3650 S. Broadmont DriveTucson, AZ 85713 (520) 624-6653 (800) 279-2278 (520) 624-3420 fax info@concrete-designs.com
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Tuscan Columns
COLUMN INSTALLATION
Handling the Columns
These columns are manufactured and shipped in halves and they are usually installed around structural supports. These concrete column halves can be extremely heavy so planning ahead and using tools will help the installation go safely and also help minimize damaging the columns during the install.One approach to handling columns is shown in this photo. Using some type of ropes, ties, or nylon straps and then a leverage support such as a piece of lumber or metal will help protect the surface and distribute the weight. The columns will come with threaded inserts but they are not meant for lifting the columns.
The surface of the concrete can be easily damaged. Placement of the straps and making sure they do not slide around is important or it is likely the finish will be damaged.
Many installations are in areas that forklifts and mechanical handling equipment can not access. This requires using trained people that will use care to safely move material into place.
Installing the Columns
The columns halves are intended to be decorative surrounds. They are not manufactured to be a structural element. The preferred installation includes both mechanical fastening around the structural post or to the structure and an adhesive which bonds the halves together.
For the mechanical fastening, it is suggested that a flexible strap or wire be used. This would be attached to the column half using the inserts that come imbedded in the columns. This is then wrapped around the structure or attached to the structure using bolts such as illustrated by the attached.
In some situations where access is limited, it may be more feasible to use eye bolts in the inserts and wire cinched tight at the top of the column. This approach can also be used in the absence of a structural support enabling the two halves to be mechanically tied together.
We recommend that a strong elastomeric adhesive, such as Sikaflex-1a, be used on the joint faces and be allowed to fully cure prior to the final finish work. The manufactures recommendations should be reviewed to insure that the adhesive is suitable and used according to how it is designed. Typically, the manufacturer recommends continuous coverage with a depth of 1/4" to 1/2", not to exceed 1/2". Be sure and keep the adhesive to the inside edge of the column in order to keep the exposed surface clean. See attached »
Once the adhesive is applied, the column halves should be secured together to allow the adhesive to cure. One method of securing the columns is illustrated. Do not use wire or anything that might damage the column finish.
No adhesive of any kind should be relied upon to hold the column halves together without mechanical ties also being used. All methods should conform to local building codes and safe, reliable construction practices. Solid grouting of column cavities generally is not recommended as it can complicate the installation, particularly if wood supports are used. The moisture in the grout tends to cause the wood to swell and columns to crack.
Once the adhesive has set, shims can be used to level the columns. Using levels on the columns and checking the lines on an assembly of columns will insure that the installation captures the architectural details to the fullest extent.For information on grouting, see the general installation guideline sheet.