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Porch railing plans


How to build porch railing | HowToSpecialist

This step by step diy project is about how to build porch railing. Building porch railing is a complex project, but anyone with basic skills can get the job done. Work with attention and with great care before starting the actual construction project. Take a look over the rest of the deck projects, as there are many techniques and tricks that you could learn or just get an idea of the steps required.

After you make the frame of the front porch, we recommend you to attach the railing. As you will see in this detailed tutorial, making the railing is an easy job, if you take accurate measurements and you use professional tools. Make sure you cut the bottom ends of the balusters at 45 degrees, as to enhance the look of the porch. In addition, pay attention to the handrail joints.

As we always emphasize, you should adjust the size of the porch to your needs. Therefore, you need to modify the size of the components to the appropriate dimensions, but you can still use the guidelines shown in this article. Don’t forget that you shouldn’t leave more 4″ between the balusters. Moreover, take a look over the local building codes, to get accustomed with the legal requirements.

 

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 Building porch railing

Building porch railing

 

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How to build porch railing

Fitting the posts

 

The first step of the backyard project is to install the posts into place. Therefore, we recommend you to secure the regular posts to the deck framing, while the center posts should be set into the ground for at least 3′. Dig the holes with a post digger, set the posts into place and fill the cavities with concrete.

Smart Tip: Lock the posts to the joists with wood screws from the outside and let the concrete to dry out for several days. Plumb the posts with a spirit level, if you want to get an accurate result.

 

Installing the cleats – front face

 

The next step of the project is to install the 2×4 cleats that will support the balusters, between the wooden posts. Drill pocket holes at both ends of the cleats and lock them to the posts with galvanized screws. Leave about 3 1/2″ from the decking to the bottom cleat, and adjust everything to suit your needs. Add waterproof glue to the joints, if you want to create a rigid structure.

 

Installing the cleats

 

Continue the project in the same manner, by attaching the cleats to both sides of the porch. Building porch railing is not a complex project, but you need to pay attention to several aspects.

 

Fitting the balusters

 

The next step of the project is to install the 2×2 balusters. If you want to enhance the look of the front porch, we recommend you to cut the bottom of the balusters at 45 degrees. Drill pilot holes trough the balusters before inserting the 2 1/2″ wood screws into the cleats.

Smart Tip: Place a piece of wood between the balusters if you want to create equal gaps between them. Pre-drilling the components is essential, as it prevents the wood from splitting.

 

Fitting the balusters – sides

 

Proceed in the same manner described above, on both sides of the porch, if you want to get the job done in a professional manner. Build the balusters from quality lumber, making sure the components are perfectly straight and in a good visual condition.

 

Fitting the handrail

 

One of the last steps of the project is to attach the handrails. Therefore, use 2×4 lumber and create strong joints, as in the plans. Cut one end of the components at 45 degrees, otherwise they won’t lock together easily. Drill pilot holes trough the handrail before inserting the screws into the cleats. Don’t forget to countersink the head of the screws, otherwise you won’t get an even surface.

 

How to build porch railing

 

Last but not least, we recommend you to take care of the finishing touches. Fill the holes with wood filler and let it to dry out for several hours. Afterwards, smooth the wooden surface with fine-grit sandpaper and vacuum the residues. Take a look on the rest of the project is you want to learn how to build the frame and the stairs for the porch.

Smart Tip: Apply several coats of stain or paint to the wooden components, if you want to protect them from decay and to enhance the look of the porch railing.

 

 

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How to Build a Porch Railing

By

Lee Wallender

Lee Wallender

Lee has over two decades of hands-on experience remodeling, fixing, and improving homes, and has been providing home improvement advice for over 13 years.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

Updated on 07/06/22

Reviewed by

Deane Biermeier

Reviewed by Deane Biermeier

Deane Biermeier is an expert contractor with nearly 30 years of experience in all types of home repair, maintenance, and remodeling. He is a certified lead carpenter and also holds a certification from the EPA. Deane is a member of The Spruce's Home Improvement Review Board.

