I am going to build a railing around my front Patio and install some new wooden, square columns. I have heard and read some article about moisture and drainage of assembled columns. The Patio is concrete and the is an over hang. The patio does not get standing water, but will get wet in the rain or when I water plants.
I cannot find the article that I had read, does anyone know where I could find one or have any good suggestions?
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Replies
Are the columns going to support a load above, or are they merely decorative? Either way, they should be built on a standoff to hold the material (if we're talking wood) above the patio to prevent capillary action from soaking up moisture and rotting the bottom of the column. Simpson makes standoffs for posts.
If these are to wrap around posts, then just cut the material a little short to lift it above the patio.
Hollow columns (or even those with a wrap of any type of material) should be vented both at the bottom and top to allow air to circulate, preventing the buildup of moisture.
Hope this helps.
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