Exterior columns

Types of exterior columns

Exterior columns are vertical structures that provide support and stability to exterior spaces. They are usually found in front of home entrances, decks, patios, and porches. These columns are made from different materials, including wood, concrete, fiberglass, and metal. They come in various styles and designs, such as modern, traditional, and minimalist.

Exterior columns are divided into three main types based on their function, including:

• Dorics

  Doric is one of the types of exterior columns. It is simply a shaft that rests on a square base. The shaft is fluted or lined with vertical grooves. The Doric column has a simple capital or top part. The capital is made by widening the top of the column shaft. The Doric columns are more widely used and are the oldest. They are used in temples and other important buildings in ancient Greece.

• Ionic

  Ionic columns are slender and taller than Doric columns. Their shafts are also fluted. They are characterized by elegant scrolls or volutes at the top of the column (capital). The scrolls curl around and give the columns a beautiful look. The Ionic columns are known for their grace and are commonly used in temples and other ancient Greek buildings.

• Corinthian

  The Corinthian columns are the most decorative. They are very similar to the Ionic columns since they have the same slender shaft and fluted grooves. However, they have a more elaborate capital. The capital is covered in lots of leaves and flowers that make it look really fancy. The Corinthian columns were used in ancient Rome and Greece. They give a feeling of luxury and grandeur whenever they are used.

• Composite

  The composite columns combine the Ionic and Corinthian styles. They have a taller, thinner shaft like the Ionic columns. Their capital is also more decorative, combining the scrolls of the Ionic columns and the leaves of the Corinthian columns. The composite columns are elegant and are used in both ancient and modern buildings.

• Tuscan

  Tuscan columns are the simplest of all. They are very similar to the Doric columns. However, they are smoother and less decorative. The columns have a plain, round shaft and a simple square base. They are sturdy and are used in buildings that need a strong support system.

Features and functions of exterior columns

When considering exterior columns for any home, it will be important to look at their features and functions. Below is a brief overview of each.

• Support and stability

  This is the most important function of any column, to support. Columns carry the weight of the roof or any other structure above it. They help distribute the weight to the ground or foundation, providing stability and keeping the structure standing. This is especially important for large structures like porches or decks that need extra support and stability.

• Material and design

  Exterior columns are designed with materials that can resist the weather and are strong and durable. They can be made of wood, vinyl, fiberglass, or composite materials. The design of the column also affects its ability to support the structure. The exterior column comes in different designs, such as tapered, round, square, or fluted. The materials used in the column can be painted or stained to match the color of the house.

• Decorative elements

  Exterior columns are not only functional; they are also beautiful. They come in different styles, from classical to modern, to fit the design of any house. Columns can be ornate with decorative elements like capitals and bases or simple and sleek. The finishes on the exterior columns can add elegance and charm to the house. The column's height and proportion also contribute to the aesthetics of the house. It makes the house look well-balanced and organized.

• Material longevity

  The materials used to make exterior columns can resist damage from weather elements like rain, snow, or sunlight. They can also resist rot, termites, and insects. This makes the column last longer and need little maintenance.

• Installation

  Installing exterior columns is usually straightforward. Most manufacturers have columns that can be easily installed by a single person without needing special tools or equipment. Columns can be adjusted to fit different heights and widths during installation.

Scenarios of exterior columns

Exterior columns are crucial in defining the architectural design of a house. Their applications cut across different types of buildings, including residential, commercial, and historical ones.

• Support and Load-Bearing

  The primary function of exterior columns is load support. It bears the weight of the roof, transferring it to the foundation. This is common in residential and commercial buildings, providing structural integrity. Columns are also used as decorative elements in load-bearing applications. For instance, in Greek architecture, columns are more valued for their aesthetic appeal than for their load-bearing capabilities.

• Architectural Feature

  Exterior columns are used as architectural features in many building designs. They are strategically placed to enhance a building's visual appeal. This is done by creating a sense of depth, leading the eye upward, and breaking the monotony of flat surfaces. In historical buildings, columns are placed in front of the entrance to create a grand and welcoming effect. This is common in classical and neoclassical architectural styles.

