The Ultimate Guide to Gun Barrel Pilings®: The Perfect Choice for Aesthetics and Strength
When it comes to architectural columns and structural poles, Gun Barrel Pilings® are the ideal choice for those seeking both strength and aesthetics. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about Gun Barrel Pilings®, from their cost-effectiveness to their installation process and durability. Whether you’re working on an exterior or interior project, Gun Barrel Pilings® offer a unique combination of beauty and functionality.
1. The Cost-Effective Solution for Architectural Columns
Gun Barrel Pilings® are a cost-effective alternative to traditional architectural columns. In fact, they are even more affordable than square timbers and pilings in most sizes. This makes them an attractive option for projects where budget is a concern. Despite their affordability, Gun Barrel Pilings® do not compromise on quality or strength.
2. Impressive Lengths and Diameters
Gun Barrel Pilings® are available in impressive lengths of up to 52 feet and diameters up to 20 inches. This makes them suitable for a wide range of applications, from small-scale projects to large architectural designs. Whether you need them for residential or commercial purposes, Gun Barrel Pilings® can meet your requirements.
3. Easier Design and Installation
One of the major advantages of Gun Barrel Pilings® is their uniform dimension. Unlike common poles and pilings, which can have irregular and varying diameters, Gun Barrel Pilings® offer consistency in size. This uniformity simplifies the design and installation process, saving you time and effort. With Gun Barrel Pilings®, you can be confident that your materials will match your design plans perfectly.
4. No Squaring Required
Square timbers and pilings often need to be squared to ensure proper alignment and connection to other structures. This can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive task. However, Gun Barrel Pilings® eliminate the need for squaring. Their uniformly round shape means they can be easily installed without the hassle of squaring. This not only saves time but also reduces the risk of errors during installation.
5. Versatile Material Options
Gun Barrel Pilings® are available in a variety of wood options, including southern yellow pine, white pine, western red cedar, white cedar, and oak. Each wood type has its own unique characteristics, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your project’s requirements. Whether you prefer the durability of cedar or the timeless elegance of oak, Gun Barrel Pilings® can be customized to your specifications.
6. Suitable for Any Project, Any Treatment Level 
Gun Barrel poles and pilings can be treated for exterior and marine projects or left untreated for interior applications. This versatility allows you to use Gun Barrel Pilings® in a wide range of environments. If you require additional protection for your pilings, they can be coated with a special polymer coating that doubles their lifespan. This is particularly beneficial for projects near water, as Gun Barrel Pilings® are less susceptible to damage from termites and marine borers.
7. Exceptional Durability in Water
Gun Barrel Pilings® are an excellent choice for projects in or near water. Their round shape allows water to flow smoothly around them, reducing the risk of loosening or weakening the foundation of homes or piers. Unlike square timbers, which can develop low-pressure areas that compromise their stability, Gun Barrel Pilings® are designed to withstand the impact of storm surges. This makes them particularly suitable for beach home pilings in areas prone to hurricanes and tropical storms.
8. Strength and Beauty Combined
Gun Barrel Pilings® offer the best of both worlds: strength and beauty. While they are stronger than square pilings of comparable sizes, they also provide the refined and uniform appearance of square timbers. This combination of strength and aesthetics makes Gun Barrel Pilings® a popular choice for architectural columns and structural poles.
9. Finishing Options for Customization
Gun Barrel Pilings® offer a range of finishing options to suit your project’s aesthetic requirements. Whether you prefer the antique hand-hewn look, a distressed finish, or a smooth sanded surface, Gun Barrel Pilings® can be customized to your liking. Additionally, they can be stained or painted in your choice of brand and color, allowing you to achieve the desired look for your project.
10. Expert Consultation and Customization
At American Pole & Timber, we understand that every project is unique. That’s why we offer expert consultation to help you choose the right Gun Barrel Pilings® for your specific needs. Our knowledgeable project consultants can provide guidance on wood options, finishing choices, and installation methods. With our custom-made Gun Barrel Pilings®, you can be confident that your project will have the perfect combination of strength, durability, and aesthetics.
The Smart Choice When Aesthetics and Strength Matter
Gun Barrel Pilings® are the ideal choice for those seeking a cost-effective, durable, and aesthetically pleasing solution for architectural columns and structural poles. With their uniform dimensions, versatility in wood options, and range of finishing choices, Gun Barrel Pilings® offer endless possibilities for customization. Whether you’re working on an interior or exterior project, Gun Barrel Pilings® provide the strength and beauty you desire. Contact our expert project consultants today to discuss your project and get a quote for your Gun Barrel Pilings®.