I want to replace these porch columns with another style. I’ve never removed columns like these and I want to make sure I go about it the right way, especially since it’s a load bearing structure. The rings at each end of the column appear to slide toward the middle and the columns appear to be some type of post with a decorative aluminum wrapping. However, I can’t seem to locate the fasteners to begin disassembly. How do these things come apart?
Thanks,
Michael
New knowledge is priceless.
Used knowledge is even more valuable.
Replies
You might try jacking up a little and see how the column is attached. Usually aluminum has a screw in the cap going into the column but it is hard to tell without being there.
Once you get the cap loose there probably is an L bracket holding the column in place.
ANDYSZ2
PS I missed the wrapped part.Usually aluminum comes in two parts and you slide one end into a channel but that doesn't seem right if there is a post inside.
WHY DO I HAVE TO EXPLAIN TO FRIENDS AND FAMILY THAT BEING A SOLE PROPRIETOR IS A REAL JOB?
REMODELER/PUNCHOUT SPECIALIST
Edited 3/1/2007 10:01 am by ANDYSZ2
If you want to get rid of the ones you have just put up some temp support for the porch roof and cut into the alum skin and demo them. Removal and demo are no. the same.
Any luck with the columns?
ANDYSZ2
WHY DO I HAVE TO EXPLAIN TO FRIENDS AND FAMILY THAT BEING A SOLE PROPRIETOR IS A REAL JOB?
REMODELER/PUNCHOUT SPECIALIST
"Any luck with the columns?"
Haven't had a chance to follow up yet. Been tied up with a lot of distractions. Plan to demo a section of the wrap with a recip to see if I can figger it out (I'm replacing them anyway). Local mason said he's seen plenty of these type columns and that they are held in place by the weight of the roof -- nothing else. Told me to jack up slightly on the ceiling and they'd slip right out. Seems unlikely to me.
I'll let you know what I find. Thanks for asking.New knowledge is priceless.
Used knowledge is even more valuable.
Thats how I have put a bunch of them up.
They are very strong so I wouldn't be suprised.
They are around 200$ each so you might try to salvage them and make some money off of them as they are likely to be in good condition.
ANDYSZ2WHY DO I HAVE TO EXPLAIN TO FRIENDS AND FAMILY THAT BEING A SOLE PROPRIETOR IS A REAL JOB?
REMODELER/PUNCHOUT SPECIALIST
If they are alum. columns, they likely are in two pcs. and clip together along the length much like you might find in duct work. If this is the Case there is probably steel jack posts holding up the structure.
BE CAREFUL, Don't take my word on this because I have seen load bearing capable alum. columns.
Start with one in from the end. Use a "slightly" longer 4 x4 post to take the load of the post and take the post down. In this way the roof won't colapse on you if you make a mistake.
If there is jackposts supporting your roof they may or maynot have to come out depending on the new column you wish to put in.
Dave