Over time, the type of copings used on buildings has changed. This is due to fashion and desired look, as well as advances in technologies that have allowed for better materials that last longer and are easier to work with.
However, these advances haven’t come without other advances needing to be made. Since moving to aluminium as the most common material used for copings, the industry has had to come up with new ways to fix these copings to buildings, and ensure they actually work.
Fixing aluminium copings
Aluminium copings can’t just rest on top of the wall: any substantial gust of wind would blow them off. Neither can they be screwed down due to the issues it would cause, such as ruin the aesthetic of the coping, create access points for water, as well as possible morphing when they get hot, due to the aluminium expanding.
If secured at the end, the middle will expand and result in a bend in the metal.
Aluminium is a ductile metal but expansion is a powerful force. Aluminium copings could buckle on a hot day, but they may also push out or deform the fasteners holding them to the wall. For this reason, the mechanism used to secure aluminium copings to the wall is a key aspect of their design.
Why choose HJA’s Secret Fix system
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. At HJA Fabrications, this is what prompted us to develop our own innovative aluminium coping system called ‘Secret Fix’.
Details of how HJA Secret Fix copings work are proprietary. What we can say is that the secret is in how the coping is secured to the support brackets. These are out of sight once the capping is clip-fixed into position to give the smooth, fastener-free appearance architects want.
These secret fixings meet with all of the ideals for aluminium coping fixings, making them arguably the best option on the market for fixings.
Benefits of using HJA Secret Fix aluminium copings
Secret Fix aluminium copings add to the aesthetic of a coping, attaching to the fitting, without any intrusions needing to be made. This not only allows for a better fit, but improves the appearance of the coping, as it looks complete, rather than tampered with.
Due to the way secret fix copings clip into place, they’re much faster to install than any other coping fix system available. This allows construction workers to fit more copings in a shorter period of time, making them more efficient.
Although they may cost slightly more than regular fit fixings, this money can be saved in labour costs, as less time is needed to complete jobs.
Protection against water penetration comes from polymer gaskets integrated into the brackets. These also prevent wind rattle. As for wind-resistance, the Secret Fix aluminium coping system has been independently wind tested to 144mph.
Conclusion
HJA Fabrications’ Secret Fix Aluminium Copings satisfy all of the ideals in regards to copings. They are also lightweight, durable and available in a wide range of finishes and colours. Contact Us for more information, and find out how we can make your next project better.
