EM Construction specializes in the installation, repair, and replacement of coping stones and parapet walls for commercial and residential buildings throughout New York and New Jersey. These critical building elements protect your structure from water infiltration and must be maintained to the highest standard.
Coping stones crown the top of parapet walls, garden walls, and retaining walls, directing water away from the wall face and preventing moisture from penetrating the wall assembly from above. When coping stones crack, shift, or lose their mortar bed and joints, water enters — damaging masonry, corroding embedded steel, and eventually threatening structural stability. EM Construction restores and replaces coping systems before that damage occurs.
Coping Services
Coping Stone Replacement
We remove deteriorated or damaged coping units and install new pre-cast concrete, natural bluestone, granite, or terra cotta coping stones bedded in the appropriate mortar and properly flashed at their base.
Coping Joint Sealing
Joints between coping units are the most vulnerable point in the assembly. We rake out failed sealant and caulk, install backer rod, and apply high-performance polyurethane or silicone sealant to create a durable, flexible watertight joint.
Coping Resetting
Frost heave, settlement, and traffic vibration can displace coping units without breaking them. We carefully remove, clean, and reset displaced coping stones in fresh mortar, restoring proper alignment and drainage slope.
Metal Coping Installation
Continuous metal coping systems (aluminum or galvanized steel) provide excellent protection for flat-roofed commercial buildings. We install factory-fabricated metal coping with lapped joints and concealed fasteners for a clean, low-maintenance solution.
Parapet Wall Services
Parapet Wall Reconstruction
Severely deteriorated parapet walls often require partial or complete rebuilding. We demolish unstable sections and reconstruct them to the original height and profile using matching brick or block, proper reinforcement, and new coping.
Parapet Wall Repair
Cracked, spalling, or leaning parapet walls can be stabilized and repaired without full reconstruction. We install masonry anchors, inject structural epoxies, repoint joints, and apply waterproof coatings to restore safe, watertight performance.
Parapet Flashing
Base flashing at the junction of the parapet wall and roof deck is a critical waterproofing element. We install new lead, aluminum, or self-adhering membrane flashings to seal this transition and prevent the most common source of parapet-related roof leaks.
Parapet Cap Installation
We install pre-cast concrete or stone parapet caps with positive drainage slope, integral drip edges, and sealed joints to provide long-term protection against water infiltration.
Why Parapet & Coping Failures Are Serious
In New York City, parapet walls are subject to Local Law 11 / FISP inspection requirements. Unsafe parapets can result in violations, stop-work orders, and mandatory repairs under the supervision of a licensed engineer. Beyond regulatory compliance, a failed parapet poses a direct life-safety risk. EM Construction works with structural engineers when required to document and complete all repairs to Department of Buildings standards.
Common Warning Signs
– Coping stones that rock, crack, or are visibly out of alignment
– Efflorescence (white mineral deposits) below coping joints
– Water stains on interior walls below parapet level
– Visible gaps or failed caulk at coping joints
– Leaning or bulging parapet wall sections
– Damaged or missing base flashing
Our Process
1. Inspection — We evaluate the condition of coping, flashing, mortar joints, and the parapet wall structure.
2. Engineering Coordination — For structurally compromised parapets, we coordinate with licensed engineers as required by NYC DOB.
3. Safe Access — Scaffold or aerial lift equipment is erected to provide safe, code-compliant access.
4. Demolition & Removal — Failed coping or parapet material is carefully removed and disposed of.
5. Reconstruction or Repair — New masonry, coping, and flashing are installed to correct specifications.
6. Waterproofing — Sealants and coatings are applied to all joints and vulnerable surfaces.
7. Inspection & Filing — Completed repairs are documented and filed with the DOB when required.
Service Areas
EM Construction serves all five New York City boroughs, Long Island, Westchester County, and northern New Jersey.
Get a Free Estimate
Protect your building and stay in compliance. Contact EM Construction today for a professional coping and parapet inspection and a free estimate for all required repairs.