Learn more about The Spruce's Review Board

fredrocko / Getty Images

Project Overview

Porch railing helps to define the look and dimensions of your home’s porch. Along with the posts that support the porch roof, porch railing is prominent and highly visible—it’s the first part of the porch that visitors see as they approach your home. Not only is porch railing a style element, it’s a safety device that prevents users from falling off the edge of the porch. Simple, attractive porch railing can easily be installed in a weekend.

Choosing Wood For Your Porch Railing

Porch railing constructed of red cedar can be stained, painted, or left to weather on its own to a silvery gray color. White or red oak are denser and more difficult to cut than red cedar and must be sealed against the weather. Both are easy to obtain since they are found at most home centers. They stain well and they last longer than softwoods.

Extremely dense woods such as mahogany, rosewood, chestnut, and birch are beautiful and add value to your home. But these woods are quite expensive and are hard to drill and cut. 

Codes and Regulations

In many communities, any porch or deck that is higher than 30 inches is required to have a railing that is at least 36 inches high. Rail height is measured from the top of the porch flooring to the top of the rail. Higher railing is usually allowed. Check with your local permitting office for details. Porch balusters, when required, must be no more than four inches apart.

Equipment / Tools

Materials

  1. Mark the Height of the Porch Railing

    With the tape measure, mark the intended height of the porch railing on each solid attachment point. In most cases, the height of the railing will be 36 inches high.

    Tip

    An attachment point can be two posts that hold up the porch roof or the side of the house (with a solid stud underneath) or a combination of the two.

  2. Measure the Width of the Porch Railing

    Measure horizontally from one post to another. Using a tape measure or laser measuring device can be imprecise because you need to maintain the level. Also, tape a tape measure could bend over that distance.

    Clamp the two one-by-twos together with the spring clamps, one on top of the other. For a railing that will be eight feet long, extend this temporary measuring device so that it is about seven feet long. Hold this device between the attachment points with the bubble level taped to the top to keep it level. Have an assistant open the spring clamps as you widen the device to the width of the opening between attachment points.

    Place the device on the ground, then measure its length with the tape measure.

  3. Cut the Railing to Size

    Transfer the horizontal measurement to one of the one-by-four boards (the top railing). With the electric miter saw, cut the railing to size.

  4. Cut the Base to Size

    Using the cut railing as a measuring device, double-check that the two attachment points at floor-level are the same distance. If so, transfer this distance to the other one-by-four board. Cut the board to size with the miter saw.

  5. Cut the Inner Section Boards

    Two one-by-three boards form an inner section that is sandwiched between the railing and the lower, base board. The balusters run perpendicular between these inner section boards. This arrangement allows you to attach the balusters with a minimum of visible fasteners.

    Cut one of the one-by-threes to the length of the top railing. Cut the other one-by-three to the length of the base board.

  6. Cut the Balusters

    Cut the remainder of the one-by-threes into 24 pieces, each at 33 inches long.

  7. Build the Rail Section

    Attach the balusters no more than four inches from each other to the top and bottom inner section one-by-threes, by screwing them in from the respective top and bottom of the longer one-by-threes.

    Make Template Blocks

    To speed up the building process and ensure accurate distance between balusters, cut two pieces of scrap wood to precisely four inches long. Butt the two blocks, one on top and one on the bottom, between balusters when attaching them to the inner one-by-three boards.

  8. Attach the Base Board

    Attach the base board to the bottom inner section board. Do this from the bottom upward. 

    Tip

    Make sure that the screwheads are sunk flush or below the level of the board. Otherwise, the railing will not sit properly.

  9. Attach the Railing

    Attach the railing to the top inner section board from underneath the inner section board. Use eight screws, spacing the screws evenly. With these screws, be sure to sink them below the surface by about 1/8-inch.

  10. Cover the Screw Holes

    With wood glue, place the wood button plugs into the screw holes. After the glue has dried, sand down the button plugs so that they are flush with the surface of the wood.

  11. Attach the Railing to the Porch

    Screw the railing to the porch. Be sure to hit solid wood underneath the floorboards such as joists or rim joists. Sink the screw heads below the surface. Similar to the upper screws, add wood button plugs, allow the glue to dry, then sand them flush with the surface.

