Wall copings are an architectural element where appearance is almost as important as function. The coping protects the top of a wall from the weather, but from an aesthetic perspective, it also adds a finishing touch.
When specifying aluminium copings, choosing a Secret Fix coping means the fixing is hidden from view but without any impact to durability or appearance.
In this article, we will explore what Secret Fix copings are and why architects often use them to improve the look of a parapet wall or other roof structure.
Why Use Secret Fix Copings?
Aluminium is used extensively in architectural fabrications. That’s because it’s light yet strong, readily cut and formed, and resists corrosion.
However, it has one characteristic that must be accommodated during design and installation. As a metal, it expands and contracts more than brick or stone. This must be taken into account when deciding how to fix aluminium fabrications in place, especially if you intend to keep joints of aluminium watertight.
When it comes to using Secret Fix copings, the main reason is to avoid the many drawbacks of using fixed aluminium copings. Fixed copings often fail after years of expanding and contracting throughout hot days and cool nights. When constrained, the pressure causes it to buckle and bow in the middle, as well as deform fasteners.
Secondly, the fixings do require holes to be drilled through the top of the coping which is an entry point for the water we are trying to keep out. Over time, sealants can fail, leading to leaks, damp, and mould, as well as cracked wall rendering and damaged insulation.
What Are Secret Fix Copings and Why Are They Better?
The ideal method of fixing aluminium coping is expected to:
- Handle expansion and contraction
- Resist the strongest gusts of wind
- Not harm the appearance of the coping, (preferably, it improves appearance.)
- Install quickly and easily
Coping manufacturers have struggled with this fixing challenge since aluminium started to replace stone and lead. This is why Secret Fix coping solutions were engineered.
In basic terms, the coping itself is not bolted to the wall, but a bracket is, which the coping attaches to. This means the finished coping has a clean aesthetic whilst also benefiting from having no holes going straight through it.
The bracket is extruded in a specific design that makes the coping clip-fix to it. The brackets are bolted to the wall and then the coping is pressed securely on top. This attachment is so secure that it often means the coping can never be taken off again without damaging it.
HJA’s Secret Fix Coping System
Our Secret Fix copings are proprietary, but we can highlight some of the key benefits it provides.
HJA’s Secret Fix copings are protected against water penetration due to polymer gaskets that are integrated into the brackets. These also prevent wind rattle, along with anti-rattle foam.
As for wind-resistance, the HJA Secret Fix aluminium coping system has been independently wind-tested to 144mph. The engineered design, including the extruded brackets’ exclusive design, creates superior wind-loading.
The HJA Secret Fix copings offer an attractive, low maintenance coping system that is simple to install yet both rigid and secure. The out of sight coping fixings provide a smooth, fastener-free appearance that any architect would desire.
If you want to read more about the HJA’s Secret Fix system then click here.
Specialised Architectural Solutions from HJA Fabrications
Copings are important for both functional and aesthetic reasons. Aluminium copings benefit from an engineered fixing method that provides wind resistance and water protection without negatively affecting appearance. (Ideally improving appearance!)
HJA Fabrications’ Secret Fix Aluminium Copings satisfy these requirements. They are also lightweight, durable and available in a wide range of finishes and colours. Contact Us for more information.
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