Your roof is something that only becomes front of mind when something goes wrong. Extreme weather conditions can cause major damage overnight, but over time mundane things such as rain, snow, and even hot summers can erode the integrity of your roof. Aging materials can give out quietly and cause expensive headaches such as leaks, mold and loss of curb appeal. Copper Roofing is a great alternative for homeowners who value peace of mind, low maintenance and a timeless look. Let's explore how Copper can help keep your roof over your head instead of keeping you up.
Made to Last
Copper has been used by humans since as early as 8000 BC. As our understanding of its properties grew and with the breakthrough of alloying copper with tin in order to create bronze, its application and uses began to be used in increasingly innovative ways as time went on. Some notable uses are:
- Jewelry and ornaments
- Tools, weapons and vessels
- Architectural decorations and printing plates
- Electrical wiring and components
- Roofing and siding
Copper’s exceptional longevity comes from its natural resistance to corrosion and its ability to form a protective layer known as a patina when exposed to the elements. The patina acts as a barrier, shielding the underlying metal from further corrosion and degradation. Over time, copper transitions from a shiny orange-red to a dull brown, eventually developing into a green hue. The rate at which the patina forms depends on environmental conditions. The patina will develop more quickly in humid, polluted or coastal areas, while in dry, rural or less polluted environments, it may take much longer and may not fully develop all together.
This patina can also be chemically applied to accelerate the aging process in order to match new copper to surfaces that have already started to oxidize (such as older buildings getting restored). CBC Specialty Metals carries a variety of pre-patinated copper in order to match up with any project you may be doing.
Roofing
Copper roofing can last 60-125 years depending on factors such as thickness of the material, environmental conditions and the quality of the installation. Copper will provide you with a roof that will give you more than a lifetime of peace of mind while other materials will typically need to be replaced every 15-25 years depending on the factors previously discussed. A notable example of a building that is still standing today with a copper roof is:
Canada Parliament Buildings:
- Consists of the Centre Block, West Block, and East Block, completed in 1876.
- The original roofs were made of slate. After a fire in the late 1890s damaged the West Block and another in 1916 destroyed the Centre Block, reconstruction efforts introduced copper roofing. The East Block was later renovated to include copper as well, chosen for its enhanced fire resistance and long-term durability.
- From 1995-1997 the aged and weathered copper roof from the centre block was replaced and even recycled into items such as pins and brooches that can still be bought till this day.
- The West Block has had it’s roof replaced and repaired from 2011-2018 and the East Block is currently going through its restoration as of 2021
Low life-cycle cost
Copper offers a low life-cycle cost as a roofing material, thanks to its unmatched longevity, minimal maintenance needs, and full recyclability. While the initial purchase price is higher than other roofing options, the long-term benefits such as reduced repair costs, little to no upkeep, and the likelihood of never needing a full roof replacement in your lifetime, make it a worthwhile investment. Plus, its scrap value at the end of its lifespan can help recover some of the initial cost.
Low Maintenance
Copper roofs require minimal maintenance compared to a traditional asphalt roof. Thanks to the patina that is developed, they:
- Don’t rust
- Resist mold and mildew due to its natural properties
- Don’t need painting or sealing for protection
However, with every roof, there is a bit of maintenance that should be done.
- Annual inspections for signs of damage, or loosened fasteners
- Regular debris cleaning (using mild solutions to avoid damaging the patina)
- Trimming nearby trees to prevent damage from falling branches
Sustainability
- Recyclable without losing any quality whether its been manufactured or in its raw form making it have infinite recyclability
- 80% of the copper ever produced is still currently in circulation today
Conclusion
Choosing copper roofing is more than just a stylistic or premium upgrade, it's an investment in durability, sustainability, and peace of mind. With a proven track record stretching back thousands of years, copper continues to outperform other materials through its incredible lifespan, low maintenance requirements, and timeless aesthetic. From iconic structures like Canada’s Parliament Buildings to homes across the world, copper roofs not only endure but add value, character, and history.