  12. Attach the Railing to the Attachment Points

    Secure the railing (from underneath) to the attachment points with the two corner braces.

  13. Finish Railing

    Finish the railing by painting or staining and sealing against weather. If you are using cedar, you may skip this step and allow the wood to weather in place if you like.

Porch railing photo

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Porch railing: types of material and their installation by hand

The house begins from the porch - it is on it that all people who come to visit pay attention first of all. It should be comfortable, beautiful and, of course, reliable.

The number of steps depends on the height of the foundation. Depending on the location of the porch, it is framed on one or both sides with a railing. nine0003

It is their varieties and construction that will be discussed in this article.

Purpose of this railing

Railings provide a safe way to walk on the porch. Being a good support, they help to avoid falling when the porch can be slippery. Without them, it looks uncomfortable and unsafe.

In addition, the railing has a decorative function, supporting the overall style of the building, making the porch structure complete. Made of wood, metal, stone or synthetic materials, handrails can be a real decoration of the house, making the patio cozier and more welcoming. nine0003

Railing characteristics

The height of the railing primarily depends on the occupants - the convenience and functionality of the railing depends on it. The average height that allows an adult to comfortably climb the porch, holding onto the handrails, is about 90 cm. This figure is enshrined in SNiP 31-02-201. The width of the railing should not exceed the width of the palm.

The presence of small children in the house will serve as a reason to install additional handrails, which are attached to the main structure with the help of special brackets. nine0003

The standard height of the children's railing is 50 cm, but it can be adjusted according to needs. When the need for additional support disappears, it is easily dismantled.

The strength of the supporting structure is of no small importance - if necessary, it must easily support the weight of an adult. For overweight people, it is advisable to install metal handrails of increased strength. Other durable materials such as concrete or wood can also be used. nine0003

If you are interested in how to make a wrought iron porch railing, read this material.

Detailed information about what a fence grillage is, where it is used and how to make it - here.

You can see the main list of useful and important SNiPs in construction in this article.

Types of construction

The choice of material depends on a number of factors:

The durability of the structure, its aesthetic appearance will depend on the quality of the selected material. Outdoor placement is fraught with the influence of various natural phenomena - temperature changes or high humidity.

Metal

Metal railings look expensive and beautiful. In addition, they are distinguished by increased strength and reliability. This type will look good with any type of structure, especially in combination with other materials - wooden handrails or stone (brick) decoration of the porch itself. The presence of other decorative elements made of metal, the use of metal structures in the yard also speaks in favor of installing such a handrail. nine0003

Only stainless steel must be used for the construction of street railings. To exclude the possibility of corrosion damage and maintain an aesthetic appearance for many years, the metal must be treated with special anti-corrosion agents that will provide reliable protection from direct sunlight, moisture and temperature extremes.

When choosing the appearance of the fence, avoid sharp corners. They not only look ugly, but are also dangerous to human life and health. nine0003

If mishandled, these protrusions can cause injury or damage clothing. The presence of sharp protrusions and corners is also unacceptable if there are small children in the house. Rounded ends look very impressive and are absolutely safe for health. If the design of the fence does not involve smoothing, the edges can be decorated with special caps, which will also become an excellent decorative element.

Metal forging looks the most solid - the opportunity to decorate the porch with the author's image makes the yard unique, distinguishing it from its neighbors. nine0003

Made of wood

Wood has always been famous for its strength and aesthetic appearance. Radiating a special warmth, this material is the best suited for decorating interiors and exteriors. If wood was used in the decoration of the house, then wooden porch railings would be the best option. To strengthen the structure, you can leave a metal frame, decorated with a wooden handrail on top.

This material is distinguished by such qualities as:

However, it also has disadvantages. Whatever coatings are applied to the surface, wood is short-lived compared to other materials. Under the influence of negative environmental factors, such as rain, snow, temperature changes, it can lose its color, dry out or swell.

