Turncraft Wood Columns

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CARE & FINISHING OF WOOD COLUMNS


STORAGE AND PREFINISHING
  1. Columns, caps and bases must be stored in a dry, well ventilated area.
  2. All wooden parts should be primed with a minimum of two coats of a quality acrylic latex primer.
  3. A rubber based roof coating or asphaltum should be applied to a minimum of three feet up the inside of the column and the inside wall of a wooden base.
INSTALLATION OF BASE

Note: Polyurethane bases or aluminum plinths (factory order) must be used as a barrier against concrete or brick.
  1. Mark the column in the side-to-side center of the soffit. Then drop a plumb line from that mark to the deck for column centerline.
  2. Secure base to deck by using screws at each corner that go through the base and into the deck.
TRIMMING COLUMN TO EXACT HEIGHT
  1. Measure the entire height of the overhang from the soffit to the deck. Allow for the space taken up by the cap and base.
  2. When trimming the top of the column, trim even with the top of the echinus (top moulding).
  3. Measure carefully from the top trim line along the edge of at least three staves around the circumference of the column to determine the bottom trim line.
By carefully following this procedure, you will ensure that the top and bottom cuts remain square to the centerline of the column.

Note: Trimmed ends must be resealed with at least two coats of a quality acrylic latex primer.


INSTALLATION OF CAP
  1. Predrill angled holes through column for drywall screws that will attach column to cap.
  2. Caulk the area where the cap and column meet. Center cap over column and attach with screws.
INSTALLING THE COLUMN
  1. If possible, raise the soffit to allow column/cap assembly to be correctly positioned under it.
  2. Predrill angled holes at bottom of column to facilitate screw attachment when positioned at base.
  3. Cover top surface of cap with flashing or caulking to protect it from moisture. (If using flashing, bend down over edge of cap.)
  4. Caulk the area where the base and column meet and lift column into position.
  5. Caulk the area where the soffit and cap meet and lower soffit onto column assembly.
  6. Drill holes through soffit at an angle that will direct screw into cap.
  7. In applications where you are unable to raise the soffit, use shims to lock the cap in place before securing with screws.
FINISHING
  1. All screw holes should be sealed with silicone caulking.
  2. All seams, scratches and nicks should be repaired with wood putty and sanded smooth.
  3. Immediately after installation, apply two top coats of quality acrylic latex paint to all exterior surfaces.
Note: Complete installation instructions supplied with each column.