2

Why is there a three inch pipe filled with concrete sticking out of my garage floor? We've ruled out the obvious explanations: missle launcher, coffee table, NSA listening post, and Mario shortcut.

So what is it, and more importantly, can it be removed?

picture of pole

Edit: Thanks, Alaska Man, for providing the name of the thing: bollard.

Improve this question
6
  • How old is house? Did it once have an oil furnace?
    – Wayfaring Stranger
    Commented Jul 13, 2013 at 20:53
  • It was built in 2000.
    – Patrick McElhaney
    Commented Jul 13, 2013 at 20:59
  • 4
    So not oil tank. Does it protect the hot water heater, or whatever that is behind it, from being whacked by an automobile?
    – Wayfaring Stranger
    Commented Jul 13, 2013 at 21:04
  • That's what I've always assumed. I'm wondering whether it could be removed, if for example, a wall closed off that part of the garage.
    – Patrick McElhaney
    Commented Jul 13, 2013 at 21:24
  • 1
    It is called a "Bollard", specifically an impact resistant bollard.
    – Alaska Man
    Commented Mar 1, 2020 at 18:37

2 Answers 2

Reset to default
13

This is to protect vehicles from damaging gas appliances that lie beyond. This is a code requirement in many jurisdictions, probably including yours, as most builders don't do anything they don't have to.

Improve this answer
2
  • 2
    "most builders don't do anything they don't have to." Including apparently making appliance protection posts cosmetically attractive. :)
    – Steve Fallows
    Commented Jul 13, 2013 at 23:30
  • 2
    Yep, somebody should have primed it and painted it at least. White or grey would have been acceptable.
    – Fiasco Labs
    Commented Jul 14, 2013 at 0:14
0

Mine are perfectly square and painted black. I have one which protects the water heater and one on the other side protecting the furnace. I am sure code requires them, as I do not believe a builder would add anything that is not required. Just slap some paint on it to make it a bit more aesthetically pleasing.

Improve this answer
1
  • So you have an opinion about them because you trust builders. That's not really an answer - and I suggest your faith may be a little too high...
    – The Evil Greebo
    Commented Jul 14, 2014 at 10:42

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.