Why Do Buildings Have Copper Roofs

A vented copper roof assembly at oak ridge national laboratories u s substantially reduced heat gain versus stone coated steel shingle sr246e90 or asphalt shingle sr093e89 resulting in lower energy costs.

Why do buildings have copper roofs.

It is particularly distinctive against the occluded skies of our temperate climate. Copper roofing is initially an expensive purchase but the cost pays off over the life of the home as homeowners save on other maintenance costs. There are several reasons why you might consider using copper on your home s roof. Copper roofs can be designed to meet or surpass other materials in terms of energy savings.

This trend has its drawbacks as more newly built homes have had to undergo roof repair work and even replacement. The oxide sulfate coating on the outer surface of copper makes it especially resistant to corrosion in most environments. Contemporary architecture also benefits from copper because it complements commonly used materials such as brick wood stone and glass and can be used for buildings with traditional or modern styles. Architects have long used copper for flashings gutters and downspouts and roofs.

Copper is relatively expensive but it does have beneficial characteristics. Besides its familiar green patina the metal is environmentally friendly boasting one of the highest recycling rates of any engineering metal. There are many examples of historical buildings palaces and churches all over europe with their green copper roofs and gutters proving copper to be both beautiful and durable. Once copper changes color from brass to its prestigious green patina think of the statue of liberty it actually becomes more durable.

With its natural tendency to form a protective green patina copper roofing provides a prominent visual accent in our built environment. Copper is the one roofing material that outlasts the occupants a copper roof life expectancy is hundreds of years. Types of copper roofs include. Copper has been prized as a roofing material by architects for hundreds of years.

Copper is extremely durable. There are more copper roof installations on luxury homes and high end commercial buildings now than ever before. Copper is long lasting relatively easy to work and provides interesting finish and color both in its new stage and as it ages and patinas. Copper roofs aren t just gorgeous to behold.

Many new homes are built with lower quality materials than used in the past. Copper is both literally and figuratively a green building material.