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When choosing various building systems, architects, contractors,
and building owners are faced with having to make decisions about
material performance, life cycle cost, finish, recyclability,
environmental friendliness, and ease of use. Copper is often the
material of choice today, because of its advantageous characteristics
in all of these areas compared to other architectural metals.
In terms of longevity and service life, copper architectural systems
are known to be long-lasting and cost-effective for roofing and
cladding purposes. Many structures in North America feature copper
that has been in place for over 200 years, and in Europe there
are examples of roofs which have been in service for over 300
or 400 years. Today we expect similar life spans for properly
designed and installed copper systems.
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Why does copper have such exceptional service life? When exposed
to the environment, it forms an extremely durable patina which
protects the underlying metal from corrosion, damage, and natural
wear. This very thin layer, which can exhibit a range of colours
from browns and blacks to greens and blues over the life of the
material, is the reason that copper performs so well throughout
Canada. Patina formation starts immediately on exposure, and there
are noticeable changes within six months after installation. The
underlying copper is then protected, resulting in a material that
exhibits great natural beauty, requires little maintenance and
is exceptionally durable.
This copper advantage is important when considering what type
of roof or cladding system to feature on a building. Even typical
single-family houses can benefit from a long-lasting, maintenance-free
material being used as a roofing system. Compared to other types
of architectural metals, copper has an excellent life cycle profile.
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What about copper and the environment? Most copper specified for
architectural installations, whether roofs, wall systems, interiors,
or fixtures, is typically manufactured from recycled metal. It
previously existed as something else, such as plumbing tube, or
electrical wire and cable. As well, when buildings are renovated
or restored, old copper materials, regardless of their age, are
typically recycled, often recouping much of the cost of new materials.
No other metal, much less plastics, or asphalt materials, can
come close to matching copper in this vital area. Copper is considered
a green metal and not just for its colour.
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