A proper repair involves removing the column, opening the joints a bit further and blowing them clean and dry. Then glue is inserted and strap clamps are used to re-clamp the column to its original dimensions.
Why don't they paint fiberglass columns?
What most manufacturers omit or don't consider is that fiberglass columns have a higher expansion rate than concrete and other water-based materials. The columns expand and contract and so, naturally, the paint used should "breathe" with the columns.
Can you use acetone on fiberglass columns?
Mineral spirits may be used but do not use acetone on fiberglass columns. Caulking: Caulk the gap between the cap/base and the shaft using a high quality, acrylic latex sealant. Similarly, fill any screw holes or cavities (putty or bondo may be used instead).
How to Repair Damaged fiberglass sheets?
This includes damage like punctures or screw holes. If the damage is this small, you can proceed with a simple repair with epoxy and no additional fiberglass sheeting. Push around the damaged area to feel for weakness in the fiberglass. A small spot of damage on the surface can actually be larger underneath.
How do you clean a fiberglass water column?
Cleaning Dust/Dirt: Clean all components with a damp cloth or a tack cloth. Areas with dirt might require washing with a solution of soap and water. Rinse off any soap and allow the column to dry. Do not spray the column with water prior to installation. Mineral spirits may be used but do not use acetone on fiberglass columns.
How do you fix a cracked porch column?
3:437:27How to Repair a Rotted Porch Post | Ask This Old House - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd i also like the fact that i have a lot more surface right here to glue and screw the two piecesMoreAnd i also like the fact that i have a lot more surface right here to glue and screw the two pieces together that makes a lot of sense all right so now all i have to do is trace our patch.
Are fiberglass columns structural?
HB&G's PermaCast® columns are the most used columns in the United States. Made from a proprietary blend of fiber-reinforced polymers, PermaCast® columns provide an aesthetically pleasing column with exceptional structural capabilities.
Are fiberglass columns load-bearing?
Fiberglass polymer, fiberglass, wood and aluminum columns all exhibit load-bearing characteristics if they are not split.
Are fiberglass columns hollow?
Fiberglass polymer composite columns are hollow throughout which allows the columns to be factory or field split in halves to wrap structural posts. These columns are the most dense and heaviest of all the fiberglass column materials available.
Are fiberglass columns good?
Fiberglass columns are a good choice if you need the columns to support the weight of a structure, like a porch roof. The term that refers to this ability is “load- bearing.” In addition to being load-bearing, most fiberglass columns are also weather resistant and insect proof.
Are hollow fiberglass columns load bearing?
Are fiberglass columns structural? They are load-bearing and can be structural when used in combination with structural hardware or columns.
How heavy is fiberglass columns?
Fiberglass: A 12″x8′ fiberglass column holds 18,000 pounds and weights 114 pounds. Wood: A 12″8′ wood column holds 10,000 pounds and weighs 55 pounds.
What kind of paint do you use on fiberglass columns?
Oil-based Paints and When to Use Them on Fiberglass Columns The alkyd or oil-based topcoat that we tested from Sherwin Williams is highly durable and results in a rich finish. It is only available in a high gloss sheen.
Can fiberglass columns be cut?
Fire up your circular saw with an abrasive and fine-toothed blade and make the cut through the masking tape, rotating the column as needed too complete the cut. If the column is tapered, make sure to cut only from the bottom in order to keep the aesthetic and proportion of the column.
What are fiberglass columns made of?
fiberglass reinforced polymerTypes of Fiberglass Columns FRP fiberglass columns are fabricated from fiberglass reinforced polymer (FRP). Glass fibers and polymer resin are mixed together to deliver a lightweight, strong composite. The material is spun cast using centrifugal force.
How do you clean fiberglass columns?
A sponge mop is basically a squeegee designed to clean the floor but it also comes with helpfully long handle. A clean mop head and fresh hot water will handle just about anything that might have built up on your columns over the last few months or years. Just remember to start at the top and work your way down.
What is fiberglass columns?
Fiberglass Columns are designed for all types of decorative and load-bearing installations. They are manufactured from highly advanced fiberglass reinforced polymers (FRP), which makes them very durable – all components are insect-, weather- and decay-resistant, and carry a limited lifetime warranty.
What is a structural column?
Structural columns are used to model vertical load-bearing elements in a building. Although structural columns share many of the same properties as architectural columns, structural columns have additional properties defined by their configuration and industry standards.
