Dead Level Decks rebuilt this front porch staircase in Goshen, NY with new structural framing, cedar decking and railings, and a separate aluminum handrail. The permitted stair rebuild restored the front entrance while preserving the home’s traditional porch design. We also replaced eight rotting porch columns with new turned columns, adding plinths beneath each column to improve the detail where the wood meets the porch floor.
For this Goshen project, we rebuilt the front porch staircase and replaced eight porch columns. The goal was to create a comfortable safe entryway for the homeowner, guests, and delivery drivers.
The existing staircase was a common staircase design we see that worked well for the homeowner for many years, but had met the end of it's useful life and had to be brought up to code.
As with most of our projects, we handled all permitting and inspections for this project. Even though it's a small staircase, permits are required for any structural improvement, and help our clients ensure the work is being done to meet or exceed local codes and guidelines.
New staircase framing
We removed the existing stair assembly and rebuilt the staircase with new pressure-treated framing, structural connectors and a 2x riser for added strength. The previous deck only had 3 stringers, but we doubled that to 6 total stringers to create a solid feel with proper spacing for 5/4" decking boards to match their porch surface decking.
We custom cut all stair stringers to match the exact rise at the stair landing so that we maintain a consistent rise and run across each step. This makes for a comfortable staircase without any unexpected steps that are too tall or too short.
Cedar decking and stair railings
We installed cedar decking and cedar railings for this project, and a Azek PVC Riser. The natural wood gives the entrance a warm appearance that works well with the home’s white porch railings and turned columns, and can be painted or stained right away. The PVC offers a durable long lasting riser that can hold up to weather and resist rot at the bottom riser where it comes into contact with the ground.
For homeowners considering cedar, the appearance is a major part of its appeal. It does require some maintenance and finishing to keep it from Graying over time, but the wood has a higher quality grain and is a kiln dried product, that is less likely to shrink, warp, or crack over time.
A separate aluminum handrail
Alongside the cedar railing, we installed a dedicated aluminum handrail.
These components serve different purposes. The cedar railing defines the sides of the staircase, while the separate handrail provides a smaller, easier-to-grip surface for someone walking up or down the steps.
That is a useful detail at a front entrance, particularly when carrying groceries, helping a child, or wanting extra support on the stairs. It lets the staircase retain its traditional wood appearance while adding a practical feature for everyday use.
Eight new turned porch columns
We also removed and replaced eight rotting porch columns with new turned columns.
Matching the traditional column style mattered on this home. The repeated turned profiles are a prominent part of the long front porch, and the replacements preserve that familiar appearance.
The deterioration at the old column bottoms also shows why this work goes beyond curb appeal. Once wood has decayed, another coat of paint cannot restore it, and wood putty is not structural. Replacing the affected columns addresses the damaged material itself.
Plinths beneath the columns
Each replacement column received a plinth at the bottom. A plinth is the base beneath the column, creating a defined transition between the column and the porch floor.
This detail helps separate the column’s wood end from direct contact with the decking. The base is an important area to pay attention to because moisture can linger where exterior wood meets a horizontal surface.
Plinths are one part of a durable column installation. Keeping the surrounding area clear of debris and maintaining the exterior finish remain important, too.
The completed project brings together natural cedar stairs, white trim, traditional turned columns, and a practical aluminum handrail.
It is a good example of how focused exterior carpentry can make a substantial difference without replacing an entire porch.
Dead Level Decks builds and repairs porches, stairs, decks, and railings throughout Goshen, Warwick, and Orange County, NY. If your front entrance needs attention, contact us to discuss the condition of the existing structure and the right scope of work for your home.
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