In addition, it must be remembered that wood has sections and needs good processing and a special coating. This is the only way to avoid injury to the skin of the hands in contact with the railing. nine0003

Made of PVC

Polyvinylchloride is strong, durable, versatile and affordable. The ability to easily acquire any, even the most intricate shape, distinguishes this material from wood or metal. Due to the combination of these qualities, plastic fences are very popular.

Benefits:

However, imitation wood will not look good if the house is finished with natural wood or stone. The status of the building can be emphasized only by natural materials.

Concrete

Modern concrete has a variety of textures - it can imitate any of the popular materials. Capitalism, strength and durability, combined with the beauty of execution, make it indispensable in the design of status houses.

The choice of texture and appearance of the railing should not be in dissonance with the overall ensemble of the building.

Concrete railings are often installed in combination with balusters - supporting elements that perform supporting and decorative functions at the same time. nine0003

Compared to other materials, concrete is strong, wear-resistant, and its monolithic structure prevents destruction. The plasticity of concrete allows you to create any form, but working with it is much more difficult (compared to plastic). Drying of the finished fence requires sufficient time.

The technical requirements for the product are the same as for other materials - direct load from 100 kg/m, eliminating injury to the skin or clothing, smooth texture. The handrail itself, which is assembled from separate parts, must be perfectly even - the joints are adjusted, and the corners are smoothed as much as possible. nine0003

Made of stone

Stone has always been solid and durable. However, working with this material is quite difficult. Due to its strength, it requires sufficient effort in processing and installation. Stone fences will look good as an element of the decor of an expensive house, finished with the appropriate material, they will add solemnity and monumentality to the exterior.

The most commonly used porch railings are granite, marble or sandstone. These materials are distinguished by high strength, wear resistance, environmental friendliness, and excellent appearance. Color solutions can also be quite diverse. nine0003

Artificial stone can be a good alternative to natural materials. It is cheaper in price, easier to process and install, but somewhat inferior to its natural counterpart in terms of durability. Outwardly, it is almost indistinguishable from the original.

Advantages of artificial stone:

The stone handrail can also be combined with a wrought iron frame to add a touch of elegance to the railing design.

Assembly of the structure

It is possible to install the railing yourself if the structure is simple enough and the materials do not require special processing. You can use the material that is left over from the construction of the house, this will save money and time, and the railings will be guaranteed to be made in the same style with the building.

The simplest is the installation of a wooden fence, consisting of two support posts, between which a handrail is attached.

If the requirements for the design of the porch are quite serious, it is necessary to think over the design in detail, purchase all the materials and order the parts necessary for additional processing (for example, forged decor).

Regardless of the material, when installing the railing structure, a certain stage is observed:

  1. The surface of the porch must be ready for the installation of railings - steps are leveled, cracks and bulges are rubbed. nine0041
  2. The installation begins with the installation of support posts, which act as load-bearing elements. They are slightly larger than the balusters. These elements must be well fixed, because it is on them that the main load will be. The method of fixing the supports depends on the material - they can be welded if it is metal, or fixed with a dowel - a wooden or metal anchor.
  3. Balusters are attached directly to the steps at a distance of 20 centimeters from each other and are also fixed with dowels. nine0041
  4. Using a rope stretched between the supports, the verticality of the balusters is checked, after which the handrail itself is laid. It is fixed with dowels or screws.
  5. The final step will be the application of a protective coating or paint, if this is required by technology.

It is not recommended to use nails during installation - they tend to loosen over time, which will lead to a violation of the integrity of the structure. It is also necessary to avoid the formation of gaps at the joints - at the end of the work they can be puttied. nine0003

This process can be visualized in the following video:

Design options

There is no universal railing option that would suit any building, any style of decoration. In order for the composition to be complete, the style of the porch design must match the exterior of the house. The price also plays an important role, which imposes certain restrictions on the design of fences:

Do not forget that the porch and its frame is the face of the house and requires no less attention than all other building elements. Design in the same style, attention to the quality of materials and construction will help to design a porch that will last a long time.

