Column Cover Sizing Guide
Getting column cover dimensions right early saves redesign later. These limits come from the Sure-Panel® column cover specification (Section 05 58 13).
Sizing limits
Minimum diameter: 8"
Max one-piece length (round or square): 15' (longer covers need a stack joint)
Round covers over 34" diameter: Require vertical joints
Square covers over 26": Require vertical joints
Example: Navy Pier
Navy Pier's 18 hairline joint covers are 36.5" in diameter and 27 feet tall. That's over the 15' round limit and over 34" diameter, so the design uses stack joints and vertical joints, with a hairline joint that keeps them nearly invisible.
Materials and weights
.080" aluminum: 1.14 lb/sf
.090" aluminum: 1.28 lb/sf
.125" aluminum: 1.78 lb/sf
4 mm FR-core ACM: 1.56 lb/sf
6 mm FR-core ACM: 2.23 lb/sf
16 ga stainless: 2.5 lb/sf
Painted aluminum: 3003-H14, .090"–.125". Anodized: 5005 anodic quality, .090"–.125". Stainless: 304 or 316, 16 ga. Finishes: PVDF/Kynar, powder coat, anodized, brushed stainless, mill, primed.
Choosing a joint
Hairline: seam nearly disappears; internal key-slot system.
Reveal: deliberate vertical reveal with a C-channel insert.
Caulk: sealed with backer rod and silicone for weather protection.
What to send for a quote
Column shape and size, height, quantity, joint type, material/finish, and any capitals, bases or rings. Fabrication in as little as 3–4 weeks (6–8 with drafting).
