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FAQ

How is the steel “U” bracket attached to the concrete?

There are four strands of 1/2” or 5/8” (depending on the model) of weld-grade rebar, robotically welded to the steel “U” bracket and running the 5 foot length of the concrete pre-cast.

How do you set Perma-Columns so they are all level?

Place a laser level on top of the auger head as the post holes are dug to insure that all holes are a uniform depth. For greater accuracy, blackfill the bottom of the holes with tamped stone before setting posts.

Will treated wood prematurely corrode Perma-Column brackets and fasteners?

Most current generation treated wood available today is designed to minimize corrosion. However, if you have a high moisture application or are concerned about corrosion, place a barrier between the treated wood and steel bracket and use stainless steel fasteners.

How do I attach the treated splashboard to the concrete?

First, position the splashboard against the pre-cast concrete column. Next, predrill the correct diameter hole through the splashboard two inches deep into the concrete. Then, drive a split-drive anchor to attach. Stainless steel drive anchors are required for highly corrosive wood treatments.

How deep should Perma-Columns be placed in the ground?

Generally, Perma-Column are designed to have a base depth equal to or less than a standard wood column. Since the posts are slightly wider in the dimension that resists lateral loads, less depth is required to achieve maximum structural integrity.

Do Perma-Columns need to sit on a concrete footing?

It is recommended that the same size footing required for a wood support column be used for a Perma-Column. Following this process ensures proper load-bearing requirements are achieved.

How are the galvanized uplift anchors connected to the Perma-Column?

A steel pipe is welded to the base of the four vertical reinforcing rods, creating a sleeve in the base of the Perma-Column. This will accommodate the bolt-on uplift anchors.

What if the embedment depth exceeds the 5’ length of a standard Perma-Column?

Option 1 – When it is required to go deeper into the soil profile, 6 and 7 foot Perma-Column are available. The additional length is accomplished internally by extending 2 of the rebar and steel pipe within the lower portion of the pre-cast column. Option 2 – A column extender (stilt) is connected to the base of the Perma-Columns to lift the columns to the desired height. Concrete is then poured around the extender, creating a combination footing and uplift anchor.

How do Perma-Columns compare in cost to other concrete foundations?

Perma-Columns provide the quickest and least expensive concrete foundation for post frame construction. There is no waiting on a concrete subcontractor to complete his work before the builder moves in. Unlike a monolithic slab, the structure won’t “float.” Also, the steel bracket to wood connection is elevated 12” to 16” above the floor, eliminating all possibility of post rot!

Are Perma-Columns made with standard concrete?

No! Perma-Columns are poured in a controlled environment using the latest pre-casting and curing technology. Additives are incorporated to enhance strength, density, corrosion and freeze-thaw resistance, yielding a high density concrete that has a compression strength of 10,000 psi.

With centuries of proven success, concrete is easily the most proven foundation material known to man.

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