An Introduction To Metal Column Covers | CCC

Columns have been used in architectural structures for thousands of years. While they’ve traditionally been made with materials such as stone or wood, technological advances have led to the development of metal column covers, which have the advantage of flexibility, durability and numerous finishes.

What Makes Metallic Columns Different?

When such columns are installed near building entrances, within low-level arcades or in big lobbies and passages, they will have a powerful impact on visitors. In fact, they will often function as the building’s facade, greeting all those who arrive. While stone has been the material of choice for millennia due to its incredible strength, durability and longevity, in recent years architects and engineers have started switching to metal for a number of reasons, one of which is malleability.

A material that is malleable is one that can be stretched, bent, or worked with ease. One of the greatest weaknesses of stone is that it is not malleable, and cannot be stretched or worked to the same extent as metal. Engineers can shape metallic columns in many different ways, such as cones, dented or protruded forms, ovals, pyramids, polygons and rounds.

Metallic column covers in particular are advantageous since they can conceal and surround structural supports which would otherwise be unattractive. They come in endless shapes, sizes, finishes and materials, unlike stone which is limited. With regard to style, by using metal you’ll have the option of classical, art deco, modern or renaissance.

Additional Features and Benefits

A number of fabrication options are available for metallic column covers, including laminate clad, stainless steel which has been polished, painted finishes and textured metal. These column covers may be used for exterior or interior applications and are exceptionally durable with very low maintenance.

These column covers are also vertically split which makes them easier to install, and most models consist of reveal joints or butts that are pre-engineered. They come with guarantees against defects and have a fire rating of ASTM-E-84 Class A.

But the main advantage of metallic column covers over stone is their light weight. This makes them much easier to transport and assemble. Aside from metal, they are also available in composites that are fiberglass reinforced and are LEED-certified.

Which Manufacturer Should You Choose?

It is important to choose a manufacturer that specializes in customized architectural metal. Our cladding service sells numerous exterior and interior products like wall panels, column covers, soffit moldings, vaulted ceilings and light coves.  The merchandise we offer meets the highest industry standards and can fulfill exact specifications for structures like office buildings, schools, hospitals, shopping malls and airports, not to mention residential and commercial structures. Our products are simple to arrange and install and require minimal maintenance.

Our expertise in metallic column covers and related products makes us sought after for various construction projects both large and small, as we utilize computer numerical controller routes to generate intricate patterns, combining artisan level quality with cutting-edge mold making processes, which results in designs that are completely unique.