• Material and Style Variation

  Exterior columns come in different styles and materials. Each of these combinations serves a different purpose. For instance, wooden columns are more popular in residential houses due to their warmth and natural beauty. On the other hand, metal columns are more prevalent in modern architectural designs due to their sleek and minimalist appearance. Concrete columns offer a combination of strength and durability. They are usually found in commercial and industrial buildings.

• Outdoor Spaces

  Columns are strategically placed in outdoor spaces to create a defined area. This makes it a common practice in patios and verandas. They support overhead structures like roofs in patios, thereby providing a shaded area for relaxation and entertainment. In landscapes, columns are used to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the environment. They offer a focal point in the surrounding landscapes.

• Historical and Cultural Significance

  Exterior columns have historical importance in many cultures. For instance, in ancient Greece, columns were celebrated for their architectural and artistic beauty. They were also distinguished for their functional capabilities. In other cultures, columns were used as decorative elements in the architectural designs of temples and palaces.

• Technological Advancements

  With modern technology, architects and engineers can design exterior columns with advanced materials. These materials offer a combination of traditional aesthetics with modern performance capabilities. For instance, fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) columns mimic the appearance of traditional materials. At the same time, they offer superior durability and low maintenance.

How to Choose exterior columns

• Durability and Maintenance:

  It's vital to pick materials that can withstand the local climate. Columns exposed to sunshine will need a coating that protects against UV degradation. In rainy areas, opt for water-resistant materials. The column finish also affects maintenance; smooth finishes are easier to clean than textured ones.

• Style and Architecture:

  Exterior columns should complement the home's design. Traditional houses suit classic column styles, while modern homes are better with sleek, minimalist columns. Consider the home's shape and size, too. Larger homes need more substantial columns for balance, and smaller homes can use lighter columns.

• Functionality:

  Consider what each column needs to do. Support columns must bear weight, so pick strong materials like wood or fiberglass. If the goal is just to add style, hollow columns are an option. Some columns can combine support with decorative appeal. For porches, load-bearing or hollow columns are good choices.

• Customization:

  Many column types allow for custom touches. Materials like wood can be shaped in unique designs, while fiberglass comes in many pre-made styles. When deciding, think about the budget and how much time custom work will take. Custom columns may cost more upfront but provide a perfect style match.

• Budget and Availability:

  Price impacts column choice. Materials like aluminum and PVC are usually affordable, while stone and custom wood cost more. Check what materials are sold locally, too. Some column types may need special order if not standard for the area. Local availability can speed up building time.

exterior columns Q&A

Q: What are the main purposes of exterior columns?

A: Columns are primarily used to support and bear the weight of a structure. They help distribute the weight to the ground. Besides support, columns also provide an aesthetic function. They make a house look beautiful and classy.

Q: What is the difference between a column and a post?

A: Both columns and posts are vertical structures. However, they differ in application. Columns are generally used in architectural applications. They have a more defined and consistent diameter. Posts are used in structural applications and have varying diameters.

Q: What are the types of columns?

A: There are several types of columns. They include: Post and lintel columns, which consist of a vertical column and a horizontal beam. Load-bearing columns, which bear the weight of the roof or upper floors. Decorative columns, which offer aesthetic appeal without providing significant structural support. Balloon columns, which have a fluted shaft and are topped with a decorative capital. Box columns, which have a square or rectangular shape and can be filled with structural material.

Q: What are the three main types of exterior columns?

A: The three main types of columns are: Capitol and shaft columns, which consist of the Capitol, a top decorative part, and the shaft, a vertical part. Base and plinth columns, which consist of the base, the lower part, and the plinth, the part that rests on the ground. Arch and intrados columns, which consist of the arch, a curved top part, and the intrados, the inner surface of the arch.

Q: What materials are commonly used for columns?

A: Exterior columns can be made from different materials. The most common ones are wood, fiberglass, metal, and stone.