Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - Front Porch Help (Banisters and balusters)
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smile1017
08-15-06, 12:22 PM
I am a newcomer that has gotten such good response that I have posed numerouse questions. This one concerns my from porch. The builders of the home built the roof and foundation about six feet from the front of the of the house. It makes a great front porch but I would like to improve the asthetics a little.
The first is some banisters to make the porch look more enclosed. What material would be best? There are brick facade coulumns that support the weight of the roof. How would I secure the banister to these columns? Is there an easy design that would allow for quick self installation (1 weekend) to prevent the mess from showing in the front of the house for too long.
I would like to change the sconce style light next to the front door to a hanging style light to have better feel when we sit in the front porch on cool summer evenings. What would be the best way to move the electrical and where can I find a good quality stylish (Mediterranean style) for this purpose?
Lastly I would like to install a prebuilt wall fountain there to provide some soothing noises. Is there a website with many affordable choices with good quality pumps?
Thanks for any assistance anyone can provide.
The first is some banisters to make the porch look more enclosed. What material would be best? There are brick facade coulumns that support the weight of the roof. How would I secure the banister to these columns? Is there an easy design that would allow for quick self installation (1 weekend) to prevent the mess from showing in the front of the house for too long.
I would like to change the sconce style light next to the front door to a hanging style light to have better feel when we sit in the front porch on cool summer evenings. What would be the best way to move the electrical and where can I find a good quality stylish (Mediterranean style) for this purpose?
Lastly I would like to install a prebuilt wall fountain there to provide some soothing noises. Is there a website with many affordable choices with good quality pumps?
Thanks for any assistance anyone can provide.
Wirepuller38
08-16-06, 07:14 AM
How many brick columns? Where are they located? Are there steps which would require a railing also?
smile1017
08-16-06, 02:26 PM
There are two brick columns one at the corner of the porch and one about three feet from the side of the house. It is to one side of the front walkway.
There are no stairs to contend with, just a front walkway that about 3 ft. across.
There are no stairs to contend with, just a front walkway that about 3 ft. across.
twelvepole
08-16-06, 04:12 PM
Check out available banisters and balusters at your local home center and mounting blocks. Masonry screws and brackets can be used for attachment. These should be rust proof.
smile1017
08-17-06, 10:47 AM
I was informed that those are not necessarily good quality wood. Someone told me to purchase cedar or cypress and cut simple banisters because the wood species are naturally water resistant. They said the extra cost would make up for not having to repaint every year. Water is a problem because it gets so hot in the summer here in SoCal that wood would definitely warp if there is even a little be of moisture that is retained from the summer.
Any thoughts on the best value in the sense of a naturally water resistant wood?
Any thoughts on the best value in the sense of a naturally water resistant wood?
lefty
08-18-06, 10:41 PM
If you are concerned about moisture/water problems, look into a composite railing system. You don't have to buy the entire system -- just the parts that you need. Another option would be vinyl.
It doesn't matter WHAT you use for wood, you are GOING to have some maintenance.
It doesn't matter WHAT you use for wood, you are GOING to have some maintenance.