How to Replace Porch Posts

If you plan to clad a landing that has posts, your first step will be to support the awning and remove the posts to make way for the bluestone pavers. Once the stones are set, the posts can be trimmed and replaced. Here’s how.

Step 1

Remove the Posts

For a lightweight awning, simple 2x6s will suffice as supports. First, cut the bottom ends at a 45-degree angle so that they can sit flat on the ground when you run the boards on a diagonal to prop up the awning. Screw a scrap 2×4 beneath each one to act as a foot. Mark a 45-degree cutline on the other end of each board, parallel with the foot, then make another mark perpendicular to that one so that you get a 90-degree notch that will sit against the awning’s fascia. Cut the notches with a jigsaw. Prop the boards in place, and secure each one by driving a screw through its front edge and into the awning’s fascia. Drive a stake into the ground in front of each footplate to keep it from slipping. Next, outline the post locations on the awning and remove the posts.

Step 2

Mark the Posts’ Locations

Once the landing stones have had time to set, drop a plumb bob from the center of each post location on the awning to determine where each post should be on the landing. Use a combination square to draw two perpendicular lines through the mark, aligned with the front and sides of the landing.

Our replacement posts came with installation brackets that required us to lift the awning ¼ inch. To do so, we replaced our 2×6 supports with jack posts, which can be found at most local home centers. They allow you to carefully control the lifting.

Find Jack Posts

Step 3

Install the Brackets

Center the installation brackets inside the post outline on the awning and over the marks on the landing, and screw them in place. For the landing brackets, use self-tapping concrete screws.

Step 4

Reinstall the Posts

Tip the posts into place and add trim as desired. Finally, remove the 2×6 supports or jack posts, and admire your work.