing it closer to the interior floor level would reduce tripping, but based on your advice will reconsider that and place it 4" below.

I had a 7" stepdown to a concrete slab. I raised it to 3" when building a deck....much nicer now.

After reading the varying opinions I'm thinking that 4" is more than we need but 1" isn't enough. I'll try to experiment with different heights before permanently installing, as it seems to be a matter of personal preference but I'm thinking 2 or 3 inches will work for us. Thanks!

it seems weird but 1 or 2 inches is like stepping down from a the height of a cigarette pack. It's just a height people don't encounter much and it makes them leary and actually makes them trip more than something like 4 inches. 4 inches is more like a short stair.. a distance we come across constantly. In the winter, snow will drift also. But experiment with the 1 or 2 inches.. and you'll see how it's like a strange lip.

I usually set my decks 2 or 3" below the door saddle.
No need for more...and less is not enough. whatever you decide
will be OK, as you will quickly get used to it

steve

Set the deck joists 3 1/2" below the finished inside floor (use a 2 x 4). When putting on 1" decking, it will result in 2 1/2" differential which is very manageable and will remind one of the slight slopes while walking through the woods.

HU-685331054, the question was asked 17 years ago, hopefully it has been figured out by now...................

I set ours level with the interior. The Village required equal step risers so other option was a 7” lower deck surface Did this to facilitate safe transit of food/beverage and for senior citizen egress

Never had water issues because drainage thru the decking