Wood column base protection

[rrmiv]

I have an exterior pavilion framed in pressure treated wood. My columns are not standard timber sizes, but are "built up" of nominal 2x members (2x10s, 2x6s, etc.). I plan to use steel base plates with 2" grout underneath and anchor rods into concrete footing. Then plates or angles welded to the base plate and bolted through the column. My question is moisture protection of the column bearing on the steel plate. It seems that water could sit on this plate and be in contact with the wood. How is this resolved? Is bottom of column coated with something? It appears that the IBC 2000 allows this condition with no additional protection beyond being preservative-treated wood. Any suggestions?

 

[pmkPE]

I think it all depends on the ability of your column base to shed water or to retain water. This would include raising the base plate off the concrete which you have already done, provide an adequate coating on the wood and maintain the coating - which the owners will need to do per your specifications as well as the degree of moisture that your columns will be exposed to - how much of an overhang do you have? what part of the country are you in (i.e. what is the amount of rain, humidity and wind that will drive rain to the bases)? and so on. What is the purpose and value of the pavillion? What is its projected life span? Surely there are existing structures in your area that you could review and evaluate and compare to your design. See what their designers did if anything special to protect their structures against the elements.

 

[rrmiv]

pmkPE,

Thanks for your comments. Another question though - you briefly discuss providing and maintaining an adequate coating. What specific coating are you talking about? Is there a specific type or brand you recommend? I know the answer may depend on the other questions you have raised, but can you point me in the right direction?

 

[pmkPE]

Contact your local industrial paint representative. I have found my local Sherwin Williams rep to be very helpful. I am not referring to the residential market sales rep but their industrial rep. Do a "google" and you should be able to locate a number of reputable paint/coating manufacturers that serve your local.

 

[unclesyd]

I hope you used "ground contact" treated wood.