Post #205085 by MrBaliHai on Sat, Dec 31, 2005 5:38 AM

As far as filling the crack, you are better off leaving it.

That was definitely my first choice, but since it went all the way around the circumference of the post, I was concerned that the entire base might fall off over time if I didn't do something to at least stabilize it and keep it from widening any further. Good idea about coating the crack with varnish, but what's done is done, so I guess I have to live with the filler. The wood glue I used seeped into the crack around the base, so I'm hoping that will prevent the base from detaching from the rest of the post, or at least slow the process down somewhat.

One thing I forgot to mention is that the post was covered with icky white mold when I took it out of the packing material. The crack was filled with it. I removed as much as I could with a bleach dilution, but I won't be surprised if it comes back.

I'm glad to hear so many people liking the overall look. When I started this project, I only drew up dimensional plans for the bar, the walls, and the general layout, so I really didn't know if it was all going to pull together into a coherent whole until I was almost finished. The art, lighting, and color scheme were critical elements that I gave a lot of thought to as well. Building in the basement of an older home is always an adventure, and plans change as you encounter unexpected things.