An Introduction To Metal Column Covers | CCC

An essential aspect of a building aesthetically and functionally, metal column covers serve multiple purposes. Especially with steel reinforced concrete structures, reinforced concrete structures, and steel framed structures, some projects opt for concrete or paint coated steel frames. For the sake of design, most columns have claddings covering them. Within the building, one of the most defining design elements can be the building’s claddings or column covers.

For their design option flexibility, metal tends to be the preferred choice. They’re available in a number of finishes, are workable, and durable.

Advantages and Functions of Metal Columns

Column claddings or columns installed in the passages, large lobbies, lower-level arcades, and entrances of a building greatly impact space design. In the structure of a building, it often acts as the face of the building, or as the façade that greets passersby.

Given metal’s diverse design options, it is a particularly suitable material for columns. It’s also chosen for its functionality including workability, fire resistance, water resistance, strength, and durability.

In comparison to other materials, accommodations of complex design details or exterior/interior constructions are smoother with metal. Its workability allows for various design and form options, including pyramids, coins, ovals, dented or protruded forms, polygons, round, standard squares, and other free forms.

Materials

As stated, flexibility is an extremely desirable aspect of metal cladding. Depending on your selected finishes and materials, some limitations may present themselves.

Applicable materials used in metal claddings include bronze alloys, steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and other metals.

Column Wraps

You may also hear column covers referred to as column wraps. They are one and the same. In residential settings (porches, for example) or for the front of some commercial buildings, various types of column wraps can be used in addition to metal including the following:

• Faux stone
• PVC
• Faux wood
• Wood
• Fiberglass
• Vinyl

Due to the many benefits, adaptability, and customizability of metal cladding/wraps, however, it remains the most desirable.

The following are negative aspects of various column wrap materials…

Wood:

• Not environmentally friendly
• Requires constant refinishing and maintenance
• Can peel/warp/splinter/chip
• Prone to pest infestations
• Warps or rots because it holds moisture

PVC:

• Excessive installation charge, so prepare for a significant initial investment

Fiberglass:

• The entire wrap must be replaced if there is a crack
• Joint areas are hard to seal seamlessly
• Every few years, must be re-gel coated
• Unpleasant smells during installation
• May present health hazards

Talk to Clearview Cladding Concepts About Exterior Construction Materials and Techniques

Our services include shop drawings, fabrication, estimating, and more. Currently, we feature products such as Reynobond, Alpolic, and Vitrabond composites. We are Clearview Cladding Concepts.

For 20 years, we’ve worked with architects, contractors, and others to build a reputation and relationships that still stand firm today.

We specialize in various areas of architectural cladding including intricate accessories and complex structures. We also design and engineer advanced aluminum systems. Whether it’s aluminum cladding or some other aspect of construction, a member of our knowledgeable team can answer all your questions and discuss whether or not your project can benefit from specific concepts or materials.

Contact us today to book a consultation or with any questions you may have. Feel free to phone us at 917-731-4331 or email us at info@cccpanels.com. If you wish, you can also use our convenient online form to start a conversation. We look forward to working with you.