How to Install Porch Post Covers

Set a level in vertical orientation along each side of the post to ensure it is plumb. Brace each corner with a square and slide the square up and down to ensure the posts are square.

Cut two L-shaped porch sleeve sections to match the height of the post, using a jig saw or a circular saw. The L-shapes will wrap around the post, meeting each at the edges to create almost seamless, four-sided porch post cover.

Attach the sleeve squaring mounts around the top of the post and around the base of the post, using nails, staples, screws or construction adhesive. The tops and bottoms of the sleeve sections will attach the the squaring mounts. The mounts wrap around the posts and will help ensure that the sleeve sections attach uniformly.

Set a level along each side of each squaring mount to check for plumb. Brace each corner around the squaring mounts with a square to ensure each corner is 90 degrees.

Install the first porch sleeve section. Affix the section to the squaring mounts at the top and base of the post with nails, staples or screws.

Extrude generous beads of construction adhesive to the edges of the first sleeve section. Set the second porch sleeve over the non-covered side of the porch post, connecting the edges with the edges of the first section. Tightly glued edges are important for creating invisible seams. Quickly wipe away any adhesive the oozes out from between the edges with a damp rag or sponge.

Nail, staple or screw the second section to the squaring mounts.

Fasten the edges of the two sections together with finish nails or staples placed every 6 to 8 inches. Drive the nails or staples through the edge of one section and into the end of the other. The nails or staples will further help bind together the seams of the sleeve.

Adhere the first sections of the base and capital collars around the bottom and top of the covered post with construction adhesive. Apply beads of adhesive along the edges of the first sections. Adhere the second section, pushing together the edges of the two sections and wiping away any adhesive that seeps out.