installation

Installing LeeWay columns, half columns and pilasters is generally easier than with other materials for four main reasons. Firstly, the polymer material they are made from is more durable and less prone to damage than materials like plaster and grp, which can easily chip. Secondly, they are lightweight so are therefore much easier to move and manipulate into position. Thirdly they install using adhesives, and finally they are preprimed and so only need one coat of paint once installed (unlike plaster which can soak up several layers).

The most complex installation is when you are wrapping two half columns around a structural support. (Remember, our columns, half columns and pilasters are not load bearing, so if support of a ceiling or roof is required you must install a steel or other structural support to bear the load).

Below is a set of illustrations (that you can print off if required) showing how installation is achieved. Beneath those illustrations is a written explanation.

For full columns, half columns installed against a wall and pilasters the principle is the same without the need to join two halves together - simply ignore the instructions that relate to joining two half columns together. Please note that the adhesives shown on the illustrations are for exterior applications. If you go to our adhesives page it explains the adhesives required for all interior and exterior applications.

If you have any questions please feel free to call us on 0121 449 8525.

1. Measure accurately the height between ceiling and floor.

2. The height of your assembled column will be this height, less 5mm. This will allow you to manipulate the column into the space and the height will be made up later with filler.

3. To allow for the support structure cut an area equivalent to the diameter of the support structure, plus 5mm for tolerance, from the tops of the plinth and shaft sections.

4. Fix the capital section to the shaft.

5 & 6. Join the two assembled capitals and shafts together. The capitals have locating tabs to make sure everything is positioned correctly. Fix together. Then fix to the ceiling (these will need to be held in place for the next couple of instructions).

7. Tape the two halves together to hold in position whilst adhesive sets off.

8. Fix the plinth to the shaft and the two half plinths together.

9. Tape the two halves together to hold in position whilst adhesive sets off. Position wedges under the plinth to lift it tight to the shaft. This will lift it the 5mm you have previously allowed on the overall height. At this point the structure should be stable. Fill the space between the bottom of the plinth and the floor (avoiding the wedges), and leave for 24 hours for all adhesives to set properly.

10. After this 24 hour period remove the wedges and the tape.

11. Fill the spaces left by the wedges and any gaps in any joins that may be visible. Then leave for a further 24 hours for this filler to set off properly.

12. Sand down any rough edges left by the filler and paint.

For a printable PDF version of the installation instructions click here >>