Types of Concrete Pillars
Concrete is one of the most widely used materials in modern home construction. Its relative ease of use and versatility make it an ideal material for indoor or outdoor applications for the home. It is a natural material, made from a combination of cement, rock and water, and it ages well, which makes it an eco-friendly and practical option. Pillars are an important functional and aesthetic piece that, when made from concrete, can add great appeal to a home. Does this Spark an idea?
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Building with Concrete
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There is one primary method that is commonly used to construct a concrete pillar. This is called "pumping" and requires a concrete mixture that is somewhat fluid, but will set to the normal concrete consistency. The technique requires that this mixture be moved through a series of tubes -- rubber tubing or steel piping are most common -- and dumped into the appropriate form. The characteristics of this type of mix may give the concrete a higher internal strength than using blocks or other methods. Depending on the height and width of the project, some rebar or other reinforcement may be necessary. The mold should be allowed to dry at least 48 hours, or as long as five days if the design is wider than half a foot or the weather is humid. Once it has set, remove the form and decorate as needed.
Doric Columns
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Doric columns are a simple style and can easily be replicated in concrete. Of the traditional Greek style columns, it is the simplest, with little or no embellishment. They are made of two pieces, the crown and the shaft. The crown is normally a circle topped with a square shape, while the shaft is plain and has 20 "flutes." The style is named for the Dorians of ancient Greece and is perhaps best represented by the columns on the Parthenon in Athens. The simple style makes a Doric column ideal for replication inside or outside the home or as part of a larger architectural project. The style can easily be duplicated in concrete, which will make them durable and, with some decorative techniques, just as aesthetically pleasing as any other material.
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Ionic Columns
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Ionic columns are closely related to the Doric variety, though there are subtle differences. The shaft of the Ionic style is often taller and thinner, and the columns generally have fewer flutes than the Doric style. Entasis, a bulge within the column that gives it a straight appearance at every viewing angle, is an architectural design specific to the Ionic style. The crown tends to be more decorated and elaborate than that of the Doric. The base resembles a group of stacked rings. The basic form can be poured with concrete, and the more elaborate details can be added or even painted on later.
Corinthian Columns
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One of the most elaborate in design and style, Corinthian columns are perhaps the most difficult to recreate. The shaft design is similar to that of the Ionic but often slender and fluted. The crown is highlighted with elaborate leaves that resemble the Mediterranean thistle and can include a variety of other decorations. The design has an ornate, decorative base, and examples can still be found on the Roman Pantheon. The basic shape is easily created using concrete and cardboard or other materials for forms. The most difficult part is the ornate décor for the crown, but that can be done separately and added later. More simply, a painted finish can provide these touches.
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