Frequently Asked Questions

about Composite Precast Artificial Columns

"From what material are your precast Columns made?"
Our precast Columns are made from a durable closed-cell polyurethane material which is cast from real brick and stone.  

"Are your precast Columns durable?"
All of our panels, columns, trim and accessories impact resistant and designed for everyday residential and commercial applications. The Columns are manufactured in a controlled manufacturing facility.  They will stand up to harsh weather environments and remain fade resistant. This means our composite Columns will not rot, crack, scale, shift, or experience efflorescence like traditional masonry.

"Are they going to look fake?"
On the contrary!  We are confident that you will actually have to tap on them in order to tell that they're not real brick or stone.  The finish is amazing.  The craftsmen who build these columns take great pride in providing an unmatched look in a high-performance composite product.  We believe that when you see these columns you're going to say "Wow!"

"How difficult are they to install?"
We think you'll be amazed at how easy they are to install.  If you can install a 4"x4" treated post in the ground, you should be able to install a decorative column or mailbox column.  Depending on your level of expertise, you might need help from an electrician if you are installing a column with a hard-wired light or illuminated address numbers.

"Will I need special tools to install my Column?"
Probably not.  You will need a 4"x4" treated post, approximately two 80# bags of concrete mix per column, a mixing container and mixing tools for the concrete, a few tubes of our Accent adhesive, a posthole digger (or auger), level, tape measure, utility  knife, standard caulking gun, and a hand saw (or powered saw).  

"How do you hang fencing or other attachments from the Columns?"
Easy!  There are pockets along each side of each Column.  Simply slide a 2x6" board  into the pocket on the side of the Column to which you'll be attaching.  By doing so you can add fencing, plant hangers, or almost anything else you might wish to attach.

"Will these Columns blow away?  Will they be secure?"
No, they won't blow away, and yes, they will be secure.  During installation, adhesive is applied to the 4"x4" post, and the Column slips over that.  Once the Column is in place, screws are driven through the mounting mounting flange and into the 4"x4" post.  If installed properly the Column will not move.

"Why should I buy your Column instead of having one built?"
Our Columns can be substantially less expensive.  You won't need to hire a costly masonry contractor to build your Column.  You won't need to have heavy machinery driving on your lawn.  You won't need to lift and cut any heavy bricks.  You won't need to install a special foundation.  And, as an added bonus, our Columns can be installed in just an hour or two.  

"Our town does not allow masonry mailboxes.  Will yours be ok?"
Probably.  Check with your municipality first.  In most cases our Columns are allowed for roadside use (where masonry mailboxes are not).  Our Columns are not a roadside hazard since they will break away in a crash.  Remember, despite appearances, there's no concrete tower inside - just a 4"x4" post!

"If I order one of the Columns from Summit, how long will it take to arrive?"
If we have your Column in stock then count on 3-6 business days for arrival.  If your Column must be manufactured, please allow about 7 business days plus an additional 3-5 business days for truck shipping.

"Are your Columns covered by a warranty?"
Yes.  Columns are covered by a limited, prorated and transferable warranty.  In short, the Columns are warranted against manufacturing defects, absorbing excess moisture, and resistance to wood boring insects for a period of 20 years following its installation.  See the official warranty for full details.



Still have questions you'd like answered?  Please feel free to contact us any time!