Alumawood Post Bases – Do You Need Them?
Alumabase post caps are an optional accessory designed for homeowners who want their posts to resemble the look of traditional architectural column capitals. The post base caps are added to the standard Alumawood H-Posts. If you prefer a more decorative touch, these caps may be the right choice for you.
What Are Alumabase Post Bases?
Post-base caps are trim pieces that fit around the base or top of your Alumawood patio cover H-Post. They function similarly to crown molding in interior design. These post bases are inspired by classic architectural columns, often seen in older homes and traditional designs.
Are Post Bases Necessary for Alumawood Patio Covers?
No, post bases are completely optional. Alumawood posts are designed to be fully functional and structurally sound without them, they're just trim.
Material and Durability
Alumabase post caps are crafted from durable ASA plastic (acrylonitrile styrene acrylate), known for its weather and UV resistance. While the Alumawood patio cover features a limited lifetime warranty on its paint finish, the post caps come with a 2-year warranty. The ASA plastic is colored throughout, ensuring that minor scuffs or scratches remain inconspicuous.
Single Beam: Uses a base cap at the bottom of the post.
Double Beam: The same base cap can be flipped upside down and used at the top of the post, commonly called a "crown cap."
Installation Ease
Designed for straightforward installation, the base caps feature a two-piece design that wraps around the post and sideplates, secured with screws. Typically, each cap can be installed in 5-10 minutes.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 10” Length x 9.5” Width x 3.875” Height
- Wall Thickness: 0.175″
- Color Options: Available in seven popular Alumawood colors to match your patio cover.
Choosing the Right Post Option for Your Patio Cover
- Standard Post (Most Popular): Offers a clean and modern look, aligning with contemporary design preferences. No additional accessories are required.
- Premium Modern Post: Features a more substantial design with a 3" x 8" post sideplate, providing a bold and robust appearance without the need for extra trim.
- Standard Post with Alumabase Post Caps: Ideal for those who appreciate a traditional, column-like aesthetic. The addition of post caps offers a classic touch to the patio cover.
Final Thoughts
There was a time when large, decorative columns—round or square—were a common choice for patio covers. In fact, Alumawood once offered 8x8 and 10x10 square and round decorative columns, but as design trends evolved, these options were discontinued in favor of more streamlined, modern structures.
For homeowners who still appreciate that classic column-inspired look, Alumabase post caps provide an alternative way to achieve that aesthetic without the cost and bulk of full columns.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal style preferences. Whether you opt for the standard Alumawood posts, the premium larger posts, or the standard posts with Alumabase post caps, each option offers unique benefits to enhance your outdoor space.
Need help choosing the right option? Contact us today to discuss your patio cover design.