Why Wood Column Replication Matters

Wood column replication is helpful for homeowners, contractors, and preservationists who need to match original architectural details. If you have a column that has decayed, been damaged, or needs updating, replicating the original design is possible.

At H. Arnold Wood Turning, we specialize in replicating both interior and exterior wood columns. We often need nothing more than a photograph, drawing, or a partial reference piece to make it happen!

From porch columns to decorative interior features, our family-run team can recreate exact wood column profiles, turnings, and dimensions.

How the Wood Column Replication Process Works

To replicate a wood column, we start with reference material. This could be a physical sample, a clear photograph, or a detailed sketch with dimensions. From there, our team reverse-engineers the original design and translates it into a custom turning pattern using machinery.

Often, these columns are turned from solid blanks on our high-capacity lathes. Once the shape is matched and approved, we sand, finish, or seal the column depending on whether it will be used indoors or outdoors.

Every step of the process is tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re restoring a historic building or replacing one damaged by weather, we ensure your column replication is accurate, stable, and beautiful.

Shown below: actual step-by-step images from one of our wood column replication projects.

The initial stage of manufacturing a wooden column.

Wood Column Manufacturing Process – Step 1

Step 1: The beginning of the wood column manufacturing process.

A partially assembled wooden column showing the second step in the manufacturing process.

Wood Column Manufacturing Process – Step 2

Step 2: The wood column manufacturing process continues with precise assembly and shaping.

Step 3 of the wood column manufacturing process, showing the shaping and refinement of the column design.

Wood Column Manufacturing Process – Step 3

Step 3: Refining the shape of a wooden column during the reproduction process.

Common Requests and Applications

We frequently replicate wood columns for historic porch and veranda restoration, interior architectural upgrades, replacing rotted or compromised columns, matching older millwork for consistency, creating paired columns for symmetrical designs, and more.

If your goal is to restore curb appeal, meet preservation standards or requirements, or improve your existing space, we can replicate wood columns to match nearly any style or period.

White oak stave columns featuring an entasis taper, designed for interior use and stain-grade applications.

White Oak Stave Columns with Entasis Taper

White oak stave columns with entasis taper, crafted for interior use.

Why Clients Trust Arnold Wood Turning for Custom Column Work

H. Arnold Wood Turning has been producing architectural woodwork since 1919. Our team has decades of experience in historical replication, small-batch custom production, and full-scale manufacturing.

Many of our column replication projects come from clients who need to match exact turnings from 80 to 150 years ago. In other cases, we work with restoration architects who provide shop drawings or reference pieces for us to reproduce. Whatever the need, we apply experienced craftsmanship and careful material selection to every project.

We also offer finishing, sealing, and secondary services like painting, CNC detailing, or carving as needed.

Start Your Wood Column Replication Today

We’re here to help you restore or replicate the wood columns your project requires.

Request a free, no-obligation estimate today. Send us your reference photos, measurements, or questions, and we’ll walk you through the next steps.