Photo gallery of porch railings

The photo below shows various options for such designs:

How to decorate the porch of a private house - 80 photos, beautiful design ideas

The porch is an obligatory element of the entrance part of the building and its "business card". The desire to decorate your own home, taking into account fashion trends and personal taste preferences, is inherent in almost everyone. The design of the porch of a private house should emphasize the integrity of the entire structure and make it more attractive. There are many options for decorating the entrance part of the building, so we suggest that you consider the most popular and interesting of them.

The most popular option is the installation of wooden decking on the porch. In most cases, such structures are made from pine wood, as the most inexpensive and popular natural raw material. If the porch is properly sealed, varnished and painted, it will look attractive for many years. nine0003

This is an up-to-date way of decorating a country-style façade. This design can be supplemented with wood-based porch decor, which will bring the atmosphere of a country cottage. Wood can be supplemented with stone, which is relevant not only for country style. In suburban private buildings, these two materials look quite harmonious together and are suitable for finishing scaffolds, doors and use as a decor.

Concrete is considered to be a versatile material that is inexpensive and reliable, and is also ideal for making a porch. This is a monolithic structure that will not begin to stagger over time, which is sometimes inherent in wooden products. In addition, it can be easily repaired and decorated with any decor. Do not forget that the concrete porch can be of various shapes, which will not particularly affect the price and the amount of time to complete the task. nine0003

Concrete structures can be decorated with tiles, such as clinker tiles. There are options trimmed with stone, and also painted with paint, and processed with other materials. In modern buildings with a facade of wood, brick or siding, a concrete porch can be left without additional coverage. This allows you to emphasize the features of the texture of the walls and their colors.

A brick porch is a more expensive option than the previous ones, but it also looks attractive and is considered a fairly reliable solution for decorating a house. Installation of the structure may take more time and require serious effort, but in the future the work will pay off with a vengeance, since it does not require additional care. nine0003

Often, a brick porch has a concrete base or a step covering based on other materials. There are options with laying tiles on the steps. It looks at home, inspires confidence and adds reliability to the building. But be careful, as any step covering you choose should not be slippery, otherwise this area will become potentially dangerous in the cold season due to snow and ice.

Natural stone is considered a classic option. Such raw materials are durable, presentable and durable, which is especially important. There are many varieties of stone, with some suitable for the base, and a number of others for creating decorative elements (and the raw materials for making the base will cost much more). Although, in general, all types of stone are able to withstand adverse weather conditions, and it will not require additional maintenance for a long time. nine0003

If the building is stone, then you can fit a porch with columns into the overall structure. Natural stone can be combined with monumental elements. Such a composition will look harmonious.

Usually, when talking about a forged or metal porch, they mean decorative parts of the structure - canopies, railings, steps, which are made on the basis of metal. But sometimes a completely metal porch is installed in a private house.

The main advantage that such designs have is increased strength and durability. However, you will have to constantly paint and treat the porch so that it does not deteriorate due to corrosion. Moreover, the metal floor will be cold enough, so it is not suitable for arranging a terrace. The latter option requires a concrete base or wood flooring on a metal base. nine0003

In most cases, canopies continue the roof and, together with the porch, perform an important function of protection from the effects of precipitation and solar radiation. This is a great option for arranging a comfortable entrance to the building.

If the building has architectural features that would not allow a canopy over the main entrance, even a small one, replace it with a canopy. Such a detail will not only partially perform the functions of a canopy, but will also be able to diversify the appearance of the building, and if you choose the product correctly or make it in an original way, it will become a real decoration of the exterior. nine0003

Even a small canopy can make the entrance to a private house more presentable. The shade from it can protect from the sun, as well as save from streams of water during rain, if you open the doors or wait for the car.

If the house has a high foundation and you can install steps that will lead to the main entrance, the installation of railings will be relevant. This design will make the exterior of the building appear safer and more stable, and will also serve a very specific function and help residents and visitors enter the house in bad weather. nine0003

This is the traditional design of the entrance to the building. It can be combined with a canopy or canopy, as well as additionally decorated with various designs to make the composition look complete.

