If you live in a historic home with elegant architecture, you may wonder about the best type of roofing to get with a new roof installation. Consider if copper would be a good choice. Copper is one of the older types of roofing, and has been used on historic homes and church buildings for many years. Copper protects your home and it has a beautiful look. Here are some things to know about installing a copper roof.
1. The Proper Underlayment Is Essential
Underlayment goes over the deck and under the copper panels. When a new roof installation is done, the roofer puts down underlayment to protect the deck from moisture damage. However, copper is unique in that it can react with certain types of underlayment.
Condensation forms on the underside of the copper and when certain types of underlayment get damp, a chemical reaction occurs that can cause damage to the roof panel. The roofer can prevent this problem by topping the underlayment with a thin barrier sheet that keeps the copper roof panel and underlayment from touching each other.
2. The Right Kind Of Nails Are Needed Too
It's also important to use copper nails with copper roofing because if another type of metal nails are used, they will react with the roofing panels. Standing seam copper panels are attached to the roof with copper fasteners.
The fasteners loop over the panel seam and are nailed directly to the deck. Then when the panels are fully installed they cover the nails to keep rain away. This is one reason a standing seam metal roof is less prone to leaking. Plus, when the fasteners are hidden, the roof is more attractive.
3. Metal Roof Panels Are Thin And Easy To Crimp
Metal roofing is fairly thin and light so it is easy to trim and crimp while installing the roof. Metal panels may have the standing seams formed before the panels are delivered, but the seams still have to be joined together. This is done by placing one seam on top of the other and locking them into place.
Once the seams are locked, the roofer uses a tool that bends the metal over so rain is kept out. Standing seam metal roofing can be double locked for the most protection against rain. This involves bending the seam over a second time so rain can't roll through and get on the deck. Other parts of the roof can be crimped with hand tools to ensure there are no open areas that could let in rain.
A copper roof can last for decades. Copper is one of the longest-lasting types of roofs. When your new roof installation is complete, the copper roof will be shiny and reflective like a mirror, and as it ages, the copper will oxidize and slowly turn green. Both colors are beautiful looks for a historic home.
