Specifications
& Test Data
Proven Performance. Real-World Confidence.
Engineered, tested and proven for strength, stability and long-term performance
Prime Columns have been developed to provide a structural wood column option that is much stronger than traditional solid sawn timbers without the natural splitting, twisting and movement experienced with a solid timber. Prime Columns are pressure treated to .23 pounds per cubic foot using a micronized copper azole wood preservative. The .23 retention is recommended by the ESR-2240 ICC Evaluation Report as the retention for "Critical Structures" and is a much higher treatment level than typical pressure treated products. Additionally, the treated wood is kiln dried after treatment to provide stability, durability and an aesthetically handsome structural wood column option.
Dimensions & Sizes
Prime Columns are available in a range of sizes.
• Sizes fit with available hardware and handrail options.
• Hollow center provides a channel for hidden structural connections and wiring.
• Each column is individually wrapped with a poly tube. *Excluding 4x4 columns.
| Square Columns (Standard Sizes) |
Net Size | Lengths | Design Load | Actual Load (Test Result) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 × 4 Hollow | 3-1/2" × 3-1/2" | 8' · 10' · 12’ · 16’ | 6,000 lbs. | 38,000 lbs. |
| 4 × 4 Solid | 3-1/2" × 3-1/2" | 8' · 10' · 12’ · 16’ | 6,000 lbs. | 29,000 lbs. |
| 6 × 6 Hollow | 5-1/2" × 5-1/2" | 8' · 10' · 12' · 16' | 12,000 lbs. | 102,000 lbs. |
| 8 × 8 Hollow | 6-3/4" × 6-3/4" | 8' · 10' · 12' · 16' | 24,000 lbs. | 193,000 lbs. |
| 10 × 10 Hollow | 8-3/4" × 8-3/4" | 10' · 12’ · 16’ | 24,000 lbs. | 197,000 lbs. |
| 12 × 12 Hollow | 10-3/4" × 10-3/4" | 10' · 12’ · 16’ | 24,000 lbs. | 197,000 lbs. |
Pressure Treatment - The AWPA has developed a set of use categories for specifying treatments and retentions. Specifically with regards to the treatment on MCA, there are two retentions for ground contact. They are 0.15 pounds per cubic foot and 0.23 pounds per cubic foot. These retentions are further defined by use. The 0.15 retention uses the designation UC4A which is described as “Ground Contact General Use”. These are listed as Non-Critical components. The 0.23 retention uses the designation UC4B, which is described as “Ground Contact Heavy Duty” and is further associated with Critical Components or Difficult Replacement. In cases where columns are supporting porch roofs and other “critical components”, the prudent choice would be the 0.23 retention.
Structural Performance
• ESR-2240 ICC Evaluation Report.
• .23 retention for Critical Structures (AWPA use category UC4B).
• Strength test results show structural capacities up to 10.5 times greater than recommended design loads for available hardware.
• Greater load capacity compared to solid sawn timbers.
Durability
• Treated with an exterior structural adhesive system for enhanced strength and durability.
• Kiln dried after treatment (KDAT) for lighter weight and maximum stability.
• End sealed with a hybrid wax-emulsion product.
• Resists termites and fungal decay.
• Suitable for demanding exterior environments.
Finishing Requirements
• Prime and paint, or stain immediately (no waiting).
• Designed to accept a wide range of high-quality finishes.
• We are pleased to recommend a staining system using Waterlox® products.
Environmental Sustainability
• Produced using superior grade Southern Yellow Pine graded for strength, density and appearance.
• Southern Yellow Pine is a renewable and sustainable raw material.
• A responsible choice for a better future.
Warranty Information
• Limited lifetime warranty for damage resulting from termites or fungal decay
Engineering Documents
• ESR-2240 ICC Evaluation Report
• Structural Test Data
• Load Capacities
Questions about your next project?
Our column experts can help you choose the right column
and connect you with a dealer near you.