How heavy is fiberglass columns?
Fiberglass: A 12″x8′ fiberglass column holds 18,000 pounds and weights 114 pounds. Wood: A 12″8′ wood column holds 10,000 pounds and weighs 55 pounds.
Can fiberglass columns be cut?
Fire up your circular saw with an abrasive and fine-toothed blade and make the cut through the masking tape, rotating the column as needed too complete the cut. If the column is tapered, make sure to cut only from the bottom in order to keep the aesthetic and proportion of the column.
Are PermaCast columns structural?
Insect and weather proof, PermaCast are structural and designed to bear porch or beam loads. Easy to install, they can be used in exterior or interior application. With it's classical round tapered form, PermaCast columns last a lifetime.
How to clean fiberglass sanding?
After the surface is sanded down, you need to get everything off the surface so that the epoxy and fiberglass patch will stick. Use a rag or paper towel soaked in acetone to wipe down the entire area, including all of the internal edges of the fiberglass that you opened up.
How to repair cracked fiberglass?
To fix fiberglass that has cracked, you must first assess the extent of the damage and then prepare the surface. By removing all of the damaged material and exposing solid fiberglass you will be able to effectively add epoxy resin and sheets of additional fiberglass to repair the area. Steps.
How to get air bubbles out of fiberglass?
After you lay each layer of fiberglass down, use the tip of your brush to gently push it down into the surface . This will help eliminate air bubbles that might be stuck between layers. Smooth the surface as much as possible while it is wet.
How to keep fiberglass dust out of your eyes?
Put on personal protective equipment. This includes gloves, eye protection, and a dust mask or respirator. It is most important to keep fiberglass dust out of your lungs and eyes. You also want to keep it off of your skin if possible, as it can cause irritation.
What is fiberglass used for?
Fiberglass is a strong and versatile material that can be used to make a variety of things, including bumpers, showers, and boats. While it is a useful and lightweight material, it can be damaged relatively easily.
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Can you repair fiberglass with epoxy?
If the damage is this small, you can proceed with a simple repair with epoxy and no additional fiberglass sheeting. Push around the damaged area to feel for weakness in the fiberglass. A small spot of damage on the surface can actually be larger underneath.
Why is fiberglass resin used for repairs?
For this reason, fiberglass repairs rely upon the adhesive quality of their resin for their strength—the strength of physical bond to the primary structure. Because of this, the resin used for the repair should be just as strong as the resin used to fabricate the part.
What is PVA used for?
PVA is best used for spot repairs, or where access is easy while the gel coat is still wet. Gel coat will need to be sanded prior to final buffing. Use a hard rubber sanding block and start with 400—grit wet/dry paper to level the gel coat. Focus the sanding effort only on the high spots until everything is flush.
How long does it take for gel coat to fade?
Your repair may stand out at first, but everything will fade to the same color in about a month. When using gel coat to fill a scratch, use a small brush to dab in the gel coat.
How to laminate a repair patch?
The first step to laminating the repair patch is pre-cutting your patch materials to fit the repair. This includes pre-cutting the core material and all reinforcement plies to fit within the taper you’ve prepared as you’ve readied the surface. If your part features a sandwich core material, cut the core first to fill the deepest hole. Note that some core materials, such as Nomex® Honeycomb, have their own orientation which needs to be aligned in the part. Be sure to check this for both sandwich core and reinforcement fabrics, consulting the list that was made during the preparation process so that each reinforcement ply is cut to fit in the proper orientation. Cut each ply so that it fits precisely into the area of the taper or into the step that was prepared for it. Modern repairs are made ply—by—ply, so the smallest piece is intended to go first, into the bottom of the valley. Stack the reinforcements near where they will be used, with the first layer to be placed in the bonding area on top of the pile.
What is cosmetic finish on a boat?
A part’s outer cosmetic finish is designed to hide and protect the structural reinforcement below, while also being aesthetically pleasing. It is this surface that most people will look at and judge the whole structure. Even slight damage like scratches and gouges will mar the finished appearance. Worse, these often create a direct path into the structural layers, causing even larger problems. Cosmetic blisters are a problem which, left untreated, can turn entire boat hulls into sponges.
How to inspect composite repair?
How to inspect a composite repair. Before you put your repaired part back into service, you need to inspect your repair. Use the coin tap method to inspect the repair after it has fully cured . The entire structure should resonate with the same solid sound.
How long does it take to cure resin?
