Front porch repair

[Horace Trumbauer]

Hi,

Looking for information on front porch (T&G floor) repair. I've browsed the forums and found some advice on the flooring but I would like to know what to do about the posts. I don't want to replace them if I don't have to, but they are resting on the flooring that I intend to replace. Anyone have suggestions?

[doyle]

What kind of posts are they? How are they attached to the floor (if you can tell, that is)? Are there railings in between the posts?

In most situations, you would use temporary support posts that angle slightly out of your way of doing the necessary repairs. Doing this would allow you to either: (1) Remove the post entirely and then replace it on top of your new floor, or (2) slightly jack the porch roof (maybe 1/8"-1/4") to allow you to Sawzall the nails from underneath the post. You could then slide the old boards out from under the post and slide the new ones back in.

Be sure and shop around for the pressure-treated T&G boards so they won't have to be replaced again.

[Horace Trumbauer]

Thanks, Doyle. They are square posts with railings in between. I think the railings will probably have to be replaced as well but that's not as problematic since they don't bear weight or rest on the flooring. Do you know of/have any experience with a new composite T&G material that is supposedly guaranteed for 20 years? From what I understand I think it's similar to Trex, but it's supposed to take paint or stain, and it's made in the narrower width appropriate for older houses (about 2" wide on our porch).

[doyle]

No, I haven't heard of that product yet, but I'm sure it will catch on quickly as most of the composite products have. As for me, I guess I'm still in the dark ages as I still prefer wood. The pressure-treated T&G should last well over 20 years exposed to the elements, especially if you are going to keep it painted.