Can I replace porch railings that are placed in a cement porch?

[Cory Mickler]

I would really like to update my SFR and put in a new railing around the porch since the current enclosure is rusting out but the fencing is cemented into the porch. can I remove the railings without damaging the porch or do I need to replaced the entire porch to cement new railings?

[Aaron Reynolds]

I'm assuming your existing railing is a metal one since it's rusting out.  If that's the case, it would be near impossible to remove the metal posts inside the concrete without damaging the porch.  You can cut them off then and have a surface mount railing system fabricated.  By surface mount I mean your railing posts would have a flat metal plate that would sit on the top of the concrete and be secured with anchors into the concrete.  A wood railing it also an option with similar type attachment to the concrete porch using Simpson brand post base anchors.  Not the most aesthetically pleasing but an option and more DIY friendly than metal railings.

Good luck.