Abstract: An elongated, light weight, maintenance free, hollow structural support post or column for supporting an overhanging roof segment in spaced relationship to a porch floor, for example. The post comprises a thin walled, generally rectangular plastic member containing a circular, metal tubular member therewithin, and spaced from the inner wall of the plastic member by plural elongated, plastic inserts press fit between the metal tubular member and inner wall of the rectangular plastic member. Additionally, the invention includes a pair of uniquely designed end base plates for anchoring the post to the overhanging structure and to the porch floor, where the base plates cooperate with the metal tubular member to prevent twisting of the post when maintained in a compressive or supporting mode.

Abstract: A system for determining the length and angle of stair railings, which system is disclosed in the form of a kit of parts and a method. The system includes a pair of vertically adjustable, simulated post housings to be temporarily positioned at the top and bottom of the stairs, where a first housing includes a pivotally mounted, extendable tape measure and angle scale. When the respective post housings are vertically adjusted to position a slidable base member at the projected height for the railing, the tape measure is then extended to the other post housing. While extended, the railing length and angle ends may be readily determined, and the information therefrom in preparing the railing.