Flashing cap and stabilizer for architectural columns

Abstract

This disclosure relates generally to structural columns used in both residential and commercial construction. The disclosure describes a fabricated cap for columns and column capitals that provides flashing protection to the column from deterioration through exposure to the elements, lateral support to the column at its upper end and proper alignment of the column's decorative capital. The disclosure is of novel design such that interfitting keys are provided which prevent the encroachment of external elements—rain, debris, insects, etc.—into the top of the interior shaft of the hollow column, thereby protecting against decay of the axial support strength of the column, which provide significant support to the column to resist lateral forces that may be applied to and cause the displacement of the upper end of the column from its desired position and which provide a means for aligning the column's decorative capital relative to the supported structure.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.