Re-assembly of Split Column Shafts

*Do not unband or separate halves until ready to install. Separate and install immediately to assure proper halves are kept together and minimize warping.

*Use appropriate adhesive for joining wood components. Type I or Type II for exterior use; Type II or Type III for interior use.

*Where possible, keep all seams to the side of the front view.

* A kit is included for fiberglass components.

Step 1

The two-piece wood plinth, base and cap are installed as the one-piece. Halves are joined with appropriate adhesive and non-corrosive fasteners. Fiberglass plinths, bases, and caps are re-assembled with plates and studs which are attached underneath. Seams in the aluminum plinth can be patched with body putty.

Step 2

Natural stresses in the wood can change the roundness of the shaft once it is unbanded. Be prepared to place blocking at a point opposite any area appearing elongated to pull the shaft into round while banding. Do not remove banding until ready to install. Reband as soon as possible.

Step 3

Use caulking beneath halves, then place them on base. Align the tongue and groove joints leaving a gap between halves. Completely cover the joints of both halves with appropriate adhesive; Type I and type II or Type II and type III. Carefully slide the halves together.

Step 4

Starting at either end, place steel banding every 6"-12" along the length of the shaft. Strips of carpet or similar material placed beneath the banding will help prevent damage. Tighten the banding with banding tensioner until you have tight joints with no gaps. Refer to item #2 if you experience any open joints. Check for complete contact all along the joint, then remove excess glue. Let stand for a minimum of 24 hours. Clamping time under cool or moist conditions may change, consult adhesive manufacturer for recommendations. Use blocking, adjust clamps or tap along joint seam with a rubber mallet to pull columns into round.

Step 5

Fill any gaps along seam of shaft, base and capital with high quality wood filler. Sand smooth with fine sandpaper, prime and seal with appropriate sealer.

Step 6

While unpacking the capitals, keep the halves matched as they were shipped. Number the halves as you unpack to keep them together. Seal the cut faces with shellac prior to gluing. Refer to composition capital installation for sealing information. Also, see instructions supplied with the capitals.

Step 7

Center the half capital on the column and secure by pre-drilling for fasteners through the capital into the shaft or existing structure. Countersink the fasteners.

Step 8

Apply adhesive to the first capital half after it is secured. Position the other half into place and secure by pre-drilling holes and countersinking fasteners. Also see instructions supplied with cap.

Step 9

Patch the seams with molding plaster or any pre-mixed plaster compound. Sand excess from joints when plaster is completely dry.

Step 10

Place flashing over the capital where it will be exposed to weather and bend the edges down for moisture protection. Caulk the seam above the capital at the beam and below at the shaft before applying primer and two coats of oil base paint. Always keep in mind these unfinished capitals cannot get wet before, during or after installation or they will deteriorate. See instructions supplied with capitals.