Ideas, advice & outdoor living
Koppers Log Posts
Understand natural cracks and checks in Koppers log posts, the signs that need closer assessment, cosmetic maintenance and alternative Bali hut post options.
Cracks in Coppers Log Post
To put it simply "Coppers Log Round Post that does not crack does not exist in Australia"
Bali Huts are a very Natural product made from all natural materials; timber, bamboo, grass and sisal ropes.
There is always a balance between price and quality. Brisbane Thatch and Decks strive to give our clients the best possible quality for the best possible price.
Unfortunately due to high demand and scarcity plus the fact that there is basically just one supplier in South East Queensland for coppers log post there is no affordable alternative. Due to the high demand the post are not left to dry out properly by the suppliers before it is sold and distributed. The same is true for Bunnings timber sleepers, fencing rails, fencing post and palings.
Brisbane Thatch and Decks always try keep post in stock for minimum six months to dry out before we install or sell it. Unfortunately some times even with our best intentions the post will crack.
To be really honest there is not a Bali hut in Queensland or New South Whales that was build with coppers log post that does not have any cracks in it. Even if another company install the Balinese huts we all use exactly the same Coppers log post. If you buy your coppers log post from Bunnings or any landscaper you still get exactly the same coppers log round or square post. It will also show some cracks after a few years.
We at Brisbane Thatch and Decks also notice that cracks appear more frequent in summer than in winter simply because the coppers logs dry out much faster in summer than in the cooler months.
We have had several engineers assessing the cracks in the past from as early as 2002 and they all confirmed that it is only cosmetic and the post is still structurally sound.
Since 2002 we have not had one post that failed structurally.
It is only cosmetic.
On the positive side. It is only cosmetic and can be easily fix with some acrylic sealer and a fresh coat of paint. Plus Coppers Logs save our clients a bucket load of cash as a affordable alternative to Merbau and Hardwood post, that can also crack.
Alternative to Coppers Log Post
For our clients that would want a premium quality post. We do provide a alternative.
Merbau (Kwila) laminated post is very expensive but super well cured and dressed. Merbau post have to be installed on metal brackets and can not be concreted in ground like coppers log post that is H5 treated and will survive for 50 years plus in ground.
Please see photo's for sizes and 2019 prices of Laminated Merbau Post.
If you want Merbau post we can most certainly give you a quote on them.
Expo 88 Nepalese Peace Pergola
Timber is a natural product, and even with the best intentions in the world, it can still crack. A classic example is the Expo 88 Nepalese Peace Pergola at South Bank. It is an amazing handcrafted structure, yet you will find cracks in its timber.
Timber cracks because it is a natural product. Yet, because of the love and care given to this structure, people do not insist that it be replaced. These natural features do not diminish the value of the Nepalese Pergola. People still love and enjoy it.
Cosmetic maintenance
How to fix cracks in the post, if needed
First allow a newly installed post time to dry and settle. Filling it too early can lead to more work if the opening changes as the timber continues to move.
- 1. Confirm it is cosmetic. If you are unsure, have the post assessed before filling or sanding it.
- 2. Clean and prepare the opening. The timber should be dry and free from loose material so the selected filler can bond.
- 3. Use a compatible flexible filler. Follow its instructions for depth, curing time and weather exposure. A timber or coating supplier can confirm compatibility with the existing treatment and stain.
- 4. Finish and recoat. Once fully cured, trim or sand the repair carefully and apply the compatible stain or coating to the complete area.
Do not conceal active decay, termite activity, movement or a structural split with filler. Those conditions need assessment and a repair plan suited to the post and its connections.
Concerned about a Bali hut post?
Tell us your suburb, when the post was installed and whether the crack has changed. Add the project details to our enquiry form, then email close and wide photos for Johan to review.