our selection of standard or special-order capital:
Fiberglass capitals are standard on all exterior applications except in smaller sizes where polyurethane caps are sometimes used (Fig. 2-1).
Wood capitals are available for interior applications (Fig 2-2)
Composition capitals and plugs are available by special order (Fig. 2-3)
Shaft
Shafts should always be ordered for their specific application – interior or exterior. Remember that split shafts cannot be load bearing (Fig. 2-4)
Your selection of standard or special-order base & plinth set:
One-piece fiberglass bases with integrated plinths are standard with Turncraft Classic Columns. Polyurethane bases with integrated plinths are sometimes used in smaller sizes (Fig. 2-5)
Wood bases with wood plinths are standard on Turncraft Classic Interior Columns (Fig. 2-6)
Wood bases with separate aluminum plinths are available be special order (Fig. 2-7)
Recessed or Vented Soffit
Columns must always have adequate ventilation. This can be supplied in two (2) ways: a ventilated plinth (Fig. 2 -8) and soffit (Fig. 2-9), or a ventilated plinth and recessed soffit (Fig. 2-10).
This ventilation must be provided by the installing contractor. Turncraft will warranty only columns that have been installed with a ventilated plinth and recessed or ventilated soffit as shown.
Note: Aluminum plinths, poly urethane bases, or fiberglass bases must be used as a barrier against concrete or brick
Assembly Materials:
(Fig. 2-11) 2-1/2” corrosion-resistant drywall screws or finishing nails made of monel, silicon bronze, or stainless steel
6” non corrosive dowels or masonry plugs & screws
Highest-quality silicone caulk
Resourcinal wood adhesive (for split columns only)
Shellac
Flashing
Multiple cabinetmaker’s band clamps ( for split columns only)
Prefinishing Materials:
(Fig. 2-12)
100-grit sandpaper
Oil-based primer
Asphalt wood sealer
Columns shafts, capitals, and bases must be stored in a dry, well-ventilated area in moderate temperatures. Extreme wet or dry temperature varience must be avoided. Before exposure to weather, all wooden parts must be primed with a minimum of two (20 coats of quality oil-based of acrylic-latex primer and one (1) coat of paint. Do not use alcohol-base sealers.
Additionally, ashaltum should be applied a minimum of three (3) feet up the inside of the column shaft and the inside wall of a wooden base.
Before installing or befor storing outside, apply at least two (2) coats of a quality oil-base primer to inside and outside of ornamental capitals.
If you are using split bases, shafts, and capitals, be sure to mark each set so that you can keep the matching halves together later on during assembly.
When assembling split columns, always follow glue manufacturer’s instructions. We recommend Weldwood Resourcinal by Dap or Elmer’s Waterproof Resourcinal. Proper application includes preheating wood and workspace to 70° F and maintaining for 10 hours to avoid joint failure.
Note: If a composite ornamental capital has absorbed too much moisture or has become wet before painting, the primer coats will peel. In that event, the capital will resist further attempts to paint and will deteriorate.
