From the breathtaking construction of the Parthenon to the stately elegance of Capitol Hill, Doric columns have been used in architecture throughout history. Their timeless beauty and appeal are marked by their simplicity, and they can now be found in modern times adorning grand homes across the country. Looking to Buy Doric Columns? Our Round […]
Porch How-To
Need your porch railing restoration approved by your local historical society? This is a common situation that we run into all the time. You need a porch restoration. The builder or homeowner must follow the rules of the historic district. They need permission for the new railing materials. This especially true for homes on the […]
Where to buy porch balusters? If we’re doing our job, finding beautiful architectural porch railings isn’t as difficult as it used to be. Browse our different sizes and styles, decide on what you like, and we’ll send them directly to your jobsite. Not sure how many you need, or have questions? No problem. We’re happy […]
High quality, architecturally correct exterior porch railing costs between $50 and $275 per linear foot for the materials. This of course covers a wide range of railings from the simple square wood balusters and smaller rail, up to our massive 12″ Poly Rail and 7 1/2″ wide Balusters used on the largest commercial projects. So […]
What is a Fluted Column? When we refer to a fluted column, we simply mean a column has round indentations running vertically the length of the shaft. Fluted columns add an element of detail and timeless beauty, and are often paired with ornamental capitals. Flutes actually were seen even before the Greek architecture it is […]
What is the difference between an entasis column and a straight tapered column? A straight tapered round column has a straight line between the bottom (larger) diameter and the top (smaller) diameter. This results in an unattractive look because it creates the illusion that the sides of the column are concave (rounded inward). A better, […]
This Exterior Balustrade Installation Instructions post is being put up to make it easier to find. Polyurethane Rail, Newel Posts, and Hardware provided by Western Spindle and used here have been independently tested for strength requirements mandated by the IBC and IRC codes. It has been found to meet and exceed the requirements. For Wood […]
Our Wood Porch Balustrade systems have undergone significant improvement in 2018. An improved Rail Installation Hardware Kit and a wider baluster capacity for the 4″ System are some of the features. And, the balustrades have been independently tested as Structural Guardrail. They have been found to exceed the strength requirements for IBC, IRC, and ASME […]
American Porch Wood Porch Rail Systems passed testing according to ASCE (American Society of Civil Engineers) building code guardrail requirements. An independent third party conducted porch balustrade structural testing on our 4″ Porch Rail System and 6″ Porch Rail System, which were installed on the testing fixture with our Rail Installation Kit, Newel Posts, and […]
For wood porch stairs and railings, we recommend the use of our Sloped Bottom Rail. This has a 15 degree slope to it, which helps shed water and prevent rot at the base of the spindles or balusters. We get asked all the time – “Should I use a flat bottom rail on the porch […]
