PRO TIP!


Are you using a sono tube to make pillars for a pond dock?


Here's how we transform them to look like wood!

Below is a summary of key tips that are outlined in this video.  To watch this video in it's entirety, click on the video - and be sure to leave your comments

The transcript from the YouTube video titled "How To Make Concrete Pillars Look Like Wood!!" by Columbia Water Gardens.

This video, by Carl from Columbia Water Gardens, demonstrates a step-by-step technique for applying and texturing concrete onto pillars to achieve a realistic faux wood grain appearance.

Summary of How to Make Concrete Pillars Look Like Wood

1. Preparation and Concrete Consistency

  • Concrete Mix: The concrete must be mixed to a thick consistency—slightly thicker than what easily flows through the fingers—to ensure it sticks to the vertical surface [00:00:26].
  • Post Preparation: It is crucial to thoroughly wet the post down before application. If the post is not wet, it will suck moisture from the concrete, preventing it from sticking [00:02:03].
  • Safety: Always wear gloves, as concrete can quickly dry out and burn the hands [00:00:10].

2. Application Techniques

  • Layers: Apply the concrete by hand in thin layers (about 1/4 inch thick)[00:03:47]. Working in layers helps achieve the appearance of multiple layers of bark[00:04:04].
  • Timing: Do not apply to the whole pillar at once; it dries too fast, making it hard to apply patterns and losing the layered bark effect [00:05:14].
  • Detailing: Any material that falls to the ground can be gathered and used to create knot holes and clumps on the pillar [00:03:31].

3. Texturing and Finishing

  • Stamping: When using a stamp, keep the concrete good and wet to prevent the stamp from dragging and pulling the concrete off the post [00:06:27].
  • Patterning: Drag the stamp uphill and apply nonlinear or wiggly lines to avoid a linear look [00:07:33]. Different stamps can be mashed in to create effects like a broken-off tree trunk [00:08:28].
  • Feathering: Use a paintbrush to feather in and smooth down the final lines, knocking down some of the sand for a better finish [00:10:09].

Video Details: