Frequently Asked Questions

About Caps and Bases for PVC Pipe Column Systems

Q: Can I buy just caps and bases and use my own pipe?

A: Yes, in fact you will need to purchase your own PVC column being sure that the caps and bases that you purchase have an inside diameter that matches the outside width, or diameter, of your PVC pipe. You can also try looking up plumbing or irrigation suppliers in your local yellow pages.

Q: How can I tell the difference between the cap and the base?

A: For the ABS and TCB series The cap has a cove edge near the top and the top edge is 1/2-inch wide as seen from the side. The base has a more solid design and no cove edge. When viewed from the side, the base edge is 1 1/2-inches wide. For the CCP series the cap and base, or top and bottom, are the same.

Q: Is painting easy?

A: Yes, painting is easy. For the ABS products, the pipe, cap, and base should be thoroughly cleaned with an alcohol-based cleanser. The column can be lightly sanded with 150-grit white 3M TRI-M-ITE sandpaper and then primed with a good-quality oil base primer. After it has dried (24 hours), apply a good-quality premium latex paint for a topcoat.

The TCB and CCP products, have a paintable primer already covering all exposed surfaces so you only need to clean the pipe with an alcohol-based cleanser as mentioned above.

Q: Can I make my PVC pipe look like marble?

A: Yes, using today's faux finishing products and techniques, you can create a column that looks like marble. There are now many reliable sites on the internet that give advice and examples as to how this may be done.

Q: Are columns load bearing?

A: As purchased they are not, but the hollow core has plenty of space for a load-bearing support member that meets the building codes in your area. The columns can also be filled with concrete, but be sure to check with your building department for any necessary requirements.

Q: Can columns be split and reassembled?

A: Yes they can. You may find that your your pipe supplier sells different grades of PVC pipe with thicker walls. If you are going to cut your pipe in order to split it, we recommend purchasing the more expensive and thicker walled pipe, as this will have less tendency to warp after cutting; avoiding headaches when putting the halves back together. The caps and bases are easy to cut in half and reassemble.

Q: What lengths are available?

A: One of the great things about constructing columns out of pipe is that pipe comes in lengths up to 20 feet that can be cut to the desired column height.

Q: Will they stand up to weather?

A: Yes. Once columns are installed and painted properly, they will stand and be virtually maintenance-free for years to come.

Q: Can products be returned if I am not satisfied?

A: Absolutely, These products are covered by our 30 day return policy.