Copper Roof Life Expectency & Repair

Life Expectancy

• Copper’s life expectancy depends on the thickness of copper and how it is used on the roof, according to the Mahan Slate Roofing Company. Overall, copper roofs tend to last approximately 50 years. But the parts of cooper roofs that do not receive a lot of water runoff, such as ridge caps -- metal objects that cap the ridge of a roof -- can last approximately 100 years. The light blue-green coating, or verdigris, that develops on copper protects it from oxidation, helping to give it a long life.

Repair

• Copper generally requires few repairs, although, overtime, its oxidation will require repair to prevent leaks and other problems. Giving the roof an annual spray of polyurethane slows oxidation, according to New England Metal Roof.

  Temperature changes over time can cause copper roofs to expand and contract significantly, requiring the roof’s fasteners to be retightened to prevent leaks.

  Roofs that weren’t properly soldered when installed might have areas eventually requiring repair or replacement, especially on low-slope, flat-seamed copper, according to Lyle D. Hogan, in his article "Considerations for Copper Roof Designs."

  Copper is very fireproof, but if a hailstorm occurs and the hail is large enough to dent an automobile fender, the roof's water-shedding capability could decrease and require repair or replacement.

Cleaning

• Proper, regular cleaning of copper roofs extends their lifespans by 30 to 40 percent and helps to prevent some repairs, according to New England Metal Roofing. Dirt and grime quicken deterioration of copper, but homeowners should avoid using harsh cleaning agents, which increase oxidation. New England Metal Roofing advises using ketchup, vinegar or a combination of lemon and salt for effective, gentle cleaning.

Purchasing Weight

• Copper roofs are expensive but very durable. New England Metal Roofing notes that copper roofing is sold in sheets, by weight, with the thickness measured in ounces per square foot. Residences usually use 16-ounce cooper sheets and businesses, 20-ounce copper sheets.