bump I also am wondering whether anyone knows where I can find some type of 0ff-white, or bone vinyl railing. I need to replace a portico w/railing and I really don't want white. Trim on the house is now some kind or cream color, and although I could repaint the trim white in the future, I'd rather not. Checked into phypon (?) which would need painting, and although I might consider doing that (DH wouldn't be too happy), the price is very high.

I'm doing a new porch railing down our brick stairs and have decided on the Premier white composite railing. To me, it looks the most like real painted wood than any of the other composites I saw (Timbertech, Trex, Fairway). I think the composites are more expensive than the vinyl but they look a lot better too, especially for the front of the house. I have no idea how well they hold up, but I'm willing to give it a try. I saw the Premier railing at 84 Lumber - not sure if Home Depot or Lowe's would carry it. I'm sure the Premier website would refer you to a local dealer in your area.

We're using composite which feels like some sort of metal. (Azek Trademark Reserve,www.bostoncedar.com) It was pretty expensive, (more than I spent on the decking and framing)but I wanted something solid that didnt shake and flex and was also maintenance free. The vinyl looks nice from a distance but seemed very flimsey to me.

kate, again, hire a tile expert (not a contractor who also does 'tile'). You need a lot of waterproofing expertise around that window. it's an old house. problems occur w/old homes when you start to peel back the layers. Get an expert, even if it means more money. They tiled around that tub in the 20's w/no problem, so tiling around it again shouldn't be an issue. not sure why mercury made that comment. Back in the day they didn't use cement board, they used lath/mud mortar for waterproofing. Old school tile guys still use that method. They know how to tile around cast iron tubs. Higher window placement with a ledge for plants! as for tiling the apron, normally the tiler firs out the exterior, puts on cement board, and tiles on that. if you decide to do this, I would consider doing a solid tub deck surround (like in the first pic). tile/grout is not waterproof, even w/sealing. do doing all of these small tiles around the tub edge means more chance that water may get through. Have a solid piece around the top is neater and easier to keep clean. you don't have to do marble, you can do a solid white quartz. love the black accents. Or you can do something like a wainscot trim. depending on the shape of your bathtub, it may be best to get a new one.