Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - porch columns

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thomas dooley
11-24-02, 11:18 AM
I have a 6" column supporting my porch overhang. I was wanting to know if it is possible to replace the 6" column with a 4" column and still have the stability and support which it has now?

Thank you in advace.

chfite
11-24-02, 08:06 PM
It won't be as strong, but it might work. It may look strange for your house. If the proportions for the columns are 6" for the style of your house, the 4" columns may look skinny.
Doug Aleshire
11-24-02, 08:21 PM
thomas dooley,

Issues of downszing is dependent on current load, (what's above it) what are the current columns made of and what is current beam structure above. How much of the porch roof is supported on these (distance out from main bearing wall) Normally, this is permissable but it's based upon current conditions.

I was going to recommend fiberglass columns, round or square. Unfortunately, they normally are 8" in diameter. They hold alot of weight! If interested;

http://www.superioraluminum.com/fiber_columns/fiber.asp

Hope this helps, let us know what you have now with some dimensions then I can provide answers.