Tools and Materials
Tools
Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.
Updating Your Posts or Columns
There are several ways to update exterior and interior columns and posts, depending on the type, size and condition of your existing structural elements:
- Column wraps can work with existing interior or exterior posts that are in good shape and just need a decorative look.
- Lally column covers or wraps give a decorative look to metal, load-bearing lally columns that support structural beams in a home interior.
- Load-bearing, structural columns have the strength to help support the roof of a porch or an overhead beam inside a home but typically require professional installation.
Take a closer look at your column and post options with our post and column buying guide and get inspiration for your new look with our column ideas.
How to Install Column Wraps
We’ll tell you how to install one type of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) column wrap by assembling the wraps, attaching them to posts and adding the caps and bases. Exact steps, as well as adhesive, caulk and fastener specifications vary by product, so use these steps only as a general guide to help plan your project. Follow the installation instructions that come with your wraps.
While we focus on porches, many column wraps can work indoors as well as outdoors. Make sure the wraps you choose are designed for your installation location.
Step 1: Ensure Your Posts Are Suitable for Wraps
Before you purchase column wraps, make sure they’ll work with your posts:
- The posts must be in good shape with no damage or rot.
- The posts must be plumb, or straight up and down.
- The diameter of the posts must be the same for their entire length and must fit the wraps.
- There must be a solid, level base for the wraps.
If you find problems with your existing posts or you’re not sure if they’re in good shape, don’t install the wraps. Contact a professional to see if the posts need to be replaced.
Step 2: Measure the Lengths of Your Existing Posts
Measure the existing posts from the floor to the overhead support beam. Write down the height of each. You’ll use this information to trim the wraps. As you measure, double-check the condition of the posts.
Step 3: Install Blocking
Depending on the design of your wrap, you might need to cut segments of pressure treated 2 by 4 lumber to act as blocking or a frame around the base, middle and top of the existing posts. The blocking helps the hollow wrap keep its shape. Size and attach the blocking according to your wrap instructions.
Some wraps don’t require blocking but include a base platform that you assemble around the bottom of the existing post.
Wear safety glasses, a respirator and hearing protection when cutting lumber and wrap panels. Follow the saw and wrap instructions for use and safety.
Step 4: Trim the Column Wraps to Size
The manufacturer gives you expansion gap measurements to allow for expansion due to temperature changes and to create room for the base and cap. Use your post measurements and the expansion gap measurements to trim the panels for a good fit.
Step 5: Assemble the Column Wrap
Some wraps come with three panels preassembled into a U-shape. If the wrap isn’t preassembled, use outdoor-rated construction adhesive and finish nails or pin nails, according to your instructions, to secure three of the panels together.
Step 6: Install the Column Wrap
Place the assembly around the post to ensure a good fit. There should be a small expansion gap between the top edge of the wrap and the porch ceiling. Secure the fourth side of the wrap with construction adhesive and finish or pin nails, according to your instructions.
Follow the wrap manufacturer’s nailing instructions. Incorrect nailing can damage the wraps, allow water to get inside the wrap and can prevent proper expansion and contraction.
Step 7: Finish the Column Wrap Installation
Attach the base and cap pieces with adhesive and nails. Create an expansion gap for the cap piece and seal the base and cap with caulk according to your product instructions, leaving a drainage gap at the base if specified by the manufacturer.
Repeat the installation steps for the remaining column wraps. Paint the wraps if necessary. Check your instructions for suitable paint and finish types.
Many column wrap kits include the base and cap pieces, but double-check before you begin.
Installing and Replacing Columns or Porch Posts
Installing and replacing load-bearing columns and posts is typically a job for a professional familiar with applicable building codes, because:
- A permit and inspection might be required.
- The columns or posts must be rated for the weight they will support.
- The structure must be supported by a jack post or hydraulic jack while the existing column or post is removed and the new one installed.
- The new column or post must be completely plumb and fully flush to the beam it’s supporting and the floor of the space.
Updating porch posts is just one way to upgrade the look of your home exterior. Take a look at our curb appeal projects, product guides and inspiration articles for more ideas.
Key Points for Updating Porch Posts
Upgrade your home by installing column wraps. These decorative additions can be a rewarding project that lets you update your porch and improve your home’s curb appeal. Here are the main points to remember:
- Column wraps are decorative additions to load-bearing posts that are in good shape.
- You may need to install blocking or a frame for the wraps, according to the wrap instructions.
- Trim the wrap panels to fit the length of your existing posts, including the expansion gap provided by the manufacturer.
- Assemble the panels, secure them, add bases and caps, and then paint the wraps according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Installing or replacing a structural column or post is a more complex project and typically best for a professional.
Shop Lowes.com for column wraps in different sizes, materials and styles to give your home the perfect look. We’ve also got the tools and materials you need to do the work yourself. Need some more help? Visit your local Lowe’s and talk to a Red Vest associate about your plans. They can help you pick wraps that work with your columns and make sure you leave with everything you need for a successful project.
FAQ on Updating Porch Posts
The answers to these questions can help you decide when you can update your porch with wraps and when it’s time to call a pro.
Can I Replace the Columns on My Porch?
Replacing load-bearing columns — those that support the roof of the porch — isn’t typically a DIY project. It requires knowledge of the column type necessary to support the weight of the roof and requires the roof of the porch to be securely supported during the work. A professional will have the best understanding of how to do the work safely and in compliance with building codes.
How Do Column Wraps Work?
Column wraps aren’t load-bearing columns. They can’t support weight. A column wrap is typically an assembly of panels that surrounds an existing post to upgrade its look. As long as the existing post is in good shape and the right size, installing column wraps can be a project for a homeowner who has a moderate amount of experience with DIY projects and tools.
What Type of Posts Do Column Wraps Work With?
Column wraps work with plumb (straight up and down) posts that have a diameter that fits the wrap. The post needs to have the same diameter from the top of the post to the bottom and needs to be free of any damage or rot.
Can I Paint Column Wraps?
Yes, you can typically paint column wraps, as long as you use primer and paint suitable for the wrap material. The manufacturer might specify you only use light colors to prevent heat buildup that can warp the material.