Repair A Rotted Porch Column
Dutchman patch – done in place
Assessing Rot vs. Replacement:
Many times it’s simply easier and less expensive to replace the porch post as opposed to repair it. In our situation, we have three identical posts and the store bought, replacement posts looked vastly different. They were close in looks, but not close enough to pass muster. The option to repair this post became a better option.
We assessed the post and determined that if we cut higher than the rot, in the middle, we would create a “stepped – key” effect essentially making our post repair a stronger connection and also avoid creating a “hinge” point at the repair.
Removing the Column:
Using a reciprocating saw and multi-tool we cut out all of the nails fastened through the post at the top post, bottom post, and railing connections. The next step is to remove the porch column rot and that is when the ants came scurrying out!
Cutting Out the Rot:
We used a circular saw to make all of the long cuts and finished them and all cross cuts with a multi-tool. By making these cuts on a work bench, result in better working conditions which usually mean better looking cuts and results.
