print this page
AAA

Architecture

Loading

Fundamentals:
Dimensions of Copper

In building construction, copper is generally used in sheet and strip. Strip is 24 inches or less in width, while copper sheet is over 24 inches in width. Table 1.1.2 shows the standard dimensions of sheet and strip copper. Lead-coated copper is commonly available in sheet 24, 30, and 36 inches wide by 96 or 120 inches long and is normally applied to copper sheets weighing 20 oz. per Sq. Ft.

Table 1.1.2 - Typical Dimensions of Copper Sheet and Strip
Weight per S.F. in Ounces Width Inches Length Inches
Sheet Copper 12 30, 36 96, 120
16 30, 36 96, 120
20 30, 36 96, 120
24 30, 36 96, 120
32 30, 36 96, 120
48 30, 36 96, 120
Strip Copper 16 10, 12, 14, 15, 16, 18, 20, 24 96, 120
20 20, 24 96, 120
24 20, 24 96, 120
32 20, 24 96, 120

The thickness of sheet and strip copper is measured by its weight in ounces per square foot. For example, the thickness of 12 ounce copper is such that every square foot weighs 12 ounces. The thicknesses commonly used in construction are between 8 and 32 ounces.

Since the industry often uses gauge numbers or actual thicknesses for sheet metal or other building materials, it is often necessary to convert between the different systems. Table 1.1.3 shows the relationship between the copper weight, thickness, and gauge number.

Table 1.1.3 Copper Weight, Thickness, and Gauge
Weight per Sq. Ft.  Nearest Gauge No. (B&S) Thickness inches (mm)
Ounces Pounds Nominal Minimum
6 .375 32 .0081 (.206) .0071 (.180)
8 .500 29 .0108 (.274) .0097 (.246)
10 .625 27 .0135 (.343) .0124 (.315)
12 .750 26 .0162 (.411) .0150 (.381)
16 1.00 23 .0216 (.549) .0204 (.518)
20 1.25 21 .0270 (.686) .0258 (.655)
24 1.50 20 .0323 (.820) .0308 (.782)
32 2.00 17 .0431 (1.09) .0411 (1.04)
48 3.00 14 .0646 (1.64) .0621 (1.58)

Design Handbook

Available in 2 formats:

Web Version
and
Desktop Application

Download AutoCAD Files

AutoCAD Detail Files
[ZIP - 4.5MB] is a complete set of CAD files for the designs shown in Architectural Details.

The AutoCAD files for individual details can be downloaded from individual topic pages by clicking the CAD File button next to an individual detail.

Order Design Handbook

Available in CDA's Publications
(publication #A4050).