Please clarify the difference between split and whole... both say weight limit is 18,000 lbs. Which one is considered "weight bearing"?

Thank you for your interest in our product, I am happy to clarify that confusion. The unsplit/whole columns are load bearing, and rated up to that 18,000 pound limit you mentioned. Split columns are the same column, just split in half. When they are split, they do lose their ability to bear weight, and would need to be wrapped around a load bearing post. If you are looking for something to hold weight, you would need to order the unsplit/whole option.