Q. I am working on a new deck and would like to cover up a 6-by-6 post with cedar. What is the best way to get this to look seamless, like a solid cedar post?
A. Pick out four of the straightest and flattest 1-by-10 cedar boards you can find. Use a table saw to rip 45-degree outside miters along the edges of each board. Install the four sides wrapping the post, making sure the miter joints line up at the edge. Glue and finish-nail the corners very carefully. Run the edge of a nail set along the seams to close the wood grain. Seal any open cracks that may turn up using caulk colored to match the finish.
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