DuraClassic™ Columns Installation Instructions

1. Locate and mark the center point of the desired column location by using a plumb line.
2. Measure the opening from beam/soffit to floor at the previously marked location. If the column is too tall, shorten the column at the bottom of the shaft using an abrasive type blade. CAUTION: Because the shaft is the load bearing member, the shaft’s top and bottom edges must achieve full, even contact with both load bearing surfaces. Use a rasp or sander to level as required. NOTE:  For non-load bearing applications ensure that there is uniform even contact between deck and the full circumference of the column shaft.
3. Slip capital and base onto shaft, and secure column in place using metal “L” brackets. Brackets 1-1/2″ x 1-1/2″ should be used 6″ on center. It may be necessary to split the capital into halves to allow for attachment of the angle brackets to the beam/soffit. NOTE: Always drill clearance holes in column shaft and secure angle brackets with bolts. – DO NOT USE SCREWS – DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN.  ( See Figures 1 & 2 below.)
4. Apply high quality construction adhesive to top of capital and bottom of base/plinth.
5. Tip loosely assembled column into position and check level.
6. Align capital and base/plinth, and press into position. Wipe off any excess adhesive.
7. Pre-drill and countersink holes through the square members at the top and bottom of the column capital and base/plinth (abacus-top, plinth-bottom). Using non-corrosive fasteners, anchor the capital and base/plinth into the beam/soffit and floor. Fill countersunk fastener locations with auto body filler to obscure fastener locations.
8. Fill any nicks which occurred during installation with auto body filler. Fill the reveal between capital or base and shaft with backer rope and fill with auto body filler or caulk as required.
9. To paint column, prepare surface of capital, base/plinth and shaft by sanding with 120 grit or finer wet/dry sandpaper. Remove all dust and oils from the column before painting. Allow to dry thoroughly. Prime and finish paint with two coats of a high quality acrylic latex paint. Do not paint columns with paint with an L value of 56 or lower, with 0 being black. Follow paint manufacturer’s instructions.

Splitting Columns
DuraClassicTM column shafts, capitals and base/plinths may be ordered in halves for pilasters, and for reassembly. They also may be cut in the field with an abrasive type blade.

Reassembly of Split Columns

1. Locate & mark the center point of the desired column location by dropping a plumb line from the beam/soffit to the deck. Bolt metal angle brackets to column and beam/soffit and deck as above. Place an angle bracket on either side of the shaft seams at the top and bottom of the column.
2. Stand the first column half in the previously marked location, and check level. Be sure that the column shaft halves have complete and uniform contact with the deck.
3. Following adhesive manufacturers recommendations, secure the second column half under pressure to the first half using 3M-5200 marine polyester adhesive and tie down straps. Remove the excess adhesive from seam, and allow to dry. Fasten metal angle brackets to beam/soffit and floor.
4. Align and secure capital and base/plinth halves around column shaft under pressure using 3M-5200 adhesive. Wipe off excess, and allow to dry. Finish and feather out seam with auto body filler and sand smooth. Follow steps 7, 8 and 9 above to complete installation and finishing.

To locate your local distributor for 3M-5200 Marine Polyester Sealant Adhesive #6500 White.