Weekend Projects: Frame an Outside Entry With Porch Columns

Make your front entry grand by adding pilasters and molding around your door. It'll take less than a weekend and cost less than $100 in materials.

Filed under: How To, Doors

Building out the door adds curb appeal and architectural interest to the front porch.

Tools and Materials:
circular saw
chop saw or miter saw
nail gun and nails
paintbrushes
3/4” birch plywood
baseboard
dentil molding
skinny detail molding
wood glue

Steps:
1. Using a circular saw, cut out a strip of the siding on either side of the door the width you want the pilasters to be.

2. To build the pilasters, cut the plywood to the desired height. Cut both sides of the front piece at a 45-degree angle and only one side of the two side pieces of the pilaster. Make sure the three pieces fit together snugly and is tall enough for your door. Repeat process for the second pilaster.

3. If you’re not staining the wood, apply a coat of primer. This will help to protect the wood from moisture.

4. Assemble both pilasters. Use plenty of wood glue to seal the joint properly.

5. Paint or stain the pilasters.

6. Nail the pilasters into the trenches cut into the siding.