Porch Column Rot

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Thomas529

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First post so be easy on me.
I will be closing on a house in several weeks which has some problems I will deal with. One is that the porch columns (4) are rotting on the bottom. Not sure how high up or how deep it goes, but an awl will go in about 3 inches. The house is 25 yr old and columns rest on top of concrete porch. Columns appear to be 4 x 4's clad with 1 x 6. Not sure of wood type.
Is there a way to cut off the rotten part and replace with new PT, or is it easier just to replace the entire post?
Does anyone have a set procedure for doing this?

One last thing...there are railings attached to each post. Railings appear to be in good shape.

Thanks
 
In short ....
Cut the railings loose from the post.
Using (2) 2x4's nailed together and a hydraulic jack, take the weight off the post.
Remove the old posts, install new ones, reattached railings
Repeat procedure for the next 3 posts.
 
Post up a picture of the posts and porch.

The procedure for temporarily supporting the load is as described above.

Whether the posts can be cut down and re-built with a composite material to break the capillary moisture contact and rot remains to be seen.
 
Once you get the existing 4x4 jacked up and removed, you can replace it easily. You need to think about your design from that point. Here is a nice step-by-step which might give you ideas on making the columns look really great:

[ame]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GbR5Cm2SDkM[/ame]

Have FUN! :D
 
Sometimes or most times the posts were set on concrete pillers and then the deck was poured around it, Depending on the depth of the post, can turn into a real job.
 
CallMe.....The current posts are exactly like the new ones in the video clip. Since we haven't closed yet no photos are available.
 
GREAT! Now you have the opportunity to do something beautiful and impress the wife. She might even let you buy new tools to do the project! (Great excuse!) With this much advance to plan, you can prepare accordingly.

Neal makes a good point ... if the posts are buried in cement, you will have to break them out and restructure. No big deal but it is good to be warned. Your project might get a bit bigger ... but the end result will be worth it!

Stay in touch ... :D
 

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