What Kind of Building Product Can Be Used to Cover, Not Replace, Porch Columns?

Wood

• Pressure-treated and untreated lumber are two of the least expensive and most versatile materials for wrapping porch columns. Assembled vertically into a rectangular-shaped box, they transform small or unattractive columns into something that appears more substantial. The first wrap board is usually nailed to the post. The remaining three boards are either nailed around the post in the same manner, or they are fastened into a three-sided box and slid into place as a unit that covers the three open sides of the post. Special joinery is not required for an attractive and sturdy wrap, but you can add rabbet joints at the corners to help the wrap fit tighter. Rabbet joints are similar to tongue-and-groove.

  Treated lumber resists rot and insect damage. You can stain, seal or paint it, or leave it bare. Untreated lumber is less expensive, but it is prone to damage unless you seal or paint all sides, including the cut ends, before installing the boards. Finish the top and bottom of the posts with trim molding, if desired, and add other embellishments if you prefer. Galvanized or decking nails or screws are the best fasteners, as they resist rust.

Aluminum

• Prefabricated aluminum column wraps are available in many styles, and they are paintable. They are a mid-price option that falls between lumber and PVC. Aluminum is lighter and requires less carpentry skill than wood. Wraps come in two or more long pieces, which wrap or cover the column from top to bottom. Top and bottom trim is added after the column wraps are in place and fastened. One drawback is the ease with which aluminum is damaged. Dents and holes require patching with materials such as automotive body repair products. Aluminum’s surface may become chalky over time, but this is remedied with scrubbing and a fresh coat of paint. Rust is possible, so keep screw or fastener holes and seams coated with paint, silicone sealant or latex caulk with a silicone additive.

PVC and Fiberglass

• Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, and fiberglass are available in numerous architectural styles, and maintenance is not difficult. Both materials are heavier than aluminum, but there is no danger of rust. Most PVC column wraps are white, but some are available in decorative colors to match or complement your home’s exterior. Fiberglass is available in many colors. As with aluminum, PVC and fiberglass wraps surround the old column in two or more vertical sections. Once installed, they only need an occasional rinse or wash, the same as vinyl house siding and fencing, to keep the appearance fresh.

Brick and Stone

• Brick and stone give porch columns a stout appearance. Concrete porches are strong enough to support full bricks and large stones. The first step is stapling roofing felt around the columns as a moisture barrier. Metal lath, which is rough, wire mesh, gives the mortar something to grab. Wrap lath around the felt and staple or nail it to the columns. Spread mortar onto the lathe with a notched trowel, following the manufacturer’s instructions, and let it dry overnight. Apply mortar to the back side of a stone or brick, press it against the mortar bed on the post, then add more brick around and up the post. A narrow, tuck-point trowel neatens excess mortar between stones and bricks after they are installed. If your porch is wood, you can still have the look of masonry with veneer bricks or stones, which are approximately half the thickness and weight of full-size materials.