So much more than merely decoration, coping stones are often underrated in terms of their importance when constructing boundary walls or parapet upstands, for example.
Flat, rectangular stones that are single or twice weathered, copings are used as a cap for different types of walls, such as free-standing, boundary or flat roof. Intended to protect the exposed portion of the upward wall face from external damage, such as that caused by weather conditions such as rain, once they’ve been professionally installed they’ll help to give a look that is both practical and decorative.
Why should you use coping stones in your next construction project?
Essential to all wall projects, from roof parapets to garden walls, coping stones prevent a wall from staining as a result of weathering, or crumbling over time as a result of weather damage. Because coping stones act as a cap for a wall, they keep water off of it very effectively, and often come with a slope for water runoff, or a ridge for the same; designed to enable water to runoff while not seeping through to the wall underneath.
In short, no wall project should even be contemplated without the inclusion of coping stones, and because they’re so durable, they can preserve your wall for far longer, while adding to its aesthetic value, too.
But how do you know which type of coping stone to choose?
A professional masonry contractor will be able to advise you, as will a construction company, but the following information should serve as a basic guide:
Natural stone
Popular as a coping material thanks to its durability and robustness, natural stone offers a timeless look to any wall, and you can choose from sandstone, granite, slate or limestone among others.
Concrete
Helping to protect walls against the ravages of Mother Nature, concrete coping has a different installation method to natural stone, but can be just as stunning when installed professionally.
Clay or terracotta
If you’re building a wall made out of a material like limewash brick, copings made from clay or terracotta are often considered the most appropriate choice since they make a good visual match. Long lasting, terracotta copings are a more cost-effective option than those made out of brick, but where clay copings are concerned, it is possible that if not constructed well, they may become detached from the mortar bed.
Metal
A different procedure again is required for the installation of metal copings, making them a little less popular than other types. How much metal copings such as stainless steel, aluminum or copper expand and contract thermally in relation to the wall, is an important consideration to make, and when attaching them, cleats and wood blocks should be used.
Brick
Fantastically strong as a type of coping material for walls, brick is the ideal choice if you already have brick walls in your property, as the two will blend together harmoniously. Available in a variety of choices, such as standard, bullnose and double bullnose, your chosen masonry professional will help you decide which one best matches your style, requirements and budget.
For your next wall project, reach out to an experienced construction company in your area.