There are different kinds and colours of beautiful roofs in the world. Having a cosy house with a beautiful and robust roof is the subject of many daydreams. Yet, it must be elaborated that a strong top which is also beautiful, can only be made using metal. One such metal which is apt for roof building is copper.
While copper roofs aren’t going to win the most beautiful roof awards, but if done right then, it can look luxurious as well as aesthetically pleasing. As for strength, it should be noted that copper is long-lasting and durable, but it comes with disadvantages as well.
Top 3 Issues Plaguing Copper Roofs
- Cooper is Expensive
Copper is costly roofing material. Know that getting a copper roof can cost you anywhere from $9 to $15 for every square foot. Not to mention that the labour for it will cost you separately as well. However, know that copper is long-lasting and durable. So, if can invest in it, then it will last you for a hundred years or so quickly. As such, it’s a one-time investment with long time returns.
- Copper takes a lot of time to patina.
Sometimes after you install the copper roof, you will find that it will change its colour to green over some time. It is this changing colour that’s known as patina. Patina occurs because the roof remains exposed to natural agents. Many homeowners think that this makes their roof look beautiful. Also, not to mention the fact that it is a protective layer that makes copper corrosion resistant as well as durable. However, since copper is such a long-lasting material, so it takes a long time to get that green cover.
It means that you might have to wait anywhere from 2 years to 2 decades to get that green cover. Yet, if you want that green cover, then there’s no need to worry. You will be able to induce that effect in copper by using chemicals. These chemicals will give you the patina effect almost overnight. But if it’s not done correctly, then you could get an unevenly stained roof. To prevent such an issue, you should hire a professional
- Copper doesn’t react well around other metals.
There are some specific dissimilar metals which copper doesn’t react well with. If such a metal comes into contact with the copper roof along with water, then it will result in electrolytic corrosion. Know that this corrosion is accelerated and can slowly destroy the top. However, since copper is an immensely active metal, so the chances of it getting corrupted are significantly less.
Yet, there are three metals which you need to be careful of. These are aluminium, zinc, and steel. Note that you don’t need to remain in constant fear of these metals coming in touch with copper. You will actually be able to use them with copper if you use a sealant between them.
Overall, copper is one of the durable and long-lasting materials. It’s true that it is expensive, reticent in forming patina, and doesn’t react well to 3 metals. However, these are all issues which can be easily negated with the help of some future proof planning, chemicals, and sealants. So, in the end, you will be left with a beautiful and robust roof. If you would like a copper roof for your home in Sydney or on the South Coast, including the Southern Highlands, contact The Slate Roofing Company today.