If a two—sided repair has been planned, preparation for the opposite side can begin once the first patch has been fully cured, generally 48 hours. Your repair patch should match the original fabric used for the part.
What is the difference between fiberglass and resin?
When you glass in the patches, think of it as making a sandwich. The resin is your bread, and the fiberglass is your meat and cheese and fixins. You start with a paintbrush and apply a layer of resin to the area which will be receiving the patches.
What to wear when working with fiberglass?
When working with these materials it is important to wear a respirator, gloves, and safety glasses. It is advised that you wear a paint suit to cover all skin that could be exposed to fiberglass particulate.
What temperature should I use for pouring?
You must consider the environment that you conduct pours in. The temperature should be relatively stable around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and have a good air flow. Ideally, you are inside under a vent hood. For these pours, I was outside in the cold Oakland air, on a kind of damp day......not ideal.
What is a fiberglass column?
In short, a fiberglass column is a composite column that has any amount of fiberglass strand in it. A fiberglass column typically comes with a capital, base, and shaft but we sell them individually if desired. Watch this video to learn more about the 3 most common compositions of fiberglass columns.
What are columns made of?
These columns are mostly made from a combination of marble (calcium carbonate) and polymer resin with very little fiberglass content (1-3%).
Is a fiberglass column structural?
Fiberglass columns are not structural as it pertains to uplift. They will hold the weight of your roof in other words but they won't keep the roof from lifting up during a hurricane. They can be made structural in combination with hardware like a Simpson Strong-Tie or with the use of a lally column or the like.
Can balustrades be installed on fiberglass columns?
Yes, balustrade systems or railings can be installed into our fiberglass columns. Our columns are structurally capable of withstanding the lateral force that can be applied to a railing system. For column covers, make sure that the railings anchor into the structural member behind the column.
Is aluminum a column?
Aluminum Columns are not architectural columns; they are more accurately called posts. Concrete is heavy, corrodes, and requires a lot more structural reinforcement to the foundation than do fiberglass columns.
Is synthetic stone more expensive than fiberglass?
Synthetic stone looks and feels like stone but is much lighter and less expensive. These are about 30% more than fiberglass but avoid the costs associated with painting the columns. PVC is available in square styles only and is usually painted but some people leave them in their natural white finish.
Do cast alternatives come with lifetime warranty?
They weigh a fraction of the weight of our cast alternative and come with a lifetime warranty. Although they are available in unlimited finished colors, sheens (matte to high gloss), and finishes (granite, metallic, stone, etc), typically, they are ordered with a marine-grade white gel-coat and are painted on site.
What is Worthington millwork?
Worthington Millwork is known to be the experts when it comes to fiberglass columns and architectural details including stone columns, balustrade systems, brackets, corbels, window heads, window arches, ceiling medallions and much more. Feel free to contact us with any questions that you might have.
How to clean a sandpaper column?
Instructions. Use a damp cloth to thoroughly clean the column of any dirt or dust particles. If you find any spots that a damp cloth does not clean; use a solution of water and soap. Make sure the column dries completely prior to moving on to the next step.
Can you use oil for exterior latex paint?
In general, an exterior latex semi-gloss paint will require an exterior latex primer designed for gloss paints. You can substitute oil for latex, interior for exterior, and flat for gloss in the formula to get the right kind of primer. Lightly sand the entire column with 120-grit sand paper.
Can you paint fiberglass columns?
Fiberglass columns are one of the most commonly purchased columns today. They are very easy to paint and offer a limited lifetime warranty (depending on where you purchased them from). They are extremely durable and can withstand a variety of conditions and abuse. Painting columns the correct way is very important.
Can you spray water on a column?
Note: Column should never be sprayed with water prior to installation. The caps and bases will have small gaps between them and the column; make sure to caulk these areas. Let the caulking dry and apply more if it is needed. Use a 2″ or 3″ paintbrush to apply your primer. Paint at least one coat of primer.
Repair or Replace Your Wood Porch Columns the Easy Way
Knowing how to repair porch columns (or replace a porch column) can save you lots of money and prevent damage to your porch and home. It is easier than you might think and can be done fairly quickly.
Repair Porch Columns Using Wood Restoration Kits to Save Time and Money
Wood restoration kits are an excellent way to repair porch columns (and other rotted or decayed wood structures) without removing the column itself. You can even use some of these products for structural repairs too.
