How coping stones and pier caps work together to add character and interest to an entrance

How Coping Stones and Pier Caps Work Together

Both coping stones and pier caps are popular with many homeowners and work well together. Coping stones are pieces of stone or concrete placed on the top of a wall to protect it from weather damage and provide a finishing touch. Pier caps are similar in that they can protect walls, but they are also decorative and are placed on top of pillars or columns to enhance their appeal. Understanding the roles and characteristics of both coping stones and pier caps helps to determine how they can complement each other in an overall design scheme.

how coping stones & pier caps work together

What is a Coping Stone?

decorative copings

Dating back to the roman times, coping stones have been a central figure in architecture that can enhance your home and garden.

Typically made from materials such as concrete, brick, stone, slate, or cast stone, coping stones serve both a functional and decorative purpose. They are strategically placed on top of walls or brickwork to provide protection against the elements and to elevate the overall look of the structure.

For more information on coping stones, we have created a comprehensive guide here.

Coping Stones Functions and Designs

There are many coping stones functions and designs all used for different uses and looks. All of the designs are available in plain or moulded (with various designs of moulding available). They are based on the following styles or function properties:

Flat

Flat copings, as the name suggests, are a straightforward yet effective solution for adding the finishing touch to brickwork structures.

Once weathered 

Also known as wedged or splayed copings, once weathered copings are characterised by their sloped top surface, which ensures the smooth flow of rainwater away from the brickwork. This unique design feature not only enhances the functionality but also visual interest to the overall structure. They are often used on parapet walls.

Apex

Apex copings, also known as twice weathered or saddle copings, offer a unique solution that strikes a balance between functionality and aesthetics. With a ridge running down the middle of the stone, these copings enable water to run off both sides, making them an ideal choice for situations where water direction is not a primary concern. A good example would be their use on garden walls.

Coping Stones Locations

Coping stones are usually found in four different locations. They are Boundary Wall Copings, Gable Copings, Parapet Copings and Swimming Pool Copings.

Boundary Wall Copings

bespoke boundary wall cast stone copings with vertical drop

Boundary wall copings are traditionally the most popular copings. They are usually of an apex design, but once weathered and flat versions are available. Our range includes several designs to suit most wall thicknesses and to accommodate fence panels and railings.

Gable Copings

Gable copings are a stylish addition to the end of a gable roof, elevating the overall look of your property. These copings are available in apex, once weathered and flat styles. The design would be plain or moulded. We can also manufacture custom-made designs if you prefer.

Parapet Copings

Parapet copings stand out as a widely favoured architectural feature, renowned for their practical design and aesthetic appeal. These are usually found on the edge of a roof as once weathered coping stones enabling rainwater to run back onto the roof, and are available in several designs and widths.

Swimming Pool Copings

Standard pool copings are typically used for capping or edging around the swimming pool shell wall. They feature a bullnose leading edge with a fall running towards or away from the pool and are available in various widths. Pool components are often manufactured to bespoke designs to align with the overall project specification.

What is a Pier Cap?

Pier Cap

A Pier Cap is, as the name suggests, is a cap that sits on top of gate pillars and pillars, serving both a functional and decorative purpose. Much like coping stones, pier caps can be made from a variety of materials, each offering unique looks and styles.

For more information on pier caps, we have created an ultimate guide here.

The Benefits of Pier Caps

cast-stone-Pier-Caps-acanthus-cast-stone

Enhances The Visual Appeal

Pier caps play a key role in enhancing the visual appeal of many properties. Whether developing the entrance gateposts or framing columns and pillars, pier caps can improve the entrance of a property.

Allows Fixtures to be Added

Pier caps can be enhanced with the addition of fixtures. From the practicality of a lamp fixture to decorative elements like finials or fluted designs, pier caps offer a canvas for customisation and personalisation.

Frames The Property

Pier caps can be used to frame a property and define its architectural character. By strategically placing pier caps at key points around a property, such as gate entrances, columns, or boundary walls, they create a visual frame that creates a welcoming entrance.

Suits a Wide Variety of Properties

They can complement a wide range of architectural styles, from traditional to modern, making them a suitable choice for different types of properties. Whether you have a historic home or a contemporary building, pier caps can enhance the overall appearance.

