Alright, homeowners, let’s face it– you can’t beat the soft orange luster of a copper roof. So, if you think this vintage roofing material is only for cathedrals circa 1890, think again.

Copper for roofing is trending now more than ever. It gives your home a unique, yet classic appearance; while also providing ample protection from the elements. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about roofs made from this precious metal and explore the advantages it provides.

Shall we?

The copper roof 

A copper roof is exactly what it sounds like– a roof that’s made from copper metal. While it’s safe to assume you know what a roof is, let’s break down what copper is.

Copper is one of the oldest materials to date that’s used for roofing. This natural material has been used to cover roofs for hundreds of years, which is why so many medieval buildings have been roofed in copper. Known for its beautiful orange-red color, copper brings homes today a timeless and classy aesthetic.

The patina on a copper roof

Have you ever seen an old statue that looks like it’s painted turquoise? What you’re actually looking at is patina, which is a blue-green coating that results from copper metal oxidizing. This is why the Statue of Liberty looks green today. Over many years, the authentic copper that built this national landmark began to undergo patination and change from its original reddish-brown tone to a turquoise color.

Thus, the answer to “How long does the color last on a metal roof?” depends on patination. Sometimes copper will patina at a faster rate depending on its chemical reaction and the climate it’s exposed to. On this same note, it may also turn bluer rather than green or vice versa.

While a sea green-colored roof isn’t what you have in mind when you think about covering your roof with copper, the green patina will only add to your roof’s character. Not only does the turquoise hue give copper a unique look and charm, but it also provides a protective coating that defends copper from corrosion. As a result, the patina will help the copper material that sits atop your roof last for centuries.

Benefits of this penny-colored metal

Using copper for roofing offers perks that go beyond aesthetically-pleasing curb appeal. It’s low maintenance, durable, long-lasting, fireproof, water-resistant, and energy efficient. So, let’s explore each of these advantages.

Minimal upkeep

Compared to asphalt shingles or other kinds of metal panels, roofs that are made of copper demand very little maintenance. In fact, once the copper roof installation is complete, the roofing itself is virtually maintenance-free. 

Why? Because copper naturally prevents the growth of mold and mildew, and discourages insect infestation– all of which are occurrences that can lead to decaying and corrosion. So, since it’s a naturally corrosion-resistant material, it doesn’t call for any special treatments like an extra layer of coating or repainting to keep it looking fresh and new. This means that, unlike other types of roofs, you don’t need to regularly reapply roof chalk or sealant to a roof made of copper.

Basically, once you install copper roofing, you can pretty much forget about it and just enjoy living under your natural, gorgeous-looking roof.

Super strength

Since copper roofing material doesn’t contain iron, it’s immune to rusting. So, unlike steel and aluminum, copper has the innate ability to shield itself from corrosion or rust caused by external factors like bad weather. 

Likewise, copper is less likely to get damaged from thunderstorms, intense sun exposure, or crazy winter blizzards. The fact that it’s lighter in weight than other roofing materials also makes it less likely to get damaged from heavy snow accumulation since it won’t start to sink in. Thus, copper is one of the most durable materials you can get to make a solid roof over your home.

Long lasting

Unless there’s a breakthrough in stem cell research, humans will never live as long as copper as an element. Suffice it to say, copper roofs have very long lifespans. While it’s typical that a well-installed roof made from copper can last around 75 years, there are cathedrals from the 1800s with copper roofs still intact!

Fireproof

Many people don’t know this, but a roof made from copper roofing supplies is fireproof. That’s right– a roof that’s made of copper material won’t catch flames, even if there’s a blaze nearby. This is because copper is a non-flammable material, which means it won’t burn when exposed to high temperatures. 

This makes copper arguably the most fireproof roofing material that’s currently available on the market. While this is a critical fire safety tip for any home, it’s especially important to note for homes located in regions that are susceptible to wildfires or very dry climates. 

Water-resistant

When you use copper sheets for roofing, you’re signing up for an extremely water-resistant roof. This is because copper metal forms an oxide film on its surface when exposed to water. As a result, the oxide film protects it from corrosion and prevents water from seeping in. 

Since it naturally repels moisture and water, a copper roof works wonders for homes in areas prone to rain or snow. After all, the last thing you want to experience when you get home from a rainy day is water leaking from your roof into your kitchen.

Energy efficient

Modern homes embrace current living trends and adapt to modern living standards. This is why having a roof that isn’t energy efficient is becoming a thing of the past. Let’s be honest, in the world we live in today, every choice you make that helps to reduce our environmental footprint scores you a few points. So, there’s no question that a modern copper roof isn’t a huge selling point for homeowners in 2023. 

A roof made of copper radiates and absorbs much less heat than other roofing materials. This is because copper metal has a natural reflective property that enables it to deflect sunlight. Also, since it reflects heat, it’ll keep your home warmer in the frigid winters and cooler in the blazing summers. This, in turn, can save you money on your energy bills.

The main drawback of a copper roof

Everything comes with its limitations, right? When you have a roof made from copper materials, the only big drawback is that it can be a bit expensive. While the copper roofing cost will generally be more expensive than shakes and shingles, it’s the more economical choice since it won’t need to be replaced or warrant extensive upkeep.

But a copper metal roof isn’t without its reasons for having a steep price tag. This high-end roofing option is tremendously durable and classy. So, it’s only reasonable that you wouldn’t pay the same price as you would for regular old asphalt shingles. Think about it, you pay more for an Apple Watch than a Timex watch from CVS, because the Apple Watch provides many unique benefits and makes you feel good when you wear it.

In case you didn’t catch that, the Apple Watch is copper metal roofing. And, although expensive, it’s worth the price.

Copper-painted metal roof

Sometimes an option may be out of your budget and you just can’t swing it. Hey, we get it. And that’s why it’s important to mention that there are different types of metal roofing systems, and they don’t all have to be copper. You can get a copper-colored metal roof that’s made from steel, which comes at a fraction of the cost compared to genuine copper. Typically, copper-colored metal panels will have price tags up to 75% less than true copper panels.

Another perk of opting for a copper-painted metal roof rather than the real thing is that you won’t have to wait for the patina to occur. That charming, classic turquoise color that sets in several months or years later, can now be featured on your roof from the moment it’s installed. 

Unlike genuine copper, copper-painted metal panels won’t change their appearance over time. Likewise, you’ll never have to worry about needing to restore a faded metal roof, since you get to choose what stage of copper you want your painted panels to permanently reflect.

Your home deserves a beautiful, durable roof

Installing a copper roof is no small feat. It requires special expertise and experience. These highly sought-after roofs are attractive, resilient, and low-maintenance. And, because they offer unparalleled protection from the elements– they can last for centuries. 

So, if you’re looking for a roof that will add value to your home and give you peace of mind, contact a Summit Construction roofing expert today.