Porch Columns

The word “porch” is derived from the Greek “portico,” which means a columned entry to a temple. So it is an appropriate acknowledgment of history to have porch post play an important architectural role in the design of a home’s front area. In the U.S. porches were popular from the 1840s, through World War II. It was with the advent of the suburbs that the backyard, the barbecue and the pool became the outdoor social focus of the home.

A covered front porch is the home’s transition to the outside world. It can play a social role as a meeting place, or a retreat from the noise and activity of the home’s interior. A columned front porch can ad an important architectural and functional element to both new homes and those under restoration.

Porch post are available today in a number of designs that help define the front of the house. The more elaborate choice might be a fluted porch column with decorative rings at the top and base, following one of the Roman styles. Round porch post are made that provide two architectural design choices. Tapered round post provide a formal touch. Traditional round post bring elegance as well. Square post are reminiscent of America’s rural tradition.

Many architectural components today are made from both wood and fiberglass. Porch post today are manufactured from both wood and synthetics. Fiberglass porch post have become a popular architectural alternative because they do not require the maintenance that outdoor wooden fixtures must have. Fiberglass porch post won’t crack, peel or warp.

•Porch post are an American tradition
•Define the home’s entry structure with porch post
•Incorporate porch post into the porch railing
•Choose from wood porch post or weatherproof fiberglass
•Tapered round porch post add elegance and a formal touch
•Complete a restored country home with square porch post