Keep your Columns Standing Tall

Maintaining Columns
Columns can function as load bearing elements or merely ornamental pieces. In either case, they provide elegance and charm to the exterior of a house. But they have to be maintained to retain their beauty.

Most columns are hollow and temperature changes can create condensation inside the interior. That condensation can lead to rot from the inside over time.

Vent discs should be inserted into the top and bottom of each column. These will allow the column to breathe and eliminate the condensation. Also, inspect columns regularly for any deterioration. Scrape, sand and repaint the columns as needed. While wooden columns are the most popular, other materials like aluminum and fiberglass will require less maintenance

If the columns are load bearing, this is a safety issue and you should call a professional immediately if you notice any damage or deterioration.

Tempered Glass

Tempered glass is heat-treated and roughly four times stronger than regular or annealed glass. And unlike regular glass, which shatters into dangerous shards when broken, tempered glass crumbles into smaller rounded pieces.

Tempered glass is usually identified with a sticker. Homeowners living in earthquake-prone regions like California are familiar with tempered glass. Local and Federal regulations also require the use of tempered glass for certain areas of a house.

For safety reasons, any window less than 18 inches from the floor must be made of tempered glass. The same goes for sliding glass doors and doors around tubs and showers. And front door windows must also be made with tempered glass.

You can also find tempered glass in microwave doors, refrigerator shelves, oven doors and fireplace doors.