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How to repair porch posts?

Hi guys,

looking at options on what I should do with these posts on my front porch.

They both have rust damage at the base of the posts, which has also disturbed the concrete surrounding it.

Was thinking of propping up the roof, getting a welder to cut above the rusted sections, and repair. Will this able be done or a full replacement of posts?

also, this how was built in the 1970s, so asbestos should be present.

cheers, Anthony

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JacobZ

Hi @ant89,

A warm welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community and thank you for your question about rectifying issues with your porch's steel posts.

Any alteration made to the porch would need to be assessed for suitability by an engineer, so using the same or better materials to repair what is there is likely your best option.

Your plan of having the roof structure propped up, the base of the posts cut out and new steel welded in place sounds like the best way to go as long as the steel used is the same thickness or thicker than that which was used in the past.

It's likely best to speak with a licenced Builder who works with steel as they will have the knowledge of best practices and the relevant building standards and may even weld themselves.

Allow me to tag @Nailbag, @Dave-1 and @Jewelleryrescue for their thoughts.

Jacob

Dave-1

Afternoon @ant89

Having old posts into concrete can be a pain, not always a super bad one 🙂

How far does the rust extend into the base of the post? We can see one that looks like the rust has gone too far but cant make out the other one.

Definently supporting the roof and cutting off the offending piece is doable, just not sure how good what is left of the post in the concrete is. If the rust has extended further down the steel that is in the concrete you could be back to fixing it again in 12 months time.

Id be seriously tempted to replace the footings with U type footings and new posts. I know there is a chance of abespestos and would factor that into the overall costs. Better to get it one then have the worry later on. Something like these Vuepro 90mm Stainless Steel Bolt Down Post Support - Each

I have repaired steel posts in concrete patios before for hand railings and even replaced some. It is possible which is the good news. It generally has come down to my ability and I havnt learnt any welding skills so thats why I hea dtowards other ways. Judge the state of the base of the post and go from there.

Dave

Nailbag

Hi @ant89

I am in the same camp as @JacobZ in gaining the advice from a registered builder or local draftsperson. the main pointy of concern is if the poles are load bearing as that will involve supporting the over-hanging eves so the poles can be removed and replaced. This process will involve disconnecting the metal balustrade from them. so it could be a great opportunity to update the this area.

Regards, Nailbag

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