7 Things To Consider When Choosing Posts for Front Porches

In the market for new posts for front porches? Whether you're looking for load-bearing or decorative options, there are a lot of choices out there. How can you possibly decide? The experts at HB&G are here to help. This article will go over the basics you need to consider when shopping for new posts for porches.

1. Materials

You have several excellent choices when it comes to material for your porch posts. Each has its advantages and can contribute to the curb appeal of your house.

Wooden porch posts made of pine, redwood or cedar deliver a clean, charming look and are available from HB&G in 4-, 5- and 6-inch nominal sizes. We also offer synthetic front porch posts that are insect- and weather-proof. Our PermaPost® line of synthetic posts is made of polyethylene and comes prefinished in white.

Aside from wood posts and synthetic options, load-bearing porch posts, also called columns, are available in fiberglass. Fiberglass columns, which are insect-, rot- and weather-proof, offer a durable, flexible option. 

The best material to wrap porch posts will depend on your goals. PVC column wraps can be a beautiful and practical choice. A professional from HB&G can help you sort through your options.

covered front porch with columns

2. Style

The type of house you live in directly affects your porch post styles. Posts for front porches should complement a home's exterior. When looking for suitable posts, consider your house's architectural style. Possibilities include:

  • Contemporary
  • Mid-century modern
  • Craftsman
  • Colonial
  • Victorian
  • Georgian

Once you know your architectural style, you can decide on options like fluted, square, round or tapered posts, as well as raised or recessed panels. Don't forget to look for textures and custom possibilities that can help your porch post designs stand out.

3. Purpose

Which front porch posts you select will depend upon their purpose. Slender posts are an option if you're choosing posts for purely aesthetic reasons. But if you're looking for load-bearing porch support posts, you'll need to make sure to select sturdy exterior beams and posts that can carry the weight of your porch roof. Choosing the wrong load-bearing porch posts can hurt your house's structural integrity.

4. Maintenance

The material you select for your front porch posts will have a direct impact on how much care will be required. Some materials require a good deal of maintenance, while others need little upkeep. Fiberglass and synthetic posts are all low-maintenance options.

5. Installation

When it comes to installing posts for front porches, contracting with a professional is often your best choice. But if you have the necessary tools and skills, front porch post installation can be a DIY project — check out our Information Center for instructions.

6. Manufacturer

There are plenty of front porch post providers out there, but you want to find a manufacturer with the experience and credibility you can rely on. In business since 1880, HB&G provides solutions that last a lifetime. Review our gallery to see our outstanding products in action. We also offer unparalleled customer care and support services, ensuring you a seamless experience from start to finish.

7. Other Porch Post Ideas

Our customization options provide a wide vista of possible porch post designs. As you consider different porch post ideas, you can start with one of the primary column shapes:

  • Doric
  • Ionic
  • Corinthian
  • Tuscan Composite

Further considerations include fluted vs. non-fluted, tapered vs. non-tapered and round vs. square. Round posts for front porches often pair with Victorian or Roman architecture styles, while square posts are well-suited for Arts & Crafts homes or those with a more traditional or contemporary look.

Get Your Posts for Front Porches from HB&G

Homeowners and builders across North America trust HB&G's posts for front porches. We have the expertise and knowledge to make your porch post ideas a reality. Whatever your architectural style, we offer posts for porches that will complement your house's exterior. Our wide selection of materials and customizations gives you the freedom to create the home you dream of. Contact us today to see how HB&G can meet your unique architectural requirements.

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