Repairing a rotted post bottom typically costs $150-$900 per post, with an average near $425; replacing a structural porch or deck post can push the total above $1,500. The repair price depends on how high the rot reaches, whether the post supports a roof or deck, access, materials, and local labor rates.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom splice repair | $150 | $425 | $900 | Localized rot, sound upper post |
| Structural post replacement | $400 | $950 | $1,800 | Includes temporary support and installation |
| Rot-resistant replacement post | $100 | $250 | $600 | Material price only; size and species affect rate |
| Hourly carpenter labor | $50 | $85 | $125 | Per worker, before minimum charges |
What a rotted post bottom repair usually costs
A localized repair generally runs $150-$900 per post when rot is limited to the bottom few inches and the remaining wood is sound. A contractor may cut out the damaged area, install a treated-wood or composite splice, and seal the joint. Repairs to a decorative fence post often sit near the low end; a load-bearing porch post costs more because it must be supported safely.
Full replacement commonly costs $400-$1,800 per post, including removal and installation. Large timber posts, complicated trim, masonry bases, or a post carrying a roof may exceed that range. Assumptions: one accessible post, standard U.S. labor rates, no major framing damage, and ordinary treated lumber. A repair is usually least expensive when decay is confined to the base and the post remains structurally sound above it.
How carpentry, materials, and support work shape the quote
Contractor estimates usually combine labor with the post or splice material and temporary support. Equipment charges are more likely when a heavy roof beam or deck needs lifting. Disposal may be billed separately for several posts or bulky trim.
| Quote component | Typical price | What it covers | When it rises |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpentry labor | $150-$600 per post | Cutting, fitting, fastening, finish work | Complex trim or restricted access |
| Lumber and fasteners | $40-$250 per post | Treated lumber, splice, connectors | Oversized or specialty wood |
| Temporary support | $75-$300 | Jacks, bracing, load stabilization | Roof or deck carries significant weight |
| Removal and disposal | $25-$150 | Rotten wood and cleanup | Multiple posts or difficult hauling |
| Finish repair | $30-$250 | Caulk, paint, trim or stain | Large painted or detailed area |
A straightforward splice may take 2-4 labor hours; replacing a structural post can require 4-8 hours or more, especially if trim and railings must come off. Ask whether the quote includes temporary support, disposal, and repainting, since these can otherwise appear as separate charges.
Rot depth, post size, and load change repair pricing
Rot depth is a major price divider. If decay affects only 2-6 inches at the base, a splice may be practical; when damage extends 12 inches or more, or reaches a connection or beam, full replacement is often safer. Contractors may probe the wood and inspect the post-to-footing connection before recommending a scope.
Post dimensions also matter. A standard 4-by-4 fence post is less expensive to replace than a 6-by-6 porch support or a large decorative column. A post supporting a roof, balcony, or elevated deck requires careful temporary bracing, adding time and equipment. Rot in adjacent framing can add $200-$1,000 or more, depending on how much rim joist, decking, or trim must be opened and rebuilt. Damage beyond the visible base can turn a small splice into a structural repair.
Three common post repair quotes with different scopes
A contractor quote is easier to compare when it identifies post size, repair method, labor, and finish work. These examples represent ordinary jobs rather than fixed national prices.
| Job | Scope and labor | Estimated total |
|---|---|---|
| Fence post splice | One 4-by-4 post, 3 inches of rot, 2 labor hours, treated splice | $180-$350 |
| Porch post replacement | One 6-by-6 support, temporary bracing, 5 labor hours, basic paint touch-up | $650-$1,200 |
| Two column replacements | Two decorative posts, 8-12 crew hours, trim removal and disposal | $1,300-$2,600 |
Use the examples as scope comparisons, not as substitutes for an on-site assessment of load and hidden damage.
Repair splice or replace the entire post
A splice can cost $150-$900 when sound wood remains above the damaged section and a carpenter can make a secure joint. Replacement is more likely to be appropriate when rot reaches the post’s upper connection, the post is split or loose, or damage covers a substantial part of its length. For load-bearing supports, the contractor should explain how the repaired section transfers weight.
Replacing a standard post may cost $400-$1,000, while a large custom column or a post tied into complex porch trim can cost $1,000-$1,800 or more. Choosing pressure-treated or naturally rot-resistant material can reduce future exposure, but matching an existing painted or stained post may require extra finishing. The lowest upfront price is not necessarily the best value if the repair leaves decayed wood or a weak connection in place.
Regional labor rates and access affect the final bill
Carpentry rates in high-cost metro areas and coastal markets can run 15%-35% above a typical national estimate. Rural markets may be 5%-20% lower, but a long travel distance or a contractor’s minimum service charge can offset the difference. Older homes with narrow access, fragile siding, or built-in railings also take longer than open, easily reached posts.
Some contractors charge a minimum of $150-$300 for a small repair visit, even when the repair itself is brief. Emergency work after a storm may add 20%-50% for urgent scheduling. For a non-urgent repair, compare local quotes that list the same post size, support method, and finish scope.
Permit and inspection charges for structural post work
A simple fence post repair often does not need a permit, while replacing a porch or deck support may require approval depending on local rules and whether the work changes the structure. Permit charges commonly range from $50-$300 for small residential projects, but fees vary by city and job value. An inspection may be included or billed separately.
If the post supports a deck, porch roof, or balcony, confirm requirements with the local building department before work begins. Code upgrades, such as correcting an inadequate footing or connector, can add $100-$600 or more. Permit and footing costs should be separated from the carpentry price so the quote reflects the full project.
How to lower the bill without skipping structural repairs
Request an estimate that separates splice work, full replacement, finish work, and any adjacent rot. If several posts show similar damage, pricing them together can reduce repeated setup and travel charges. Removing movable furniture and clearing access may also save labor, but homeowners should not cut or jack a load-bearing post themselves.
Compare at least two written quotes using the same repair scope and materials. Avoid paying for full decorative replacement when only the base is damaged, but do not choose a splice solely because it is cheaper if decay reaches a critical connection. Controlling access and finish scope can trim the bill while leaving structural assessment and safe support to the contractor.