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I am wrapping up a remodel of a 45 year old ranch in California. The front porch calls for rock pilasters about 2 1/2 feet square and 3 feet high. The porch is supported by several 6×6 posts that are anchored in saddles six to 8″ above ground level sitting on 2x St pads. We are planning to pour a concrete slab and cover with brick splits and fulls. To create the pilasters we are planning to build a cinder block structure around the posts and cover with a combination of brick and rock facing. There will be nothing touching the posts except at the top where a cap will be grouted and sealed. Should I be concerned about encapsulating the posts. I can’t imagine how moisture will get in there but would drain holes be appropriate or will I just be creating a nice dark place for bugs.
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I am wrapping up a remodel of a 45 year old ranch in California. The front porch calls for rock pilasters about 2 1/2 feet square and 3 feet high. The porch is supported by several 6x6 posts that are anchored in saddles six to 8" above ground level sitting on 2x St pads. We are planning to pour a concrete slab and cover with brick splits and fulls. To create the pilasters we are planning to build a cinder block structure around the posts and cover with a combination of brick and rock facing. There will be nothing touching the posts except at the top where a cap will be grouted and sealed. Should I be concerned about encapsulating the posts. I can't imagine how moisture will get in there but would drain holes be appropriate or will I just be creating a nice dark place for bugs.