Thread: How are gable finials attached?

Not a problem Ross

We've just had the finials replaced on some townhouses.
I spoke to the suppliers and it doesn't look like there are any hard and fast rules about how to attach them.
The photos show how they were installed originally , how they rotted away over 15 or so years and how they are attached now. Originally, the lower fixing was at the shaft of the finial (presumably for strength and visual appearance) but now it is attached at the ball!! Does anyone know if attaching it to the ball makes any sense - seems to defeat the purpose of having a shape on the lower end as it can hardly be seen. They were replaced by a painter and not a qualified carpenter.


. 1. Initial installation.jpg2. Rotting finials.jpg3. Final installation.JPG

Originally Posted by Artline

We've just had the finials replaced on some townhouses.
I spoke to the suppliers and it doesn't look like there are any hard and fast rules about how to attach them.
The photos show how they were installed originally , how they rotted away over 15 or so years and how they are attached now. Originally, the lower fixing was at the shaft of the finial (presumably for strength and visual appearance) but now it is attached at the ball!! Does anyone know if attaching it to the ball makes any sense - seems to defeat the purpose of having a shape on the lower end as it can hardly be seen. They were replaced by a painter and not a qualified carpenter.


1. Initial installation.jpg 2. Rotting finials.jpg 3. Final installation.JPG

visually, the ball should be below the bottom rail.

Looks like your painter has bought a finial that sort of fits.
It's probably made of untreated pine -- as was the original, by the extent of the rot.

should you worry?
You'll probably need to replace it within 10 years, but if the town houses are rentals, or are being readied for sale ...

If a carpenter had one the replacement I'd definitely insist on it being fixed, but it was your painter who presumably was looking for a quick fix ...