How to Make Porch Columns Out of PVC Board

Porch columns add a stately look to almost any home. Using PVC board to surround the actual load-bearing supports ensures that the decorative columns won't eventually decay or warp. PVC trim allows you to avoid the hard task of mitering the edges of the boards and adds a decorative touch along the edges and at the top and bottom of each column. Columns can be any size, but for this example, 1- by 8-inch planks are used to create an 8- by 10-inch rectangular column. An assistant to help hold things will make the job go much smoother.

1- by 8-inch PVC planks, in length to fit the column
Strapping tape
Bubble level
Shims
Side trim, 4 each
Trim for top and bottom
Miter saw and box
Wood saw
Hammer
1 1/2-inch wood nails
2-inch wood screws
Drill with bit slightly smaller in diameter than the screws
Screwdriver
PVC cement

Instructions

- 1
  Create a frame for the support column by placing four PVC planks in a rectangle around it, with the butt edge of one piece against the flat edge of another. With the assistance of a helper holding the PVC column steady, wrap strapping tape around the middle and about 1 foot down from the top and 1 foot up from the bottom. This keeps the PVC column from falling apart when you let it go.
- 2
  Place a bubble level on each side to ensure that the column is plumb, or vertically straight. If it is not, place a small shim under the side that is not level to raise it a little. Remeasure and keep adjusting until the column is level. Tape the PVC planks to the floor and ceiling to help hold them steady and plumb.
- 3
  Nail the 1 1/2-inch wood nails through the flat side of the columns into the butt edge of the adjoining column. Start 1 inch from the top of the column and place a nail every 18 inches until you reach the bottom. Add a nail 1 inch up from the floor. Do this for all four sides. Remove the strapping tape from the column.
- 4
  Toenail two 2-inch screws into each top and bottom side of the column to hold it securely to the ceiling and floor. For the top screws, angle the drill at 45 degrees and drill through the PVC and into the ceiling a half-inch below where the PVC plank meets the ceiling. Attach the PVC to the floor in the same way. The screws will be covered with trim.
- 5
  Measure and cut the top and bottom trim to fit the width and depth of the column. Miter each edge at 45 degrees so that they meet to give a smooth appearance. Use PVC cement to coat the back of the trim and the area where they fit onto the column. Also coat the trim where it will meet the floor or ceiling.
- 6
  Place each trim piece around the column one at a time, ensuring that it is also flush with the floor or ceiling. Hold the piece securely against the column for the recommended time.
- 7
  Measure and cut the side trim to fit the height of the column between the top and bottom trim pieces. Coat the side trim with the cement and place each piece around the corners, holding it until it is set in place.

How to Keep Spigots From Freezing

How to Install Subsurface Drains

Special Outdoor Projects