Copper Shingles

Copper Roofing: Centuries Of Use & Durability

Metal roofs are becoming a popular choice for homeowners who want to invest in long-lasting home protection that can withstand harsh weather conditions of all types. Copper has been used in roofing for centuries. The oldest known copper roof still in existence is a cathedral in Hildesheim, Germany, which was roofed in the year 1230.

One American manufacturer of Copper Shingles, Revere Copper Products, Inc., was founded by Paul Revere in 1801.Copper shingles have amazing longevity. Not only are they strong, can resist winds of up to 150 miles per hour, and will not deteriorate, but the material is usually recycled and recyclable, making it 100% environmental-friendly.

They are fire-safe, algae resistant, and offer outstanding protection from leaks. Copper roofing also offers savings on energy costs by reflecting sunlight and helping keep the home cool in the summer, while snow slides off easily in the winter. While not as affordable as standard asphalt shingles, copper redeems itself with its long life and extra durability.

Shingles made of copper are also more affordable than more premium roofing materials, such as cedar and slate.Originally, copper was placed on roofs in one large sheet. Today, depending on the slant of the roof, homes might be roofed with “standing seam” or “flat seam” copper panels, or copper shingles of all shapes and sizes.

Sometimes these shingles and panels interlock with each other. Soldering is sometimes involved, but for the most part, copper is relatively easy to install. Anyone who can install a basic roof will be able to install a copper one. Installation usually requires solid decking and a felt underlay, but can sometimes be laid over the existing roof.For a great example of the durability of copper, one only need look at the Statue of Liberty and imagine how she would look had she been built with asphalt shingles.

Like this statue, copper roofs will start to develop a pale green hue after time. This is called “patina.” Patina is a natural transformation due to oxidization, and is not a deterioration in any sense. Proponents of copper shingles consider any other roofing material to be temporary, and feel that copper roofing pays for itself many times over.