Exterior columns can be a defining architectural feature that frames your home and elevates its curb appeal. Choosing the perfect columns for your home exterior can turn a simple structure into a distinguished residence. However, there are many materials and styles available. The selection process requires carefully balanced consideration of aesthetics, durability, and upkeep.

Here’s how to go about choosing columns that will elevate your home’s curb appeal.

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Understanding Column Materials

The material you choose impacts the look of your columns and their maintenance requirements. Each option offers distinct advantages.

 

Wood

A classic and versatile choice, wood columns provide a warm, traditional look. Craft wood columns from several types of wood, such as pine, cedar, or redwood, and paint or stain them to match any design. Proper wood column maintenance is essential for them to remain structurally sound and visually appealing. To extend the life of your wood columns, you’ll want to conduct routine inspections, repaint or reseal, as needed, every few years.

New home with matching dark wood columns

New home with matching dark wood columns

Sustainability Benefits of Wood

Wood is a sustainable building material offering several environmental advantages, making it an excellent choice for exterior columns. As a renewable resource, responsibly harvested wood has a much lower environmental footprint compared to many manufactured building materials. Choosing wood for your exterior columns enhances the natural character of your home, and supports long-term sustainability in residential construction.

 

Fiberglass

For a low-maintenance alternative, fiberglass columns are an excellent option. They are lightweight, strong, and resistant to insects and moisture. These columns come in a variety of styles, with some even mimicking the visual traits of real wood.

Porch with craftsman style column made of fiberglass

Porch with craftsman style column made of fiberglass

 

Aluminum

Known for their strength and longevity, aluminum columns are a modern and practical choice. They are rustproof, insect-proof, and can support significant weight. Available in many finishes, aluminum columns are a durable option for contemporary homes and for homeowners who want minimal upkeep.

newly built modern farmhouse with metal roof, durable cladding, and aluminum porch columns

Newly built modern farmhouse with metal roof, durable cladding, and white aluminum porch columns

 

Matching Columns to Your Home’s Style

Once you have a material in mind, the next step is selecting a style that enhances your home’s architectural character.

 

Tuscan/Doric

These simple, smooth, and unfluted designs are staples of classical architecture.

Close up view of Tuscan column and capital

Close up view of Tuscan column and capital

They work well with Mediterranean, Neoclassical, or Colonial Revival homes, offering a timeless and sturdy presence.

Large porch with white Doric columns and capitals

Large porch with white Doric columns and capitals

 

Ionic/Corinthian

If you desire a more ornate and formal look, choose Ionic (scroll-like top) or Corinthian columns (ornate tops).

Mansion with Ionic columns

Mansion with Ionic columns

Their detailed capitals add a touch of elegance and sophistication, suitable for grand, stately homes.

Ornate Corinthian columns and capitals on southern style mansion

Ornate Corinthian columns on southern style mansion

 

Craftsman

Tapered, square columns are a hallmark of the Craftsman style.

Home with yellow front door and craftsman style porch and columns

Home with a craftsman style column made of wood

Sitting atop a stone or brick pier, they emphasize natural materials and sturdy, handcrafted design for bungalows and rustic-inspired homes.

Classic Craftsman style porch column with stone pier

Classic Craftsman style porch column with stone pier

 

Final Considerations Before You Buy

Before making your final decision, consider the scale and proportion. Size the columns appropriately for your porch or portico—not so large that they overwhelm the facade, but substantial enough to look supportive. Also, consider the climate in your area, as certain materials are better for temperature changes or moisture, which will affect your home maintenance to-do list.

Modern Farmhouse with charming porch with wooden columns

Modern Farmhouse with charming porch with wooden columns

Consult with a contractor or designer when choosing columns for your home exterior. They can help you select options that balance structural integrity with aesthetic grace, adding lasting value and beauty to your home. Thoughtful choices in column material and style will pay dividends in durability and curb appeal over the lifetime of your home.

Large porch with chairs accented with classic columns

Large porch with chairs, accented with classic columns

     

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