Need Help Supporting Narrow Columns

[Terrormaster]

The plan is (providing the availability of time and money) is to build three 8' columns that's 1x1. So the columns will be tall and narrow. Since they will be in the drive way I can't support them with a stake or rebar. Two will be against the wall panels lining the right side of the driveway so they'll get SOME support from the walls (especially if I secure them to the walls). But the other is free standing. Obviously I don't want it to fall over on anyone.

We typically don't get any high winds beyond maybe a gust of 10mph tops if that on Halloween night. But even that could probably blow it over. I'm looking for a good way to secure a free standing narrow column that's sitting on a driveway.

Something similar to this is what I'm going for (from Hallowed Haunting Grounds):

http://www.hauntinggrounds.org/chapelpics/hhg04cm2.jpg

Any advice would greatly be appreciated.

[joker]

What are you going to build them out of?

Maybe put bricks or similar in the bottom of them?

[Terrormaster]

1x2's and 1/4" osb.

Do I close off the bottom and just slide em in from the top? Or do I stack the bricks and stick the column over it? I know Hallowed Haunting Grounds uses rocks but the also shoved 10' poles into the ground and u-strapped the columns to em. But there's is also over grass.

[joker]

yeah I was thinking the bottom would be closed.

You could make an access panel near the bottom where you could open or remove a piece and slide the bricks or whatever in that way.

Or I guess you could drop them in from the top. Maybe tilt the column over until you get the weight you need and then stand it back up.

[The_Caretaker]

you will need a bottom on the column that is well secured. i would leave a access door for the bricks of bags of sand/pea gravel

[Terrormaster]

Perfect! If I can't stake it, weigh it down. Thanks much. I'll post pics when I finish it.

[Devils Chariot]

yeah i was gonna say coffee can full of concrete. I think weighing it down is the way to go.

[Terrormaster]

Considering the frame, think a cinder block or two hold it?

[Devils Chariot]

I say weight it down till it gets the weeble effect, where it wants to rock back to center if you give it a bump.

[scary rick]

how about a 5 gallon pail. fill it with water and put it's lid on. when you are done, dump the water. light and easy to store.

[Jaybo]

I would go the bag of sand route. They are very heavy, cheap to buy, and can also be used to help texture your paint.