Vinyl columns and rails are available in a variety of styles.
Vinyl columns and railings for a porch are increasing in popularity because of the longevity of the product and the advances in the technology. Vinyl comes in more than white, although white will always be a popular and classic choice. White vinyl columns and railings will never yellow, always maintaining their original shade. Another reason for the popularity of vinyl porch columns and railings is the ease with which the product can be cleaned. With no stripping or staining needed to revive the brightness of vinyl, simply wash away dirt and grime and the original appearance shines through. Does this Spark an idea?
Vinyl Benefits
The most important benefit of the use of vinyl columns and railings in porch construction is the durability of the product. Vinyl is a durable material that weathers better than wood or metal. The columns and railings won't require painting as the finish does not fade or chip like traditional painted surfaces. The styles and colors for vinyl columns and railings is as vast as it is for their wooden or metal counterparts, making vinyl a strong consumer favorite for professionals and home enthusiasts alike.
Vinyl Columns
Vinyl caps top the columns with a finishing touch that adds architectural detail.
Vinyl columns support the roof structure above the porch and are available in styles suitable for any architectural type. Vinyl columns can be cut to fit on-site with a traditional saw blade. Mounting plates made of steel are typically included with the purchase of the vinyl columns and are used to secure the column into place. Caps and base rings fit over the attachment mechanisms, hiding them from view and protecting the metal from wear and tear. The caps and base also provide a decorative finishing touch to each column.
Vinyl Railings
Vinyl porch railings are more than a safety feature; they are a design statement that's one of the first things visitors see when coming to a home. Vinyl railings are typically sold in 6- or 8-foot lengths, and the height of the railings is typically either 36 or 42 inches tall. Vinyl railings are available in kits that include the top and bottom rails, balusters and the hardware needed to secure the vinyl railing section into place on the porch. Additional decorative pieces are also available, allowing the railing to be customized.
Column Installation
Install the vinyl columns by measuring the distance between the porch and the ceiling structure. Subtract the height of the mounting brackets and cut the column to fit that final measurement. Install the mounting bracket to the floor of the porch. Slide the center support tube into the hole in the mounting bracket and slide the vinyl column down over that. Screw it into place to secure it and snap on the base molding to hide the screws. Repeat this process at the ceiling to complete the installation of the column.
Railing Installation
Measure the distance between the two columns where the the vinyl railing is to be installed. Trim the railing section by cutting equal amounts from either end to keep the appearance uniform between the entire porch structure. Set a foot peg or two in place to hold the bottom rail in place during installation. The foot peg may be provided with the product or one can be made from scraps. It should be the same size as the distance between the porch and the bottom rail. Put the mounting brackets onto both the top and the bottom rails by sliding them on. Secure the bottom rail to the column first, checking to make sure it's level. Place the railing balustrades into place and install the top railing to secure the balustrades. Adjust the top rail as needed to keep the individual rails plumb. Secure the top rail to the column. Repeat this process with each section until the rail is complete.
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