In the process of reflooring my covered porch with T&G ipe, I had to remove the wood columns. The columns rest on the decking.
Question is whether to caulk where the columns meet the deck or not?
- Advantages: Makes the joint look better and fills gaps Keeps water out?
- Disadvantages: Keeps water in?
One compromise would be to caulk along 3 sides, leaving the "downstream" (i.e. pitched down) side uncaulked.
Any suggestions?
The columns are solid wood turnings with a 7x7 square base (integral to the column itself) consisting of a solid 6x6 core and 1/2 facing around the edges. I have restored them so that they are now in quite excellent condition.