How to Repair Porch Columns the Easy Way
We'll show you how to remove and repair a decayed porch column or for replacing one. Depending on your skills, time available, or budget, you might want to consider each option. Sometimes, it is best to just replace the column; the process is the same.
Which is better, acrylic or latex paint?
Generally speaking, the more acrylic there is in a latex paint, the better the quality, which is why we recommend the acrylic latex paint above from Sherwin Williams. The acrylic paint also has better color and gloss retention than the oil-based alternative. General Advantages of Latex Paints:
What color are fiberglass columns?
These cast fiberglass columns come in a grayish, grayish blue, yellowish, or brownish color depending on the filler used by the manufacturer and are considered a paint-grade product. All of our fiberglass columns come with a lifetime warranty.
What to wear when painting fiberglass?
Wear proper protective clothing, gloves, masks, and eye protection at all times. Allow for proper ventilation when priming, painting, and sanding. Sanding: The biggest mistake made when painting a fiberglass column is assuming that all manufacturers provide a fully sanded column.
Does acrylic latex paint crack?
The major caveats to consider are: Fiberglass columns expand and contract with changes in temperature so the hard finish of an oil-based paint is more likely to crack with expansion and contraction whereas acrylic latex paints are especially made to expand and contract with the materials under them.
Can you use alkyd paint on fiberglass?
If you choose to use an alkyd paint on our fiberglass columns, you should limit the use to well-lit areas and areas that don't experience a wide range of temperatures. Oil-based paint is known for emitting strong fumes and requires solvents like turpentine or paint thinner to clean up spills and used paintbrushes.
Is latex paint water based?
Latex paint is considered a water-based paint and those two terms are used interchangeably. It is comprised of synthetic polymers that resemble natural latex but there is no natural latex in these paints, making it yet another misnomer. Under this category of synthetic water-based paints, you have acrylics, vinyl acrylics, styrene acrylics, etc. Roughly 75% of paints sold today are latex because they offer significantly more advantages over oil-based alternatives. Generally speaking, the more acrylic there is in a latex paint, the better the quality, which is why we recommend the acrylic latex paint above from Sherwin Williams. The acrylic paint also has better color and gloss retention than the oil-based alternative.
Can you use mineral spirits on fiberglass?
Mineral spirits may be used but do not use acetone on fiberglass columns. Caulking: Caulk the gap between the cap/base and the shaft using a high quality, acrylic latex sealant. Similarly, fill any screw holes or cavities (putty or bondo may be used instead).
Categories
Diagnosis
- Once you understand what type of damage you have, we recommend that you use a contrasting marker to outline the boundary of the damage. This will help you to understand the scope and magnitude of the damage, as well as offer you the chance to fully inspect your part. Take note, however, that you should inspect the damage carefully as the problem area often extends farthe…
Results
- Once the extent of the damage and the type of material is known, you should determine whether the part in question should be repaired or whether youre better off replacing it. If youve discovered the manufacturers specifications while you were identifying the necessary materials, check whether the damaged area is too large to be repaired. If no information can be reviewed, we rec…
Safety
- With either method, for personal safety and cleanliness, we recommend that you tape the hose of a shop vacuum to the work surface so that dust can be removed while grinding is taking place. Additionally, be sure that you wear a respirator and if possible protective clothing as this is a very messy process and you want to be as protected as possible. When sanding is complete, the wh…
Preparation
- The first step to laminating the repair patch is pre-cutting your patch materials to fit the repair. This includes pre-cutting the core material and all reinforcement plies to fit within the taper youve prepared as youve readied the surface. If your part features a sandwich core material, cut the core first to fill the deepest hole. Note that some ...
Classification
- Inspection of cosmetic damage is just as important as it is with structural damage. There are four main categories for cosmetic composite damage, and you may find one or all of these types of damage depending on what your part has been through. The categories are as follows:
Treatment
- After youve successfully identified the size and scale of the cosmetic damage, you should be able to approximate how much repair material is required. Gouges and Blisters will require both filler and gel coat, while scratches and crazing can typically be repaired with gel coat alone. If your part was originally made with polyester resin, polyester filling compounds and gel coat are suitable f…
Use
- If paint is your top coat, a surfacing primer is worth applying underneath. The primer will hid the fine irregularities that may still exist while also sealing the patch. For most repairs, Duratec® Surfacing Primer is the best material for the task. It has a high heat distortion temperature, which further protects already stabilized patches from shrinkage. Most paint systems will stick to cure…