Installing Craftsman PVC Wraps

How to Install Craftsman PVC Wraps
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First Install the Pedestal

1. Measure the height of where the column is to be installed. Determine both the height of the pedestal and the upper tapered portion of the shaft. We suggest that you install the pedestal before cutting the upper portion.

2. Using the book tape method, tape three panels together to form a “U”. Make sure that the lock mitre edges or 90's line up with each other. Pin or screw this U section to the cleats. Others have suggested that two “L” shaped pieces should be assembled but we find using the U method easier as trees or shrubs are less likely to get in the way

*The process of taping together column panels, applying adhesive to 90 degree or lock mitre joints, then rolling and folding them into shape is called the book tape method. This method makes a very tight seal, which results in a strong bond. Test to make sure that the panels are square then fasten with an air stapler or brad nailer.

3. Place the partially built shaft be place and level (plumb). With a pencil, mark where the top and bottom of the column shaft are to be positioned, marking the inside measurement.

4. Fasten using Tapcon Screws, staples, pins, and/or adhesive the enclosed PVC cleat to the bottom of the shaft, direct contact with concrete is acceptable. For the top, use Pressure Treated Lumber cleats (not included).

5. You are now ready to glue and tape in the last panel.

6. Once the glue has set, remove the tape and pin the cap and base in place.

7. Fill any imperfections with exterior caulking or spackling, sand and you're ready to paint. Painting is not necessary but does improve the appearance of the column wrap.

Secondly, Install the Tapered PVC Upper Shaft

Before installing Tapered Columns, there are some important factors to take into consideration.

1. Never cut from the top of the column shaft, if you do, the shaft diameter will get bigger and the pre-cut capital will not fit. Do cut from the bottom as needed. The shaft diameter gets smaller when the bottom is cut shorter. The base can easily be cut down to match.

2. Measure the height of where the column is to be installed. Reduce this measurement by ½”; and cut to size. Seeing as how the sides of the shaft are sloped, you may require a plum line to predetermine where to cut the panels. Alternatively, you may cut the shaft after the “U” shape has been glued together. 3. Before measuring for the cleats, using the book tape method, tape three panels together to form a “U”. Make sure that the lock mitre edges or 90's are square and line up with each other.

4. Use the U-shaped shaft as a template to mark where the bottom wood cleats are to be fastened, marking the inside measurements.

5. Install the cleats for the bottom of the Column, fasten using Tapcon Screws, staples, pins, and/or adhesive Pressure Treated Lumber cleats (not included), contact with concrete is acceptable.

6. Install the cleats for the top of the Column; fasten using screws, staples, pins, and/or adhesive PVC or Pressure Treated Lumber cleats (not included).

7. Install pin or screw this U section to the cleats. Others have suggested that two “L” shaped pieces should be assembled but we find using the U method easier as trees or shrubs are less likely to get in the way.

8. You are now ready to glue and tape in place the last panel.

9. Once the glue has set, remove the tape and pin the cap and base in place.

10. Fill any imperfections with exterior caulking or spackling, sand and you're ready to paint. Painting is not necessary but does improve the appearance of the column wrap.

TIPS AND BEST PRACTICES FOR INSTALLING PVC COLUMN WRAPS

Safety: This is NOT to be intended to be taken as safety advice, see specific safety precautions in the owner’s manual of your power tools.

Handling: We suggest that you use gloves and great care in handling your PVC parts. Unlike wood, edges on PVC can be razor-sharp.

Load-Bearing Capacity: PVC column wraps are purely decorative and have not been tested for load-bearing capacity.

Railings: If there are any railings to be installed, insure the rails are secured to the structural support. Use only code-approved methods for installation. Use a metal bracket or pressure-treated lumber to the thickness of the space between the support post and the inside of the PVC wrap. Do not use untreated lumber for structural or railing support.

Cutting and Fastening: Cellular PVC can be cut, nailed, and fastened with the same tools as used for wood, with a few differences. Avoid large power framing nailers and pre-drill for any screws larger than 2”. Coarse threaded screws are best.

Cold Temperatures: Cellular PVC becomes brittle the colder it gets. Keep columns indoors prior to installation when working in cold temperatures. Avoid striking the face of the column with a hammer.

Painting: When cellular PVC columns are painted, you cannot tell them apart from their wooden counterparts. Cellular PVC does not require painting for protection. Paint lasts much longer when applied to PVC versus adhering to wood due to the absence of internal moisture.

If painting is preferred, follow the following guidelines. Putty any holes using acrylic putty or caulk. Lightly sand or scuff surface of the column. Clean the surface of the column to remove any dirt or oil residue with light detergent and water, or window cleaner.

IMPORTANT - Use 100% acrylic exterior paint or acrylic with urethane additive paint with a light reflective value (LRV) equal to or greater than 55 units. Failure to follow this requirement will void our product warranty. Consult Sherwin Williams or Blue River Coating in applications where the paint colour has an LRV value of less than 55 units.

Want to print these instructions? Download a PDF version here.