If the area in front of the front door allows you to organize a place to relax, then you can equip an open or closed terrace. There may be a swing for children on it, or it will simply be a place for a comfortable stay near the house, and an opportunity to protect yourself from bad weather conditions. nine0003

Spacious terraces can be equipped with garden furniture for comfortable relaxation, pots with plants, and as a result get an attractive appearance of the building and a cozy atmosphere. Install pendant lights or place outdoor wall lights nearby. They will be able to illuminate the approach to the porch, for example, the paths leading to the building.

If the building has a high foundation, it is necessary to form a porch using steps. As a result, a terrace with a seating area will be at a certain elevation, when compared with ground level. Frame steps and flooring with stone or concrete, treated wood, or brick to provide protection from moisture or insects. nine0003

Glazed terrace is a must for those who live in cold climates. Compared to other options, this one is much more difficult to design. But it is this type of porch that can be considered the most functional.

When designing the design, you can choose from different materials or options for arranging the entrance to the house. However, when choosing a design, remember that the porch is an important architectural element, so it should match the architectural style of the house.

Porch - do-it-yourself building ideas.

120 photos of the best projects of our time

Many future owners of a country house, which is just under construction, do not pay much attention to the porch, and some even forget to build it. Someone simply did not provide for it, for others it may not be necessary to install it. However, in fact, the porch in a suburban house is a very important and complex architectural addition to the house, in addition, it can also have an aesthetic function, thereby indicating the elegance and originality of the building as a whole.

Therefore, its construction must be taken with all seriousness and responsibility, since it is from it that the entrance to the house begins. At the same time, most owners of their houses are trying to equip the facade of their house in such a way that everyone around would like it, the same applies to all extensions to the house.

It should be noted that from the point of view of practicality and convenience of construction, it is desirable to build it last, and if possible not together with the house, but separately. nine0003

The fact is that building a porch with your own hands will not be very difficult, almost anyone who understands at least a little about construction can handle this work. At the same time, in the process of adding to the house, you can come up with various options for the structure right on the go or improvise a little.

Material selection

Almost any available building material can be used as the base material for a porch. As a rule, the main material for this extension is still concrete. However, you can use other materials such as: brick, stone, wood, forged metal. nine0003

In this case, brick is not recommended, as it is very exposed to precipitation and temperature, which will eventually lead to its destruction, cracks will be visible on the brick and chips will form, and this will spoil the appearance of the facade.

But porch options using stone or wrought iron are a very complex and expensive option. Therefore, the most optimal construction option is made of concrete. nine0003

At the same time, it can be built in various shapes and types, after which, if desired, you can make a special lining to imitate stone or brick, and additionally embellish with various elements of forged metal. This option is the most acceptable both in terms of material choice and in terms of money.

So, let's look at the most common porch designs.

Open platform with steps

This is the simplest version of the construction of such an extension. There is practically nothing complicated here, except to properly mount the steps for the porch. A canopy is not provided for this design, so this option is the fastest in terms of construction.

Platform with closed walls

As a rule, this type is installed on low elevations, where special fences with railings prevent falls. At the same time, the fences and railings themselves can perform not only a protective function, but also a decorative one. nine0003

Closed porch

This type is primarily suitable for large and spacious country houses, where it is possible to make one part as a veranda, and the second directly at the entrance to the house, while the area itself should be very extensive.

This option is very convenient, since you can receive guests both in its closed part, for example, if the weather is bad outside, and in the air. Therefore, a closed porch is a very interesting option. nine0003

Building a wooden porch

Before you start building a porch to the front of the building, you need to have a clear plan and drawing of the building. At the same time, the drawing must indicate all the necessary parameters and dimensions of the structure, as well as the structure of the steps, their height and width, the parameters of handrails and railings. You should not forget about what you want to see in the end, this is a very important point.

Next, you need to decide on the foundation and its dimensions. After all, the durability of the structure and its reliability largely depend on a high-quality and reliable foundation. nine0003

As a rule, the choice of foundation is influenced by a number of important factors, such as: the presence of groundwater in the soil, the terrain (hills, elevations). After that, you can get to work.

