The Copper Development Association (CDA) released a study intended to simplify the specification process of copper wall cladding systems for architects, building owners and contractors. The study, conducted by London-based Intertek, has performance and technical data for common copper wall cladding systems. With the data, end users don’t need to conduct individual tests to comply with building code requirements.

CDA tested several common systems in a variety of conditions according to American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM)/American Architectural Manufacturer’s Association (AAMA) testing protocols, successfully obtaining ratings on air infiltration (ASTM E283), water infiltration (ASTM E331), wind resistance (ASTM E330), and dynamic wind (AAMA 501.1).

Stephen Knapp, director of the strip, sheet and plate council at CDA, said, “To our knowledge, copper is the only wall cladding material that has undergone standardized testing in compliance with ASTM/AAMA. These results make it easier for architects, building owners and contractors to specify an off-the-shelf, tested and rated system.”

The testing focused on commonly used styles of standing-seam and flat-seam copper systems: horizontal and diagonal flat-lock panels, horizontal single-lock standing-seam panels, and vertical and horizontal double-lock standing-seam panels. To view the tests and results, visit www.copper.org.