Copper Roofing Panels and Copper Metal Roof Alternatives
Since as early as 3rd Century B.C., copper has been used as a roofing solution. Copper Roof panels have been chosen for their durability, ability to resist corrosion, and of course, stunning aesthetic appeal. Some copper roofs dating back to the 12th Century are still actively in use today, pointing to copper's longevity when used as a roof panel. A Copper Roof will outlive you for centuries to come!
Copper roof panels have many appealing characteristics that make homeowners, builders, and architects choose them over other materials. One of the biggest pros of copper sheets for roofing is the attractiveness and curb appeal of the panels. Copper roofing panels have the ability to increase a building or home’s value, look completely unique, and are a stunning, aesthetically-pleasing choice for a roof.
A Copper Roof can last upwards of 100 years. Copper Roofs are one of the strongest materials on the market and are highly resistant to damage like scratches, nicks, and blemishes. Copper sheets for roofing also increases a home’s energy efficiency by reflecting the sun’s UV rays rather than absorbing them. A copper roof is lightweight compared to materials like clay tiles or wood shakes, meaning your home’s internal structure will be under less stress. A Copper Roof is also virtually maintenance-free — no need for annual power-washing, sealing, or any type of scrubbing. Since copper roof panels and copper sheets for roofing undergo a natural patina process, you will never have to repaint or refinish your copper roof.
Copper roofing has only a few drawbacks. The biggest con of a Copper Roof is the cost, which is generally higher then other materials upfront. However, most Copper Roof owners find the cost to be worthwhile as the panels will last much longer than other materials like shingles. Another con may be struggling to find a contractor/installer who has worked with copper roof panels before. Copper may also expand and contract in areas with drastically different temperatures. These drawbacks are minor compared to the endless benefits of a copper roof.
Read Our Guide to a Copper Roof Here For More Information
A copper roof is an extremely efficient, energy-saving material compared to asphalt or stone shingles, primarily relating to heat gain. Add in the longevity of these copper panels (up to 1,000 years in many European examples) and you get an economical metal, even when accounting for the high initial Copper Roof cost. Copper roofs are known for their recyclability, longevity, energy efficiency, and thermal efficiency.
Copper sheets for roofing that have been correctly installed and properly ventilated can help homeowners lower heating and cooling costs by up to 25%. A Copper Roof's ability to reflect the sun's UV rays rather than absorb them make it a smart, energy efficient roofing choice.
Bridger Steel offers most of our steel panels in copper. Copper roof panels, unlike other metal panels like aluminum or steel, require expert installation. While copper is an excellent option as a roofing panel, its malleability is among the factors that make it a challenging installation.
Due to copper roofing's high initial investment, a series of paint systems have been created to act as copper alternatives so you can still get the look of a copper roof without the high upfront cost and difficult installation.
Bridger Steel's Weathered Copper finish mimics a full patina in a dry environment like Montana, while Rustic Copper finish mimics a partial patina in a humid or coastal environment. Copper Penny finish is a wonderful alternative to copper's warm, initial look.
Talk to A Product Specialist About A Copper Roof Alternative
As a traded commodity, copper sheets for roofing prices change frequently. Pricing for copper roofing should be obtained with the understanding that prices may change. We recommend speaking to a Bridger Steel Product Specialist about options for securing pricing on longer building cycles for copper roof panels.
In humid or coastal conditions, copper roofing tends to patina differently when compared to dry or arid regions. In a coastal or humid environment, copper roof panels take on a green patina. In arid climates, copper sheets for roofing will patina into a weathered brown finish.
Your copper roofing patina will depend heavily upon what type of climate and environment you live in. That's the beauty of copper roofing — it's completely unique and creates a one-of-a-kind look only your home will have!
Our Copper Penny finish emulates the initial warmth of unaged copper roof panels. Create a fresh copper roofing look!
The Weathered Copper finish emulates copper sheets for roofing as a finish with a full patina in an arid environment. Create the stunning look of a patina without the wait!
Bridger Steel's Rustic Copper finish is a unique alternative that emulates a partial copper roof patina in an arid environment.
