Wall copings play a crucial role in the construction of any building, offering a waterproof barrier for parapet walls and roofs. Copings cover not only the upper part of a wall but also extend down the sides, providing additional protection all the way around. Copings can either have a flat top or be sloped to encourage the drainage of surface water.
Each coping sheet should fit together and securely seal to prevent water from getting in. They need to be securely mounted to the wall so they can withstand years of wind and rain.
In order to achieve the perfect fit, numerous applications necessitate customised aluminium fabrications, particularly on curved surfaces. Experienced aluminium fabricators carefully measure and mould each piece separately to create a practical engineered coping solution.
Why Are Copings Important?
Today, numerous buildings feature parapet walls on the roof, regardless of whether it is a pitched or flat roof.
While water naturally flows off a slanted parapet wall, flat walls require coping as they are an integral part of the building envelope, safeguarding them from external elements.
Without any drainage, water will pool on the surface and seep into the brick. Water-penetrating brick walls can cause efflorescence that discolours the exterior surface. A more concerning issue known as rising dampness occurs when water seeps down into the wall. Ultimately, it can result in the detachment of plaster or rendering and deterioration or rust in structural elements.
Copings address these issues with wall coverings by redirecting water from the building and serving as an appealing finish for parapet walls.
Why Choose Aluminium for Coping?
No coping is permanent, but certain copings require maintenance, which makes it a cost-effective choice for your walls.
Because aluminium has corrosion resistance, it is more durable than other coping options.
Moreover, aluminium exhibits a greater specific strength compared to steel, allowing copings to withstand deformation effectively. This makes an aluminium coping an excellent choice for a building's exterior.
But what about the other material options?
Stones have always been a traditional option for coping. It can give a visually pleasing appearance; however, it is heavy materials that will affect both the installation process and the structural integrity of the roof. The mortar is typically used to secure stone copings, but it is susceptible to freeze-thaw damage.
GRP and polymeric copings are another choice for coping. They are easy to shape and are lightweight. Regrettably, these material selections may distort when subjected to heavy loads or high winds because of their limited strength. They are also susceptible to UV damage.
Metal copings are in high demand due to their superior strength. However, since fabricating mild or plain steel is a straightforward process, the issue of corrosion may arise, leading to unattractive rust streaks on the surfaces of buildings. Similarly, copper appears appealing when first cut but oxidises with a layer of green verdigris.
As a result, we are left with aluminium. Aluminium copings are both functional and visually pleasing; they can be powder-coated in any colour, and offer a budget-friendly yet environmentally-friendly choice.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Aluminium Wall Coping
Building Type and Architecture
The type of building and its architectural style play a significant role in determining the appropriate aluminium wall coping. Consider the following:
- Commercial Buildings: Often require more robust and wider copings to accommodate larger wall thicknesses.
- Residential Properties: May benefit from sleeker designs that blend seamlessly with the home's aesthetics.
- Historical Structures: Might need custom-designed copings to match the original architectural elements.
Wall Type and Thickness
Different wall types require specific coping profiles:
- Cavity Walls: Need copings that cover both leaves of the wall and include a cavity tray.
- Solid Walls: Use simpler coping designs that cover the full width of the wall.
- Parapet Walls: Require copings that protect both sides of the wall and often include drip edges on both sides.
Ensure that the chosen coping can accommodate the wall thickness, including any insulation.
Climate and Weather Conditions
Local weather patterns should influence your choice.
- High Rainfall Areas: Opt for copings with pronounced drip edges and effective water-shedding designs.
- Windy Regions: Choose copings with secure fastening systems to prevent uplift.
- Coastal Areas: Select copings with enhanced corrosion resistance, such as marine-grade aluminium alloys.
Aesthetic Considerations
The visual appeal of the coping is important for the overall look of the building.
- Colour: Choose from a range of powder-coated finishes to match or contrast with the building's colour scheme.
- Texture: Consider smooth or textured finishes depending on the desired look.
- Profile: Select from various shapes (flat, sloped, curved) to complement the building's lines.
The Bottom Line
Aluminium coping shows how modern architecture seamlessly combines durability, eco-consciousness, and aesthetic elegance. These copings offer great resistance to external forces and require minimal maintenance, making them a reliable choice for protecting buildings while improving their appearance. While choosing, consider some factors provided in this guide to improve the overall look of your building.
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