In the process of working for a wooden porch, it is recommended to use hardwood beams so that it lasts a long service life.

Equally important is the staircase, which is the link between the facade of the building and the porch. It is necessary to choose the method of constructing a staircase from the structural features of the facade of the house, here the choice is very large. nine0003

Construction of a metal porch

Metal porch is mainly made for cottages or small private houses. This type of porch is the most popular and popular, second only to wood. Knowing all the required dimensions, such a porch can be pre-welded, and then the finished structure can be delivered directly to its destination.

If there are no decorative elements made of forged metal in this design, then its cost will be much less than that of concrete or wood. Therefore, although the wrought iron porch is very beautiful and has a stunning view, it is quite expensive and also very difficult to install. nine0003

For such a porch, it is allowed to lay the foundation of a lighter version, since the metal is a rather elastic material, therefore, the impact on its soil does not have any effect. And in some cases, for such a design, the foundation is completely unnecessary.

Steps for this design can be made entirely of metal, or you can additionally make a wooden step, it all depends on your fantasy and imagination.

Concrete porch construction

The construction of the porch in this version is rather troublesome and complicated. It is characterized by the presence of a solid and reliable foundation, so it can stand as long as the house itself.

At the same time, an important feature in the structure of this type of porch is that inside the formwork it is necessary to reinforce the steps with reinforcement. And in general, it is necessary to make a frame from reinforcement in the image of the structure, all this is necessary for a more reliable structure. nine0003

It is recommended to pour concrete in one step, but it is very difficult, therefore pouring with short breaks is allowed. This means that when the first pour was poured and slightly dried up, then you can gradually pour further concrete mortar. And so to the top of the formwork.

Canopy and canopy

The canopy above the porch is very convenient and practical in terms of the safety of the house structure. Most often, a porch with a canopy serves as protection from the weather, at the same time, it can also perform a decorative function. nine0003

As a rule, the hanging canopy can be mounted on almost any part of the wall or surface of the facade of the house, with the exception of frame or prefabricated panel walls.

Almost every canopy, with the exception of a gable or arched canopy, must be equipped with a special gutter that diverts the water stack to the side.

Thus, choosing a porch to your taste is not as easy as it seems. The whole difficulty lies in the variety of choices and in the cost. If you have any difficulties with the choice, you can familiarize yourself and see the bright and colorful photos of the porch, maybe you will find something for yourself. nine0003

Stainless steel porch railing. Photo Link to main publication

See also

Wooden Porch Railing

Contents

It is the porch that draws the attention of guests first of all, so its design should be approached with special attention . One of the important stages in the construction of the porch is the creation of the railing. If they are built incorrectly, it can ruin the look of the house.

Why railings are needed

The main purpose of the described structures is to ensure the safety of movement on the stairs. They are also a support that allows you to safely move around the porch when it is, for example, slippery.

But the railing also has a decorative function. Without them, the porch looks unsafe and less comfortable. Thanks to this design, you can modify the style of the house and make it more beautiful. When creating railings, wood and metal are often used, but sometimes stone is also used. nine0003

Porch railing specifications

The main parameter to pay attention to is the height. The choice of a specific figure depends on the preferences of the residents of a particular house. If all family members are tall, you can not follow the standard sizes and make the fence with your own hands a little higher.

The average height is 90 cm. It is these wooden railings that are usually comfortable for most adults. If the family has small children, it is worth taking care of creating additional supports, the height of which should be about 50 cm. After the child grows up, these elements can be easily removed. The strength of the railing is also of great importance. This design must withstand the weight of an adult. Otherwise, the railing will be dangerous. nine0003

Important! If there are children in the family, it is worth making railings without horizontal elements, along which it is convenient to climb up.

Wood railing features

Wood is the traditional material from which such structures are made. It is durable and aesthetically pleasing and is suitable for houses made of various materials. If wood was used for the exterior of the house, then wooden porch railings are the best option.

