Wrapping Decorative Columns

You can easily revamp the atmosphere of your porch or room by wrapping decorative columns. There are a multitude of wrap styles you can choose from that involve various colors and textures. When you’ve selected your favorite design, the wrap can be installed with minimal difficulty if you follow the straightforward instructions below. 

Step 1 – Cut the Wrap to Size 

Wrapping for decorative columns can be purchased at various lengths. It’s always best to choose a column wrap that’s slightly longer than the measured length of your structural post because you can always trim it down to size. Measure the column wrap against the porch post and use a pencil to mark the limit to where you’ll cut it. Use a jigsaw to cut the end piece off. 

Step 2 – Assign the Base 

Since the column wrap is symmetrical, you can decide which end will be your base. Check the package for L-shaped squaring blocks. Use your drill to screw these onto the decided bottom of the shaft. They will fit around the outside and provide holes for you to mount the wrap onto the flooring. Screw each L-shaped squaring block onto one L-shaped shaft. The 2 L-shaped shafts will later be fitted together. 

Step 3 – Attach the Shafts 

Set up your caulking gun. Apply a bead of adhesive caulk to the 2 angled edges of the L-shaped shaft. You only need to caulk one of the L-shaped shafts. Now position the caulked shaft vertically around the post. It should cover two sides of the square post. Make sure that the L-shaped squaring block is flat to the floor. Have someone help you hold the shaft in place as you stand the second shaft up, cover the other 2 sides of the post, and attach the 2 shafts together at the seams. The caulk should provide the adhesive for the 2 shafts. Wipe excess caulk with a wet cloth as soon as possible. 

Step 4 – Screw in All Squaring Blocks 

For stability, you need to screw your wrapped decorative column to the flooring and the ceiling. Insert screws into preset holes in the L-shaped squaring blocks on the floor and drill them in tightly. Now, position the last 2 L-shaped squaring blocks around the top of the column, insert screws, and drill those in to both the shaft and the ceiling. 

Step 5 – Caulk On the Cap and the Base 

The cap and the base wrap around the decorative column just as you wrapped the structural post. As above, caulk 1 of the angled edges of the cap and position the 2 sides around the top of the shaft, wiping off excess caulk. When attached, a small gap will be created between the cap and the column. Have someone hold the 2 sides of the cap in place as you caulk the gap. When you repeat this step for the base and let all of the caulk dry for a full 24 hours, you’ll have finished wrapping your decorative column!