Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - Straightening a warped 4x4 deck post

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janicek
08-10-08, 01:26 PM
I've straightened a warped 4x4 post on my deck with a combination of a comealong and an 8-foot 4x6 brace that is clamped to the warped 4x4.

It sure looks nice now, and I'd like for it to stay that way. However, I'd eventually like to remove the 4x6 brace assuming the 4x4 will "unwarp". So I guess my question is, will the 4x4 eventually unwarp? Should I hose it down and let the hot Texas summer sun bake it back into a straight post? And how long should I keep the 4x6 clamped to it?

Thanks in advance for any help!

http://photos.janicek.com/albums/20080808_Fixinthedeck/2008-08-09_1423.png

http://photos.janicek.com/albums/20080808_Fixinthedeck/IMG_0365.jpg

http://photos.janicek.com/albums/20080808_Fixinthedeck/IMG_0369.jpg

http://photos.janicek.com/albums/20080808_Fixinthedeck/IMG_0371.jpg

http://photos.janicek.com/albums/20080808_Fixinthedeck/IMG_0377.jpg

Bill62
08-10-08, 01:45 PM
It is unlikely that the post will stay straight no matter what you do. Those posts are not that expensive, why not just replace it?
janicek
08-10-08, 02:54 PM
I might just have to if this method fails. I figured that straightening it this way might work.

Speedwrench
08-10-08, 07:36 PM
the only way to straighten the 4x4 would be to steam it and use a bender to bend the opposite way, just replace it with a straight 4x4 and be done with it.

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