About
ADVANTAGEOUS OF COPPER:
Architectural appeal is a primary benefit. Copper roofs are elegant, and there is no other way to complement certain architectural styles than blending copper roof shingles or seamless panels with a specific design. Discerning homeowners and designers realize copper roofs will set off curb appeal like no other material. That brings a sense of pride and satisfaction, which is impossible to value.
Durability is unsurpassed. Copper is the only roofing material that improves with age. A copper roof will withstand all forms of natural abuse, from high winds to torrential rains. As it ages, copper builds up its protective film that works as a barrier or shield. You can’t achieve this type of durability with other products.
Cost-effectiveness is a proven, long-term benefit. Although copper roofs are initially more expensive than most other roofing systems, they have long-term cost efficiency due to extremely long service life. Where roof materials like wood and asphalt shingles have an approximately 25-year service life, copper lasts centuries.
Low maintenance is another prime benefit from having a copper roof. Under most circumstances, copper roofs do not require any maintenance. Some owners choose to clean their copper roofs and occasionally freshen them up. That’s a matter of personal choice, but it’s rarely necessary.
Antimicrobial qualities are present in copper. Uncoated copper and copper alloys have natural qualities that resist fungus and bacteria growth. Copper roofs are mold- and rot-free, which makes them easier to keep clean. Natural rainwater is usually sufficient to wash away dirt and biological contaminants that can’t get a foothold on copper’s surface.
Lightweight copper roofs weigh considerably less than other roofing products, especially heavy concrete tiles or slate shingles. You can also build roof structural members like trusses and rafters from slimmer materials. That cuts down on overall construction costs. These savings can offset the initially higher cost of labor and materials that go into installing a copper roof. This also lets the building’s structural components last longer due to reduced load stress. Additionally, copper roofs lessen weight in high-snowfall areas.
Lower thermal movements occur in properly designed and installed copper roofs. There is minimal expansion and contraction when the roof goes through hot and cold cycles. Copper has a high heat threshold, giving these roofs minimal creep and stretch tension. These dynamic forces shorten lesser products’ life spans. Ventilation is also less of a concern with copper roofs.
Fireproofing is highly important where buildings are at risk of forest fires. Copper roofs are even excellent insurance against catching fire from an adjacent structure. It takes a tremendous amount of heat to distort copper, let alone destroy it.
High-value retention is a clear benefit from installing a copper roof. Just the visual impact alone supports a higher real estate value. When considered alongside the durability and longevity copper roofs return, high-end purchasers realize the value they receive in purchasing a building with a copper roof.
Natural and recyclable copper roofs will outlast virtually every other building product. Once the structure is retired, copper from the roof, flashing, gutters and other trim can be reclaimed and recycled. There is extremely high demand for recycled copper.
DISADVANTAGEOUS OF COPPER:
The only real drawback of a copper roof is the substantial cost of the material and the professional labor.