Copper Roofing Benefits, Cost And Considerations

Copper roofing is gaining traction in the residential market, but it’s important to remember that it may not be the best solution for every homeowner.

Unfortunately, copper metal roofs tend to be a costly investment that many homeowners cannot afford, due to the high price of copper roofing.

If you are able to invest in a copper roof, it is worth considering whether the cost is justified.

At 50 North Roofing, we have decades of experience in the industry and always strive to be as honest and open with homeowners as possible, especially when it comes to pricing. To help you make an informed decision, I’d be more than happy to discuss the pros and cons of a copper roof.

By the end of this article, you will be equipped with the information to determine whether or not a copper roof is a feasible investment for your roof type.

The Advantages of Copper Roofing

Lifespan
Maintenance
Lightweight
Eco-friendly

It’s important to remember the key benefits of a copper metal roof. Let’s begin this article by highlighting the four main advantages of this type of roofing.

Copper Roof Lifespan

Copper is a roofing material with an exceptionally long lifespan – up to centuries when properly installed compared to some other metal roofing materials. Plus, copper roofing is fire resistant.

Copper Roof Maintenance

Copper roofing is a great choice for its low maintenance needs. Not only does it not rust, corrode, or mold, but cleaning isn’t necessary. If you do want to clean your copper roof, we discuss how to do this properly later in this article.

Copper Roofing Is Lightweight

Copper is a lightweight material, making it an ideal choice for home construction as it puts less stress on the structure.

Copper Is Eco-friendly

Copper roofs are beneficial to the environment because they have a high recycled content of 75% on average.

A copper metal roof can be used for accent purposes

Copper metal roofs are incredibly versatile, offering the option of a full standing seam system or the ability to use it as an accent in various areas.

Copper over front windows

Due to copper’s malleable nature, it can be formed into practically any shape. This makes it a great option for roofs over arches, bay windows, and porches, as well as flat or low slope areas. However, keep in mind that copper roofs can become costly, especially for larger coverage areas.

Copper flashing is the most commonly used material for residential roofing projects involving luxury asphalt, cedar shake, and slate roofs.

A copper roof can increase your home’s curb appeal

A copper metal roof can greatly enhance the look of your home.

Choosing the right roofing material is key when it comes to boosting your home’s curb appeal; for example, a copper metal roof will make a dramatic improvement.

A copper metal roof system is a great way to increase your home’s curb appeal. However, if you cannot afford a full system, you can use copper for roof flashing, over dormers, arches, and other areas to add a touch of flair to your home.

A copper roof is a lifetime roofing material

The last (and biggest) advantage of a copper metal roof is how long can last.

Copper is the superior choice when it comes to roofing materials, as it offers a lifetime of durability compared to a steel metal roof with a Kynar 500 finish, which is also long-lasting.

Investing in a copper roof is a worthwhile choice, as it has an incredibly long lifespan that can last your entire lifetime if installed correctly.

Disadvantages of a copper metal roof

It’s important to be aware of the potential drawbacks of a copper roof before making a decision. There are two main disadvantages that you should consider.

A copper roof won’t keep the copper look forever

It’s important to keep in mind that a copper metal roof won’t stay looking the same over time, which is something to consider when making a personal preference decision on your copper roofing installation.

Over time, copper oxidizes and develops a greenish, bluish coating known as green patina. Although this is merely a cosmetic issue, it will not affect the performance or longevity of your copper metal roof.

Copper Roofs Are Expensive

Copper is the most expensive roofing material available, which is its major drawback.

The total cost of installing a copper roof typically ranges from $19 to $28 per square foot for a corrugated copper roof and $23 to $35 per square foot for a standing seam copper roof panels.

No matter what, a copper metal roof is always a costly investment. The final price may vary depending on the cost of copper at the time and other factors, like labor cost.

Should You Use Copper For Roofing?

After researching the benefits and drawbacks of a copper metal roof, you should have a better understanding of whether it is a worthwhile investment. I believe that the longevity and increased aesthetic value of a copper metal roof make it a worthwhile investment.

However, I do not recommend going over budget for a copper metal roof. If a full roof system isn’t in your budget, copper accents or a copper roof, or copper gutters over a porch are also a great investment.

Copper roof accents can really add to the beauty of a premium roof system, such as luxury asphalt shingles, cedar shakes, composite shingles, and slate tiles.

Is a copper roof right for you?

It sounds like you’ve done your research and figured out if a copper metal roof is right for you. However, keep in mind that if it doesn’t fit your budget or isn’t within your means, it may not be the best choice for you.

Installing a new roof is already a costly investment, and if you choose to add copper, it can increase the price even more. To determine if copper roofing is within your budget, you should get an estimate for the total cost of a new roof.

If you are looking to save money in the short term, copper roofing may not be the best choice for you. However, if you are looking for a roof that will last for years to come, copper roofing is a great option that is sure to provide you with long-term value. Contact your Metal Roofing Experts for more information on copper for your roof.