Porch Repair in Leander, TX: Fix It Before It Becomes a Hazard

What to Know About Porch Repair in Leander

Leander is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Austin area, with many new subdivisions on rocky ground. West of I-35, Austin sits on Hill Country limestone that often needs a rock auger to set posts; east of I-35, Blackland Prairie clay swells and shrinks. Round Rock, Pflugerville, Leander, Cedar Park, Georgetown and Hutto have grown rapidly, so many homes have builder-installed fences reaching the end of their first life.

• Many newer homes have small patios that can be extended into covered porches.
• Covered porches usually need a building permit.

Sagging Steps and Stairs

Steps that rock or sound hollow usually have a rotted stringer underneath. Replacing it is a smaller job than it looks.

Replacing Worn Screens and Doors

Rescreening one panel at a time as they wear out keeps a screened porch in good shape without a big project.

Rotted Porch Floorboards in Leander

Check the boards nearest the steps and the outer edge first; that's where rain splashes and puddles most.

Failing Posts, Columns and Beams

Porch columns rot at the base where water collects, and beams sag when posts settle. Repairs involve temporarily supporting the roof, replacing the post or beam and setting it on a proper base that keeps it off wet concrete.

Termite Damage

Keeping wood off the soil and fixing drainage makes the porch less attractive to termites.

Signs It's Time to Call in Leander

• Columns rotted at the base
• A dip in the porch roofline
• Soft or spongy porch boards
• Sagging or uneven steps

Before You Call

• Note whether the porch is covered or open
• Check for signs of termites
• Photograph problem areas
• Keep people off unsafe steps

Porch Questions From Leander Homeowners