Pier Cap Sizes

Pier caps come in a variety of sizes to cater to different brickwork configurations. We offer our pier caps in 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5 and 4 bricks and these standardised square sizes offer a straightforward solution for enhancing the appeal of pillars. We also offer rectangular shaped pier caps. However, for those seeking a more tailored approach to their pillar design, our bespoke pier cap sizing is also an option.

How Coping Stones & Pier Caps Work Together

cast-stone-gate-pillars-acanthus-cast-stone

Coping Stones and Pier Caps work well together. By carefully considering material and colour matching, these cast stone products can blend effortlessly to enhance the overall look of your property.

Complimenting One Another

Coping stones usually run along the top of a wall, leading to pillars that are topped with pier caps. This combination is essential for creating a seamless transition and a unified look for the structure. Each of our range of pier caps has a corresponding range of coping stones designed to fit various wall widths, complete with corners and end pieces where needed.

Material Matching

Matching the materials of coping stones and pier caps is crucial for maintaining consistency and harmony in the overall design. By selecting materials that complement each other, you can achieve a stunning and coordinated appearance for your project. At Acanthus, we specialise in cast stone products that not only provide a natural look but also add luxury to the design.

Colour Matching

When it comes to creating a coordinated and harmonious design for your home, one crucial factor that should not be overlooked is the matching of colours in coping stones and pier caps. Choosing the right colour for your cast stone coping stones and pier caps can have a significant impact on the overall look of your property. Whether you aim to make your home stand out or seamlessly blend into its natural surroundings, the colour choice plays a key role in achieving this.

Acanthus Cast Stone new stone colours

We understand the importance of ensuring that it complements the overall look of your property. To help you make this decision or to simply ensure that you are happy with your chosen colour, we offer the option to request a free cast stone sample from our extensive range of colours.

How Coping Stones and Pier Caps Can Work with Other Cast Stone Products

Gate Pillars

Coping stones play a versatile role, complementing not just pier caps but also gate pillars and matching boundary walls.

Stone gate piers serve as an ideal choice for crafting an impressive entrance feature for new or existing properties. Our collection features a range of plain and moulded designs in various sizes that can be adjusted in height to suit your preferences.

Similarly, bespoke curved coping stones are a perfect accompaniment to gate pillars. The gentle curve of the coping stones softens the sharp lines of the pillars, creating contrast that enhances the curb appeal and draws the eye to the design. This is demonstrated in the image below:

Balls & Finials

cast stone balls and finials

Similarly, cast stone balls & finials complement matching coping stones and pier caps. Cast stone ball finials are suitable for adorning pier caps, gate piers, walls, and steps. All our cast stone balls can be supplied with or without bases. Adding cast stone balls and finials can truly add a luxurious touch to your property.

Our traditionally designed plain ball finials sit on tapered and moulded bases and are available in a full range of sizes.

Our Range of Coping Stones and Pier Caps

We have a wide range of coping stones and pier caps to suit all tastes and budgets.

Coping stones

Our coping stone designs include apex, once weathered and flat top copings to suit different wall thicknesses, sizes and for rendered walls or railings. Our wide range of designs are well-suited for boundary walls, parapets, gables, and swimming pools. Additionally, we provide the convenience of matching corners and end pieces, removing the necessity to mitre corners on site and guaranteeing a clean and professional finish.

our range of coping stones | Acanthus Cast stone

Pier caps

We have four pier cap standard ranges, each with numerous design variations such as apex, flat top, flush base or to take ball finials and lights. There is also the option of a range of pier caps for rectangular piers. Each range of pier caps has a corresponding range of coping stones designed to fit various wall widths, complete with corners and end pieces where needed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cast stone pier caps and coping stones really do work well together, and can be used on projects of all sizes from your garden wall to luxury homes with magnificent boundary walls. Regardless of budget constraints, personal preferences, or sizing requirements, these cast stone products can seamlessly to add to the overall beauty of your property.

Why Acanthus?

“At Acanthus, we offer a wide range of pier caps and coping stones to complement any style and budget. They are truly versatile and suitable for many home projects.”
Gavin, Project Manager at Acanthus

All our products are available in a range of natural stone shades with the same texture and feel as carved stone. Items we supply are completely frost proof and far exceed the performance requirements of BS1217, the UKCSA Specification for Cast Stone, and NBS clause F22.

If you require any further information, would like to get a quote on our range of pier caps, coping stones, or wish to discuss any of our other bespoke cast stone products, contact one of our friendly Acanthus team or call us on 01773 540704.

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