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.
