The termination of a parapet coping at a wall is a frequent trouble spot. The most common mistake at this intersection is to allow the metal coping to but up to the wall without the application of termination metal. 

The termination of a parapet coping at a wall is a frequent trouble spot. The most common mistake at this intersection is to allow the metal coping to but up to the wall without the application of termination metal. Omitting the termination metal leaves an opening at the top of the coping and allows for moisture infiltration at the space between the parapet wall and the structural wall. The installation of a coping-to-wall termination provides waterproofing protection and allows for differential movement between the two components.

Prior to the installation of the parapet coping, a metal flashing material should be adhered to the structural wall. The metal flashing should lap the parapet wall. The top of the metal flashing should terminate with a counterflashing that is either surface mounted or set in a reglet.

The metal coping is then applied over the completed wall flashing and secured in accordance with local wind zone requirements. (Perimeter metal coping materials must be in compliance with ANSI/SPRI ES-1 requirements.) A prefabricated sheet metal saddle flashing is applied at the junction of the structural wall and parapet wall to terminate exposed openings. The saddle flashing is set in two continuous beads of sealant. A bead of continuous sealant is then applied at the top of the counterflashing and the seams of the sheet metal saddle flashing.