Roofs are an integral part of the house. Every house owner wishes to have the safest roof for their house. Therefore, they choose metal roofing. But there are many types of metal roofs: copper, steel, zinc, aluminum, etc. Selecting a metal that suits best your needs can be tricky, but if you have made up your mind on 2 metals that are steel and copper, we can help you make the right decision. Read on to learn about the differences between steel and copper.
STEEL ROOFING
If you’re looking for an affordable metal roofing material, steel may be a good choice. It comes in three different types: galvanized, which has been coated with zinc to increase its resistance to corrosion. Galvalume is coated from aluminum because of which corrosion resistivity of this type of steel roof also increases. Usually, it is pre-painted and has a wide range of variety in colors. And the last type of steel roof is stone-coated. It is available on roofing panels. These panels consist of steel, which is pre-coated by aluminum or zinc. Also has a top layer that has ceramic-coated granules.
MERITS
- It is corrosion-resistant and dent-resistant.
- Steel is an easily accessible metal.
- It is a highly recyclable metal.
- Steel roofs come pre-coated in various colors.
- It is the most affordable metal roof available in the market.
DEMERITS
- Its lifespan is less than other metal roofs (40 years). Which may even decrease if not installed properly.
- It is prone to rusting, if not painted.
COST
Steel is the cheapest metal roof option available in the market.
COPPER ROOFING
Copper has been used as roof material for centuries. Its beauty continues through generations. Makes it an excellent choice that will last much longer than other materials. Its features stand out significantly among all the other metals in roofing.
MERITS
- Copper is the most lightweight metal in roofing. Because of this, the pressure on the rest of the structure decreases.
- Copper roofs are resistant to fire and lightning both.
- Copper roofs give a stunning look at your house individually, but over time, it develops a layer of greenish-blue color coating which is called patina. This patina adds to the aesthetics of copper roofing.
- Copper is 100% recyclable, eco-friendly, and sustainable.
- It has antimicrobial properties, so it doesn’t allow any microorganism growth on the roof surface.
- A copper roof is the best choice for houses in the hotter regions because it has the ability to protect the house from intensive heat weather and ultra violate radiations.
- Copper is the only metal that can last for up to 100 years if installed properly.
- Copper roofs require the least amount of maintenance just an annual inspection would be enough if it is installed properly.
DEMERITS
- The patina layer can be unpleasant for some individuals.
- Copper changes its size, with fluctuating temperatures, it can be controlled by selecting proper shingles and panels.
- Copper roofs do not fit everyone’s budget.
COST
Copper is one of the best roofing materials because it is the most secure and durable roof material. It may not be cheap, but it is well worth the cost you are paying.
SUMMARY
Both the steel roof and the copper roof have their own significant pros and cons. If budget is not your concern to much extent, copper roofs could be the ideal roof material for you as it is one of the safest roofing materials you can get.