How to Replace a Rotting Post

Keep that porch or patio roof over your head with this repair project.

Don't let the rot spread further-give your roof the support it needs with these step-by-step instructions.

Materials and Tools:

column jack
power drill
nut driver
scrap lumber
circular saw
levels
pry bar
wrench
hammer
folding rule
carpenter's square
hacksaw
rasp
glove
safety glasses
dust mask
pressure-treated 4-by-4-inch support post, cut to length
upper and lower brackets
galvanized nails
washers and lag screws

Steps:

1. Drill out rivets to remove the existing downspout.

2. Set up a column jack next to the existing post. Place scraps of wood at the base and top of the jack. Before lifting, use a magnetic level to make sure the jack is perpendicular or plumb.

3. Use an adjustable wrench to raise the roof until it's level.

4. Pry the existing post away from the roof and cut through the nails with a hacksaw.

5. If the original base plate is set in concrete, use an elevated base plate to avoid digging out and re-pouring the concrete. The new plate fits inside the original and raises the base of your new post off the ground without tearing up your patio.

6. Use a folding rule to measure the distance between the new base plate and the roof.

7. Wearing eye protection and a dust mask, cut a new 4-by-4 post with a circular saw.

8. Smooth the cut edge of your new post with a rasp.

9. Attach new base plate to the bottom of the post, and attach the top bracket to the top. Slide the post into position, and use a hammer and a scrap piece of wood to knock the bottom of the post into the old bracket.

10. Secure the post at the top by driving in galvanized nails.

11. Drill pilot holes at the base and use lag screws and a washer to connect the post to the existing base plate.

12. Replace the downspout and drain system.

Next Up

How to Get Rid of Thrips

Thrips can damage your plants before you even know they’re there. Here’s how to spot thrips on plants and get rid of them.

How to Repair a Screen in a Door or Window Frame

Buying new door or window screens can be expensive. Save money by learning how to repair a screen in an existing frame.

How to Sharpen a Knife

Learning to sharpen your knives at home will keep them razor-sharp, making them safer and easier to use.

How to Winterize Your Lawn

Learn what to do to prepare your lawn for winter. Taking the right steps in fall prepares your grass for quick spring greening.

6 Ways to Humidify Your House (Without a Humidifier)

During the winter months, low humidity in your home can become an issue, leading to worsening allergies, dry skin, static electricity and increased susceptibility to colds and flu. Find ways to add moisture to the air without the expense of buying and running a humidifier.

How to Drain a Water Heater

Extend your water heater's life span by draining the tank annually to remove any sediment that may have built up.

How to Clean and Repair Gutters

Clogged gutters can cause damage to your roof, cause your basement to flood, and lead to problems that can destroy landscaping and undermine your home’s foundation. Learn how to clean your gutters at least twice yearly — in the spring and fall — to prevent this damage.

10 Questions We Have for Mercury Stardust, TikTok's Famous 'Trans Handy Ma'am'

Mercury Stardust is a popular TikTok creator, author, speaker, LGBTQIA+ advocate and burlesque performer who wants renters and homeowners alike to feel empowered wherever they call home. Order her new book, Safe and Sound: A Renter-Friendly Guide to Home Repair, and find out what to keep in your tool kit and see which HGTV personality she would invite to perform in a burlesque show.

How to Replace a Window

When it's time to replace an outdated, inefficient window, it can be hard to know where to start, so we’ve got everything you need to know to get the job done.

How to Repair Drywall

A well-placed piece of art may be the quickest way to disguise a hole in your wall. But for a professional fix, follow our tips on how to patch a hole in drywall.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.