If you want to make the railing more durable with your own hands, a metal frame is created, which is then decorated with wood. The tree has the following characteristics:

Aesthetics. This material lends itself well to processing, so various designs can be made from it. If you use the woodcarving technique, you can create beautiful and original railings.

Easy to install. If you wish, you can install a wooden railing yourself without professional tools and experience. For this work, the simplest tools are used.

Environmentally friendly. Wood does not affect the body in any way and is therefore a safe material. nine0003

Security. If there are small children in the house, it is worth choosing a railing made of wood, since in case of an accidental impact on them, the body will not receive serious damage. At the same time, touching the railing will not cause discomfort, since even under the influence of temperatures it does not become too cold or hot.

But the tree also has disadvantages, which include the fragility of the material. To protect the railing from moisture and other adverse factors, it is worth treating them with special compounds. It is also important to remember that for comfortable use of the railings, they should be treated so that when the skin of the hands touches the railings, they are not injured. In the photo you can see the railing, made in various styles, which will allow you to choose the most acceptable option. nine0003

Railing installation

Do-it-yourself railing installation can be done by yourself even without any experience in construction. To create a railing, you can use the materials that remained after the construction of the house. This will save you money and time looking for other materials. In this case, the railing will be created in the same style as the house.

The simplest design is the guardrail, which consists of several support posts and a horizontal rail. But such a product is not suitable for all houses, so before building it is worth choosing a certain style. When creating a railing, you should follow a certain sequence of actions:

  1. Porch preparation. The surface on which the railing will be installed must be prepared and leveled. If this is not done, the design being created will be less reliable.
  2. Installation of support posts. These elements should be slightly higher than the balusters and have a greater thickness. They should be well fixed and fastened together. The easiest way to secure is to use nails. But it is better to make the bases of the supports with your own hands with spikes and apply glue to them, and fix the structure with self-tapping screws. To make balusters, it is enough to process the bars with a section of 50x50 mm. nine0004
  3. Do-it-yourself installation of balusters. These elements are also fixed with screws and glue. When installing them, pull the cord so that they are at the same level.
  4. Painting. After installing the railing, it remains only to paint the material and apply protective compounds.

In order not to make a mistake during the creation of the structure, you should first look at the photos that show the construction process.

Should I paint my porch railing

Since wood is a vulnerable material, protective compounds must be applied to protect it. With proper care, the tree can serve for quite a long time and not collapse under the influence of moisture. Paint is also used as a decorative coating, thanks to which you can almost completely change the look of the porch.

In addition, the paint promotes the manifestation of the natural structure of the material. Such compositions also prevent the occurrence of mold. nine0003

Tools and materials for painting railings

In order to paint railings, you need the following tools:

Also for painting you will need wood filler, which is necessary to seal small cracks in the material. A primer used to increase adhesion and create a protective layer. The main consumable material is paint, the choice of which should be approached very carefully. To determine which composition is best suited for staining, it is worth considering several types of paints. nine0003

Types of paints for wood

For painting wood exposed to weather conditions, special compositions are used, divided into several types:

Oil paints contain linseed or hemp oil, which is well absorbed into the wood. Previously, it was precisely such compositions that were used to paint wooden surfaces, since they protect the material well. But gradually the popularity of such compounds has decreased, as they dry for a long time and emit a pungent odor. nine0003

Water-based paint, when applied, practically does not emit odor and well protects wood from exposure to sunlight. But the disadvantage of such compositions is the low resistance to physical impact. That is why it is worth using such railing paint only if the structure is installed as a decorative element of the porch.

Alkyds dry faster than other types and are therefore quite popular. At the same time, such paint is resistant to mechanical stress and protects against moisture. nine0003

Reactive compounds are made from pigment resin and hardener. Before painting a tree, these elements must be mixed. As a result of the reaction between them, a protective film of increased hardness is formed on the surface. The only drawback of such paints is their high price.

How to choose a porch paint

In order for the paint to withstand the impact of the external environment, it is worth making a choice based on the following parameters:

In order to keep the paint for a long time, it is worth using varnishes and other protective compounds for wood. If you do all the steps described, the railing on the porch will be not only reliable, but also beautiful.

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