Installing a Column

• 1). Determine the desired location on the ceiling and mark it with the pencil. Plumb down from this point with the plumb-bob and transfer the ceiling mark to the floor. Measure the outside diameter (OD) of the column at the top and bottom. Divide this number by two. Measure from your center-line marks and mark this new number. This will define and locate the outer edge of the column.
  
  
• 2). Measure between the floor and the ceiling at the center-line marks. Subtract one and a half inches from this number. This will be your column length for a non-load bearing column. Measure down from the top end of the column and mark this new length. Rotate the column and mark the length every three inches or so. This will help keep your cut square and true. Cross-cut the column on this line with the skilsaw to remove the extra length from the bottom of the column.
  
  
• 3). Slide the Tuscan capital and base onto the column. Allow the capital to rest on the trim ring and wedge the base up the column a bit to hold it clear of the end and prevent damage when the column is stood up. Stand the column up, being careful to not damage the ceiling. If the column is too long to be stood up then trim just enough off the length at the bottom to allow it to clear. Dress the edge of the column to your OD marks. Apply adhesive caulk to the wedges, then insert the wedges between the column and the ceiling. Allow the caulk to dry, then trim them off flush with the edge of the column.
  
  
• 4). Apply caulk to the top of the capital and slide it into place. Insert small wedges between the capital and the column to hold it still until the caulk dries. Apply caulk to the floor where the base will rest and remove the wedges holding the base. Position the base onto the floor and dress the sides to the OD marks. Allow the adhesive to dry before attempting to caulk the joints or paint the column and end treatments.