When it comes to building walls, copings are a vital but sometimes overlooked element of the wall building process. Copings are the capping stones or units that sit at the top of a wall and protect it from weather damage, providing an additional layer of defence and increasing the longevity of a wall.
But with so many different types of copings available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for your walling project. In this blog post, we’ll explore copings and walling in detail, looking at why copings are important, what factors to consider when selecting the right coping for your wall, and more.
What are copings?
Copings are a type of stone or other material used to protect the tops of walls from weathering and the resulting damage that may occur. They have been used for centuries and can be found on many old buildings in Europe. Copings are typically made from hard wearing stone such as granite or limestone and as well as having a protective factor, they also provide an attractive finishing touch to a wall.
In practical terms, copings protect the walls from water, frost, and wind damage. They help to keep the walls dry, help prevent them from crumbling, and stop frost and rainwater from getting into the wall cavities.
Copings have become more popular in recent years as they offer an easy way to finish off a wall with a professional and stylish look. The are available in a range of shapes and sizes to suit all types of walls, styles, and budgets.
Why are copings important?
Copings are an important element in wall construction, as they help to protect the wall from rain run-off and frost. Copings act as a cap on the top of a wall and provide an extra layer of protection against the elements.
By keeping water away from the joints and mortar between bricks, they can prevent seepage into the structure of the wall and reduce the risk of water damage. Copings can also provide a decorative finish to a wall, adding an extra touch to the overall look.
Copings are especially important for walls that are built in wetter or colder climates, as they can help to protect them from damage due to water exposure.
They can help prevent frost from forming on the surface of a wall. This is important as frost can eventually lead to cracking or crumbling. Additionally, copings help to extend the life of a wall by providing an extra layer of protection against the elements.
Things to consider when choosing copings
Size
The size of the copings is an important factor to consider when selecting the right product for your wall. It’s important to make sure that the copings fit snugly into the wall and that they cover the edges of the bricks or stones used in the wall. This will give added protection to the bricks and mortar of the wall.
Colour
Another factor to consider when choosing copings is colour. Whether you are looking for something neutral to match the surrounding environment, or something bolder to make a statement, there are many different colours available. Be sure to consider how the colour of the copings will complement the overall look not just of the of the wall, but the immediate environment.
Overall look and feel
Copings come in a variety of designs, so it’s important to consider the overall look and feel of the wall before choosing a particular style. If you’re looking for a more modern look, you may want to choose copings with sharp edges and clean lines. If you prefer something more rustic, opt for copings with a textured finish or a more rounded shape.
Material
The material used for copings should also be taken into consideration. There are a variety of materials available, such as concrete, stone, clay, even plastic, and metal. Each material has its own unique properties and benefits, some may be more suited to your needs that others, so make sure to take this into account when making your selection.
Most importantly, make sure that whatever material you choose is durable enough to withstand whatever elements it will be exposed to. At Easypave, we highly recommend natural stone copings.
Summary
Copings are an essential part of building a wall, as they provide protection from the weather and keep the structure stable. Easypave offers a range of natural stone and manufactured copings in exclusive sizes, ensuring that you can find the perfect option for your walling project.
Our expert staff are always on hand to provide advice and guidance, making sure that you choose the right copings for your project.
