These old posts are slowly rotting (slightly) from the bottom up. The moisture creeps up.
Best way to maintain them? I don't have the means to jack the verandah up to work on them.
Hi @lizk,
This issue is occurring because the timber is in direct contact with the concrete. Consequently, water can be wicked from the concrete up into the post. The only way to prevent this from happening is to separate the timber from the concrete, which would require you to support any structure that is above, remove the post, cut it so there is separation between the post and the ground, then reinstall it with shims beneath to support the post.
If during this process it is found that more of the post is rotted than expected, affecting the structural integrity of the post, then it would be wise to replace it.
Unfortunately, any lesser efforts would not be effective as long as the post is touching the concrete. You may have to speak with handy person or carpenter for their assistance with this.
Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.
Jacob
Thanks. Actually the post is not in direct contact with the cement. It may have been at one stage. I can feel under the ppst with my finger amd it doesn't feel too bad. If I used wood hardener, could I then fill with bog and paint
Good Afternoon @lizk
I wouldnt use a wood harderner as a first step. You cant see underneath so cant judge what is happening too well.
Id be tempted to use a multitool and cut off 1cm from the base (making sure there is no screws going into the post at that point) and once you have new timber then get a small mirror and have a look. if it appears to not be rotted or that discoloration we associate with the first stages of rotting then the timber hardener for sure. Not 100% sure if I would use builders bog without seeing what is underneath. I would oil the base tho after the timer hardener.
Dave
Ok. What multi tool would you recommend? I need to buy some tools. Thanks
Hello @lizk
Let me tag @Dave-1 to make them aware of your query. If you have any of the Ryobi or Ozito cordless tool sets, I suggest looking at the Ryobi 18V ONE+ Multi Tool or the Ozito PXC 18V Cordless Multi Function Tool PXMFTS-018. These are tool only sets and you can use your existing battery (depending on which one you have) to operate these tools.
However, if this is the first tool you'll be purchasing, I suggest looking at the Ozito PXC 18V Compact Multi Function Tool Kit PCMFK-200 as an affordable starter set.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
Good afternoon @lizk
Something along the lines of
https://www.bunnings.com.au/ozito-300w-multi-function-tool-mfr-2200_p6290554
I like Ozito as it does the job and its cheap. There are a range of blades that you can purchase as well plus a battery version.
I would definently practice with it first on an offcut before attempting your posts as you want a tidy cut. Once you are happy/confidant then have a go at the post.
I actually dont have a multitool :) I have come close to needing one but end up using a chisel/handsaw/hacksaw/drills to get a workaround. The tidiest cut for your post would be a multitool.
G'day Dave @Dave-1
"I actually dont have a multitool :)"
I remember the first time I saw one of these tools was on an episode of Better Homes and Gardens - circa 2009 (if my memory is correct). It was a very excited Rob Palmer who showed it to the telly audience back then, in particular using it to cut out door architrave for floating floor.
https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-d&q=Rob+Palmer
I was sold on the idea and rushed to Bunnings the next day. All sold out due to the programme. They were a Bosch and around $178. I eventually bought one, but If I'm honest with myself - I never used it for 10 years. Russell Coight would say - "that's nearly a decade!"
When it came to lay floating floor in my house I ended up using a panel saw and a piece of floating floor scrap.
Go figure.
Evening @Noyade
:) I remember seeing that episode! lol And I didnt trust the whole idea of that tool. Really didnt think it would work but over the years I have seen improvements and improvements in cutting blades, The main reason I dont have one yet is $$$, I keep spending mine on material not on a tool that would make life easier. Until I get to a situation like this where the cost benifit outweighs the "pain in the neck hgardness factor" and then I will be off to Bunnings quick smart :)
