Copper roofing is a premium product that offers superior quality in the roofing industry. It is a popular material for roofs, downspouts, gutters, and home decorative elements. Copper provides value that other roofing materials can’t match.
The Benefits Of Copper Roofing
Besides its highly desired aesthetic appeal, copper has many benefits, such as longevity, low maintenance, durability, and a prestigious appearance. A properly installed copper roof can last for 100 years or more.
It requires minimal maintenance and is highly resistant to corrosion, allowing it to withstand all forms of environmental abuse. Copper is also fire-resistant.
A copper roof is generally seen as being the most attractive of all metal roofing options and will instantly enhance a home’s curb appeal. Copper’s aesthetic is unique because of how it changes colour over time. The high sheen of new copper will eventually become a blue-green patina.
The Downside
While copper roofing has many benefits, it also has some potential pitfalls. The three most common problems with a copper roof are that copper roofing is expensive, copper can take a long time to patina, and copper cannot be around dissimilar metals.
Copper is the most expensive kind of roofing material, however, painted metal panels are designed to mimic the appearance of copper and are 60% to 75% less expensive than actual copper panels. Painted metal panels also include a standard limited paint warranty.
Copper naturally goes through a chemical change where it coats itself with a preservative known as patina. Patina is highly desired for its appearance and serves as a protective layer that makes copper so durable and corrosion-resistant.
Patina will always form eventually, as long as the material is in the right climate. However, the timeline of when it will happen is not completely predictable and depends on a few different factors.
Copper does not perform well when placed in contact with specific other metals. Galvanic corrosion is when accelerated corrosion occurs when two dissimilar materials come into contact with each other and then come into contact with an electrolyte, such as water.
Copper roofing is a top-of-the-line, high-quality roofing product. However, it does come with some disadvantages that might not make it the best material for everyone to use for their new roof.
For example, if someone is looking for a low-cost roofing solution, or they are not going to be in their home long term, or they live in a climate where the elements can prevent or delay patina from forming, or steel, aluminium, and/or zinc are going to be used in their construction and can possibly come into contact with the copper, then copper roofing might not be the best choice for them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes Copper to Turn Green Over Time?
Copper turns green over time due to a natural chemical process called oxidation. When copper is exposed to air and moisture, it reacts with carbon dioxide to form a layer of copper carbonate, also known as a patina. This layer of patina protects the copper from further corrosion and gives it its characteristic green colour.
How Can I Prevent My Copper Roof from Turning Green?
Preventing a copper roof from turning green is difficult, as the patina is a natural and necessary part of the copper’s protective layer. However, there are some steps that can be taken to slow down the process. Applying a clear coat specifically designed for copper roofs can help prevent the formation of a patina. Additionally, regular cleaning and maintenance can help keep the roof in good condition.
Is it Normal for Copper Roofs to Turn Green?
Yes, it is normal for copper roofs to turn green over time. In fact, the formation of patina is a natural and necessary part of the copper’s protective layer. The patina protects the copper from further corrosion and helps to extend the life of the roof.
What is the Chemical Process that Causes Copper to Turn Green?
The chemical process that causes copper to turn green is oxidation. When copper is exposed to air and moisture, it reacts with carbon dioxide to form a layer of copper carbonate, also known as a patina. This layer of patina protects the copper from further corrosion and gives it its characteristic green color.
What are the Benefits and Drawbacks of Having a Copper Roof?
The benefits of having a copper roof include its durability, longevity, and aesthetic appeal. Copper roofs can last for over a century with proper maintenance and can add value to a property. However, copper roofs can be expensive to install and require regular maintenance to ensure their longevity.
How Long Does it Take for Copper to Turn Green When Exposed to Air?
The length of time it takes for copper to turn green when exposed to air depends on various factors, such as the level of exposure to air and moisture, temperature, and humidity. Generally, it takes several years for copper to develop a noticeable green patina. However, the formation of patina can be accelerated by exposure to acidic or alkaline substances.