Column Base Repairs
Backfilled Concrete Bases Harm Wood Columns
Many homeowners near Ottawa see their column bases rotting or cracking as the years of sitting in humid weather pile up. This problem often comes from a poorly thought-out concrete backfilling around the wooden column.
The concrete backfill allows water to pool around the column, increasing its moisture content and inviting bugs or rot to take over. Also, the pooled water can cause the concrete or masonry to crack during the freeze/thaw cycle we experience many days in Ottawa.
Fortunately, Ottawa Column Replacement has successfully dealt with these problems for years, and we can quickly fix your column bases. Our team has a proven method for column base repairs that will restore beauty and structural integrity to your home!
How To Repair Column Bases
Unfortunately, most columns with damaged bases can’t be restored and will need to be replaced. Our solution to this issue is removing the existing column and meticulously clearing out the rotted wood base enveloped by the surrounding concrete.
Next, we fill the void with fresh concrete. This strategic approach creates a solid base that sheds water quickly and allows us to install your new fibreglass column.
The repaired concrete will have a different colour than the older concrete around it. But, the fibreglass columns base will cover the new concrete and leave your porch looking perfect.
Step 1: Identify Base Concrete Decay
The base of your wood columns prematurely rots due to the water pooling created by Decorative Concrete and Stone work. As water freezes and wicks up the column, deterioration ensues.
Step 2: Fresh Concrete Application
We undertake the removal of the decayed column, meticulously clearing the void left by its extraction. Subsequently, we infuse the space with new concrete, raised to the level of the surrounding concrete or stone.
Step 3: Installing New Columns
Following the hardening of the concrete, the installation of your new columns takes place over the fortified concrete backfill. This not only offers a robust foundation for fastening but also mitigates the “Pool” effect, thus safeguarding your valuable concrete against future damage.