Benefits of a Lead Coated Copper Roof

If you are in search of the perfect material to use for your heritage or architectural roofing project, you should consider lead-coated copper, one of the most commonly used roofing materials out there. Here are a few reasons why it is worth considering installing lead coated copper roofing for your project or home:

What is Lead Coated Copper Roofing?

Combining the benefits of both lead and copper, lead coated copper flashing and sheeting presents a finished project superior to other metal roof options in many aspects.

Copper has been used for roofing purposes ever since Medieval Times and remains very popular until this day, not without a reason. Copper is flexible, lightweight, resistant to corrosion and weather, and extremely durable with an average lifespan of 75 years. When the roofing is installed correctly so that copper edges do not touch other materials, the lifespan can reach up to 100 years.

The lead coating on either one or two sides of copper sheets aids in further protection of the roofing from corrosion and weathering. In addition, lead is very malleable and can be shaped into various forms at relatively low temperatures. Lead can be even easily manipulated with simple hand tools directly on the worksite.

The powerful combination of lead and copper produces a material that is easy to work with and highly durable. It is ideal for flashing around chimneys, wrapping complicated facades, and for protecting a roof from natural elements.

Benefits of Lead Coated Copper Roofing

Lead coated copper roofing has a number of benefits. We have already talked about flexibility and durability, but there are other benefits as well:

  • Versatility. Lead coated copper can be used on both low pitched and steep roofs. It can be painted more easily as compared to other metal roofing options, or it could be left with its natural patina, which is compatible with new construction and older buildings alike.
  • Leak resistance. When properly installed, lead-coated copper roof panels are extremely watertight. Lead edges are bent up at the seams, with a cap placed over the top. A small tab is then soldered on to make sure the cap remains in its position, while also allowing for movement to prevent buckling.
  • Ideal weight. Lead coated copper pieces are considerably lighter than lead-only panels, reducing the roof load – something that needs to be taken into consideration for aged structures. Nonetheless, the material is heavy enough to avoid serious risk of blow-off or wind damage.
  • Stain resistance. Another benefit of lead coated copper roofing material is that it does not easily stain or cause staining on other elements of the building. The grayish patina created by the lead coating is non-water-soluble, meaning that lead will help shed water faster than pure copper and not dissvole into the run-off. Lead coated copper will not stain your brick, stone, or other masonry.
  • Environmentally safe. Some people fear that similar to lead paint, lead roofing can be harmful to humans and pollute nearby groudwater. However, it isn’t the case. The lack of solubility not only prevents staining, but also ensures that the roofing material doesn’t cause contamination of the evironment or pose a health hazard.

Homeowners and contractors looking for the optimal material for consturction projects, and especially for restoration projects, should take into consideration the numerous benefits offered by lead coated copper. Not only can it conform to intricate patters, but it won’t harm the environment or your stonework and will endure for up to a centure. The silvery grey patina of the material is highly attractive, while still being able to “blend in” in a variety of settings, and its cost is well-justified by its longevity and performance.

What is a Standing Seam Metal Roof

Standing seam metal roofs are among the highest-quality roofing systems that you can choose for your home or construction project. Metal roofs are known to offer superior durability and protection, all combined together in a cost-effective and sustainable package. Let’s take a closer look at what a standing seam metal roof is and what advantages it can offer to your home.

What is a Standing Seam Metal Roof?

A standing seam metal roof includes a flat metal panel running between the ridge of the roof to the eaves connected to other panels with secure fasteners. The standing seam is what conceals the fasteners; it usually “stands” one to two inches above the panel. 

The standing seam is more effective in protecting the connection between the panels from the environment, as compared to a traditional metal roof. It also facilitates thermal movement and water runoff, as well as reduces the build up of debris like leaves, sticks, and snow.

Benefits of a Standing Seam Metal Roof

A standing seam metal roof is a weather-resistand and durable shield that effectively protects your home against rain, wind, hail, and other weather elements. There is a variety of benefits that metal roofs can offer for your home, but some of the most notable are easy maintenance, durability, sustainability, and overall value.

  1. Easy Maintenance

Metal roofs are much simpler to maintain as compared to traditional asphalt roofs. The design of the roofing panel collects les debris and dirt than traditional roofs. When the roof does require cleaning, the dirt can be easily removed with water and soap. 

If you don’t feel comfortable cleaning the roof yourself, you can hire a professional like Royal Roofing Inc. to do it for you, so that you can avoid injury or potential damage to the roof.

  1. Extreme Durability

Metal roofs are well-known for their superior durability and protective capabilities. The roof can last up to 70 years before it requires replacing, compared to the lifetime of 20 years for an asphalt shingle roof. 

In addition, standing seam metal roofing offers greater impact and wind resistance than traidional roof types, so you won’t have to worry about replacing shingles or repairing the damage every time the wind picks up. Even a falling tree branch is unlikely to cause serious damage like holes and cracks – at most, a dent may appear, which is only a cosmetic damage. The integrity of your roof will be preserved, and it will continue to effectively protect your family and your home.

  1. Sustainability

Standing seam metal roofs present one of the most sustainable roofing options on the market. They can be created from up to 95% post-consumer recycled aluminum, and, when the time comes to replacing the roof, all the materials can be completely recycled.

Furthermore, metal roofs are more energy-efficient as compared to asphalt shingles or other roofing materials. They effectively reflect sun’s heat from your home, keeping it cooler during the summer. On the other hand, asphalt roofs absorb heat throughout the year, which may insulate your home in the winter, but will make your AC work harder to cool your home during warmer months.

  1. Lifetime Value

Finally, standing seam metal roofs are gaining more popularity among homeowners due to the rising cost of oil, which causes a corresponding rise in the price of asphalt shingles. Homeowners are comparing the cost of labor, materials, and maintenance of different roofing options and are seeing the real value that a metal roof can offer.

Metal roofs have a longer life than asphalt shingle roofs, and, as such, a greater lifetime value. A strong and durable standing seam metal roof will increase the value of your home, while costing less to maintain than usual shingle roofs. Even though it requires a greater initial investment, the payoff of a standing seam metal roof arises form its superior protection of your home and the overall value of the roof.

Customize Your Standing Seam Metal Roof

There is no doubt that a standing seam metal roof is a one-of-a-kind option. With a metal roof, your home will stand out from other homes in your neighbourhood, and you will have an option to customize its shade to match your home’s design. If you can’t decide on the colour, consult Royal Roofing Inc. to discuss your options. 

Whatever colour you end up choosing, a standing seam metal roof will surely serve you well – both practically and aesthetically – and it will continue to protect your property value and your home over the years.

If you are interested in learning more about whether a standing seam metal roof is right for your home, Royal Roofing Inc. can certainly help. Give us a call today!