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Columns are essential structural elements, but, without column covers, they can be very unsightly. Column covers offer you a wide range of design options for interior and exterior column treatments. With such a wide selection to choose from, you may find yourself having a hard time deciding which of these are right for your building or other structure. Here is a short guide on how to select based on practicality and form.
Choosing Column Covers That Are Economically-Right for You
Column covers are usually designed in units that will cover one-story-high columns, but they can also be manufactured in multi-story units to cover columns that are two or more stories high. In choosing between single-story and multi-story units, the latter are more cost-effective, as their installation incurs less erection costs and doesn’t require as many horisontal joints. It must be noted, however, that such multi-story covers are heavier and harder to transport and handle.
Finding the Right Cover Finish
You have quite a number of options for the exterior finishes of your column covers. The key to selecting the finish that is right for you is adhering to the overall architectural theme of your structure. For example, sandblasted finishes are best for less traditional structures, whilst marble finishes best suit classical and Mediterranean homes or buildings. Columns in more modern structures can be covered with materials like aluminum or stainless steel.
In addition, you should also consider whether your columns are on the inside or outside of your building. Generally, interior columns have more refined finishes, like a smooth “as cast” finish, which creates a very clean column surface, perfect for painting. Outdoor columns, although sometimes depending on the architectural motif of the building, look best when given finishes such as acid etch and water-washed aggregate, both of which achieve a natural stone-like look.
For residential homes, wood column covers are a low-cost solution, as these often come in do-it-yourself kits. A limitation of such wood covers is that they are generally intended for columns of modest diameter, like basement poles.
Precast Concrete: A Perfect Mix of Practicality and Design
Using precast concrete panels are one of the most economical ways to achieve quality column covers with a nice exterior surface. As compared to cast-in-place concrete, precast concrete is generally stronger, more durable, more resistant, and requires less time to construct.