Careo 7014 Hybrid Aluminum & WPC Architectural Element (3 1/2” x 3 1/2”)

The Careo 7014 is a hybrid aluminum WPC square column from Geolam’s Careo architectural elements family, measuring 3½” × 3½” (88 mm × 88 mm). Manufactured through a precision co-extrusion process, the profile bonds a structural anodized aluminum alloy core (A6063S-T5, Series 6000) with a sanded wood/polypropylene composite (WPC) outer skin that faithfully replicates the warmth and grain texture of stained hardwood. The result is an architectural square post that delivers authentic wood aesthetics without the upkeep demands of natural timber. Non-combustible per ASTM E-136, the Careo 7014 is engineered for demanding commercial environments and is equally suited to exterior façades, pergola systems, sunshade structures, and decorative column applications.

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Key Benefits

Authentic Wood Appearance	The sanded WPC outer skin delivers a genuine wood-grain texture and warm tonal depth that closely replicates stained hardwood, making the Careo 7014 indistinguishable from natural timber in finished architectural applications.
Non-Combustible	Certified non-combustible per ASTM E-136 (appendix), the Careo 7014 meets stringent fire safety requirements for commercial and high-rise projects where code compliance and occupant safety are paramount.
Zero Maintenance	Unlike natural hardwood, the Careo 7014 requires no staining, sealing, or painting over its lifetime. The co-extruded hybrid aluminum WPC square column resists moisture, UV fading, and weathering without any periodic treatment.
Performance	The anodized aluminum alloy A6063S-T5 core provides outstanding dimensional stability and resistance to thermal movement, with a low thermal expansion coefficient of 23.4 μm/m/°C ensuring consistent alignment in exterior installations across seasonal temperature swings.
Custom Lengths	Available in custom lengths from 7 ft to 19 ft 8 in (2.15 m to 6 m), the Careo 7014 can be specified to exact project dimensions, eliminating on-site cutting waste and enabling clean, unjointed runs on tall façades and column applications.

Applications

Full Technical Specifications

Available Finishes

Standard Colors (min. 1,000 lineal ft)

Sanded wood-grain finishes that replicate the look of stained hardwood. Sanding finish and shading may vary between production runs.

Non-Standard Colors (min. 5,000 lineal ft, 90-day lead time)

Custom colors available (min. 6,000 lineal ft). Sanding finish and shading may vary between production runs.

Installation Overview

Fastening options	The Careo 7014 can be face-fastened using stainless steel or coated screws driven through pre-drilled pilot holes, or concealed using compatible aluminum clip systems. Always pre-drill to prevent splitting and maintain alignment.
Cutting	Cut with a fine-tooth carbide-tipped blade suitable for aluminum composite profiles. Use standard miter or circular saw equipment. Deburr cut ends before installation for a clean finish.
Expansion gaps	Allow a minimum expansion gap at each board end to accommodate thermal movement. Refer to the Geolam Architectural Elements Installation Guide for project-specific gap calculations based on anticipated temperature range.
End caps	WPC or ASA end caps are available for the Careo 7014 to provide a finished appearance on exposed ends. Adhere using Sikaflex Crystal Clear or 3M DP-8010 adhesive.
Connectors	Consult the Geolam Architectural Elements Installation Guide for compatible connector hardware and subframe specifications for your specific application. Visit usa.geolam.com/resources/cad-drawings/ for CAD details.

Hybrid Aluminum/WPC vs Traditional Wood

Feature	Geolam Careo 7014	Traditional Hardwood
Maintenance	Zero — no staining, sealing, or painting ever required	Regular sanding, staining, and sealing required every 1–3 years
Fire Resistance	Non-combustible — ASTM E-136 certified	Combustible — requires fire retardant treatment for most commercial codes
Performance	Dimensionally stable aluminum alloy core resists warping and thermal movement	Prone to warping, cracking, and movement with moisture and temperature changes
Rot and Insects	Fully resistant — aluminum/WPC composition is impervious to rot and insects	Susceptible to rot, mold, and insect damage without chemical treatment
Thermal Expansion	Predictable and low — 23.4 μm/m/°C, easily accommodated in design	Variable and high — significant movement with humidity and temperature fluctuations
Custom Lengths	Available from 7 ft to 19 ft 8 in (2.15 m to 6 m) to exact specification	Limited by natural timber lengths; custom milling adds cost and lead time
Lifespan	Decades of service life with no degradation in appearance or performance	Lifespan significantly reduced without ongoing maintenance; prone to premature deterioration

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Careo 7014 made of?	The Careo 7014 is a hybrid aluminum WPC square column co-extruded with an anodized aluminum alloy core (A6063S-T5, Series 6000) and a wood/polypropylene composite (WPC) outer skin that provides a sanded, wood-grain aesthetic surface.
Is it fire-rated?	Yes. The Careo 7014 is certified non-combustible per ASTM E-136 (appendix), making it suitable for commercial, multi-family, and institutional projects with strict fire code requirements.
Are custom lengths available?	Yes. The Careo 7014 can be ordered in custom lengths from 7 ft to 19 ft 8 in (2.15 m to 6 m) to suit your project’s precise requirements, with a standard stocking length of 9 ft 10 in (3.0 m).
What finishes are available?	Four standard colors are available with a minimum order of 1,000 lineal ft: Teak, Moleskin, Rosewood, and Ebony. Non-standard colors Carbon and Bilinga are available with a 5,000 lineal ft minimum and 90-day lead time. Custom colors are available at 6,000 lineal ft minimum.
Can it be used indoors?	Yes. The Careo 7014 is equally suited to interior applications including feature columns, decorative screens, and wall accent elements, where its authentic wood appearance and zero-maintenance profile provide lasting design value.

Downloads & Documents

Careo 7014 Datasheet	Download PDF
Installation & Maintenance Guide	Download PDF
CAD Drawings	View
Submittal Documentation	View
Tests & Certifications	View