When it comes to adding decorative elements to a Victorian-style home, porch brackets are an essential feature that can add character and charm to the exterior. Porch brackets are typically used to support the roof overhang and add visual interest to the porch area. They come in a variety of materials, including wood and PVC, with each having its own unique advantages and disadvantages.

BKT23X25 (Pictured On Front Porch Above)

While wood brackets have been a popular choice for many years, PVC brackets have become increasingly popular due to their superior durability and low maintenance requirements. PVC brackets are made from a synthetic plastic polymer called Polyvinyl Chloride, which makes them incredibly durable, water-proof, and insect-resistant. Unlike wood brackets, they will not rot, warp, or lose their shape over time, making them a long-lasting and cost-effective choice for homeowners.

Another advantage of PVC brackets is that they can be easily customized to match any design style or color scheme. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be painted or stained to match the color of the house. This versatility makes them a popular choice for homeowners who want to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to their home's exterior.

What Are Victorian Porch Brackets?

Victorian porch brackets are decorative elements used to support the roof of a porch. They are designed to add a touch of elegance to the exterior of a Victorian-style home. These brackets come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, including wood and PVC.

Wooden porch brackets are the traditional choice for homeowners who want to maintain the authenticity of their Victorian-style home. However, PVC brackets are becoming increasingly popular due to their durability and low maintenance requirements. PVC brackets are made from a synthetic material that is resistant to rot, insects, and weather damage. They are also lightweight and easy to install.

While wooden porch brackets may provide a more authentic look, they require regular maintenance to prevent rot and insect damage. Wooden brackets also tend to warp and lose their shape over time, which can compromise the structural integrity of the porch. PVC brackets, on the other hand, require very little maintenance and will not warp or lose their shape over time. They are also less likely to attract insects or develop rot.

Overall, PVC brackets are a superior choice for homeowners who want to add the elegance of Victorian porch brackets to their home without the hassle of regular maintenance. While wooden brackets may provide a more authentic look, the benefits of PVC brackets far outweigh any aesthetic differences.

Why Are Porch Brackets Important?

Porch brackets are an essential element of Victorian architecture. They are decorative and functional, providing support to the roof overhang and adding visual interest to the porch. Porch brackets come in a variety of materials, including wood and PVC. While wood has been a popular choice for porch brackets for many years, PVC brackets are becoming increasingly popular due to their superior qualities.

PVC brackets are resistant to moisture, mildew, rot, cracking, warping, and insects. They are made from a synthetic plastic polymer called Polyvinyl Chloride, which makes them incredibly durable and long-lasting. In contrast, wood brackets are susceptible to weather damage, insect infestation, and rot, which can cause them to deteriorate over time.

Another advantage of PVC brackets is their low maintenance requirements. They don't need to be painted or stained, and they can be easily cleaned with soap and water. In contrast, wood brackets require regular maintenance to prevent decay and insect damage.

Overall, PVC brackets are a superior choice for homeowners who want a durable and low-maintenance option for their porch brackets. While wood brackets have a traditional look and feel, PVC brackets offer many advantages that make them a smart choice for modern homeowners.

Wooden Porch Brackets vs. PVC Porch Brackets

Durability

When it comes to durability, PVC brackets have a clear advantage over wooden porch brackets. PVC is resistant to moisture, rot, and insect damage, which are all common problems that can affect wooden brackets. In addition, PVC brackets are not prone to warping or cracking, which can be a problem with wooden brackets over time. PVC brackets are also able to withstand extreme temperatures, which can cause wooden brackets to expand or contract, leading to damage.

Maintenance

Maintenance is another area where PVC brackets have an advantage over wooden brackets. Wooden brackets require regular maintenance, including painting or staining, to protect them from the elements. PVC brackets, on the other hand, require very little maintenance. They can be easily cleaned with soap and water, and they do not need to be painted or stained.

Cost

While wooden porch brackets may be less expensive initially, they can end up costing more in the long run due to the need for regular maintenance and replacement. PVC brackets are more expensive upfront, but they require very little maintenance and are more durable, which means they may end up being a more cost-effective option over time.

Aesthetics

One area where wooden porch brackets may have an advantage over PVC brackets is aesthetics. Wooden brackets have a natural beauty and warmth that can be difficult to replicate with PVC. However, PVC brackets come in a variety of styles and finishes that can mimic the look of wood, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Overall, when it comes to choosing between wooden porch brackets and PVC porch brackets, PVC is the superior option in terms of durability and maintenance. While wooden brackets may have an advantage in terms of aesthetics, PVC brackets come in a variety of styles and finishes that can mimic the look of wood, making them a great option for homeowners who want the look of wood without the maintenance and durability issues.

Advantages of PVC Porch Brackets

Durability

PVC porch brackets are known for their durability and longevity. Unlike wood porch brackets, PVC brackets are resistant to rot, insects, and weather damage. They are made from a high-quality PVC material that can withstand extreme temperatures and harsh weather conditions. PVC brackets are also less likely to crack, warp, or split over time, making them an ideal choice for homeowners who want a long-lasting and low-maintenance porch.

Maintenance

PVC porch brackets require minimal maintenance compared to wood brackets. Unlike wood, PVC brackets do not need to be painted or stained to maintain their appearance. They can be easily cleaned with soap and water, and they will not fade or discolor over time. PVC brackets are also resistant to moisture, which means they will not rot or attract insects. This makes them an excellent choice for homeowners who want a beautiful and low-maintenance porch.

Cost

PVC porch brackets are often less expensive than wood brackets. While the initial cost of PVC brackets may be slightly higher than wood brackets, the long-term cost savings are significant. PVC brackets require less maintenance and last longer than wood brackets, which means homeowners will save money on repairs and replacements over time. Additionally, PVC brackets are lightweight and easy to install, which can save homeowners money on installation costs.

Aesthetics

PVC porch brackets are available in a wide variety of styles and designs that can replicate the look of traditional wood brackets. They can be painted to match the color of the home, and they are available in different sizes and shapes to fit any porch design. PVC brackets are also lightweight, which makes them easier to install and less likely to damage the porch structure. Overall, PVC porch brackets offer an excellent combination of durability, low maintenance, cost-effectiveness, and aesthetic appeal.

Conclusion

After exploring the different types of Victorian porch brackets available, it is clear that PVC brackets are a superior option compared to wood brackets. PVC brackets offer several benefits, including:

• Resistance to rot, decay, and insect damage
• Low maintenance requirements, as they do not need to be painted or stained
• Ability to withstand extreme weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and heat
• Consistent quality and durability, as they are made from synthetic materials

While wood brackets may have a traditional and authentic look, they require more upkeep and can be susceptible to damage over time. PVC brackets, on the other hand, offer the same aesthetic appeal without the added maintenance or risk of deterioration.

Overall, when choosing Victorian porch brackets, it is important to consider the benefits of PVC brackets and the long-term cost savings they can provide.

To shop our vast selection of PVC porch brackets, head here. Below, you can see a few more of our most popular styles.

BKT14X15 (above)

BKT19X20 (above)