Precast Concrete Columns and Precast Column Caps versus Synthetic Columns

Precast concrete columns and precast column caps are made of concrete. These columns are designed to imitate real limestone columns. In the past, if you wanted the look, feel and strength of real stone columns and column caps, there were not many options to the homeowner. Synthetic stone is a mixture of resins and crushed limestone, which give the homeowner the look, feel & strength of a real stone column. Below we list some of the differences between precast columns and caps, and synthetic columns.

Precast Concrete Columns: Normally, these concrete columns are not load bearing. In most cases, it requires a steel column to support the weight of the structure above.

Synthetic Stone columns: Our columns are load bearing (to see the bearing capabilities, see column specifications).

Precast Concrete Columns: These columns are normally sent to the jobsite in three to four foot sections and split in half, when handling these sections it is almost impossible not to chip one of these sections of the column. They are then stacked up with spacers between them and tuck pointed with mortar at each vertical and horizontal joint.

Synthetic columns: Our columns are sent to the jobsite in 8’ to 20’ lengths. They require no mortar joints and are seamless.

Precast Columns and Column Caps: Precast concrete columns and precast column caps require that they be installed by masons. It takes approximately 8 hours for a mason crew to install just one 14” x 8’ precast column.

Synthetic Columns: Our columns are normally installed by carpenters; the total time to install a 14” x 8’ column is 1 hour.

Precast Columns and Column Caps: Because they are concrete and require mortar joints, they must be placed on a concrete footing. The slightest movement of the column will cause the mortar joints to crack and possibly fall out.

Synthetic Columns: Our columns are seamless and have no mortar joints to separate, therefore they require no footing. We use colored matched caulking on the caps and bases, which allows for minimal movement.