How to fix rusted alfresco structural post?

[Sen123]

Alfresco structural post is rusted at the bottom. Not sure it is good idea to touch up or replace it. Please advise.

[EricL]

Hello @Sen123 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your alfresco post. It appears that the post footing has thoroughly rusted through. In this particular instance, I suggest engaging the services of a professional to replace the post itself. Because the post is part of a structure and is supporting weight, I don't think a welding patch will be sufficient to structurally support the weight of the alfresco. 

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1, @Nailbag and @AlanM52 for their recommendations.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[AlanM52 · Accepted solution]

Hi @Sen123,

Purchase a full stirrup like this one.

Download the Pryda post anchors guide.

Push the stirrup against the post to mark the cut-off line, repeat for the other sides.

With assistance brace the structure and double check things are stable and safe.

With assistance cut the post with angle grinder.

Slide the stirrup under and follow the post anchors guide.

Remove the brace.

Cheers

[Nailbag]

Hi @Sen123 

You could defineitly replace the lower section as per @AlanM52 excellent advice. Otherwise a treated pine H5 KD DAR GL8 Laminated posts at 88mm x 88mm looks like it would be a suitable timber replacement. It's what I just used to replace 3 rotted posts earlier this week. A 2.4m is around $65

Nailbag

[Dave-1]

Good Morning @Sen123 

I would follow @AlanM52's suggestion, tho maybe change the full stirrup to a half one depending on the type of post you replace it with. The post does look like its decided to quit the job sooner than later (Cant see if its been cut or rusted through on the other side)

I would support the roof while switching out the post for sure.

Dave

[Sen123]

Thanks @AlanM52 for the detailed instructions. I appreciate the clear step-by-step guidance. I’ll try to get some help with the bracing and give this fix a go.

[Sen123]

@AlanM52  - The post measures 40 × 40 mm. Could you please advise on the appropriate size of stirrup post anchor for this post?

[AlanM52]

@Sen123,

You can pack the post with a fence paling.

65 - 40 = 25 / 2 =12.5mm

Cut two to correct size and being treated they should last a long time.

Cheers

[Noyade]

Last night I thought that was a Tek screw on the right.

This morning it looks like a bolt and washer?

Could there be a concreted stirrup or upturned cap under the post?

Cheers.

[AlanM52]

G'day mate,

I did notice that but never posted this.

Cheers