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Key Takeaways:
A carefully kept property’s roofing and siding can establish credibility with customers and positively impact neighbors and passersby. And serve as more than just a simple physical manifestation of one’s commitment — but also reflective of one’s hard work over time.
Are you thinking about upgrading your property exterior? There are many decisions, from paint colors and materials to budget. One crucial factor you’ll need to consider is property roofing and siding material. With various materials to choose from, the decision often raises controversy is whether to use copper or aluminum. Absolute Roofing and Construction, Inc will discuss each material and determine what will suit your exterior upgrade best! So, continue reading to make a more informed decision before you upgrade.
Choosing the proper roofing or siding material for your property is essential! Before making a final choice, let’s look at copper and aluminum on a few different factors.
Copper is a solid and durable material known to last longer than aluminum. It can withstand weather conditions like hail, snow, and extreme temperatures, making it an excellent choice for roofing. On the other hand, aluminum is also quite durable but not as much copper – hence considered slightly less reliable as a roofing material. However, aluminum is often used for siding since it can resist rust, decay, and corrosion better than copper.
Copper and aluminum are low-maintenance materials. They resist weather and other environmental factors, so they do not require frequent repairs or replacements. Using the material for roofing, you can expect both materials to last for more than 70 years. But copper requires lesser maintenance than its lighter-weight alternative.
Copper has a very low thermal expansion coefficient, making it ideal for roofing and siding applications. t won’t expand or contract too much when exposed to extreme heat or cold. Aluminum is also suitable for this purpose but not as efficient as copper since it does have a higher thermal expansion rate than copper. However, comparing both, copper has greater weight due to its higher density. It would result in heavier roofing requiring additional support. Consult a professional contractor to ensure your roof or siding is designed to handle the extra weight of copper.
The upfront cost for copper is much higher than aluminum, but its superior durability greatly offsets that difference over time. Copper can last more than 100 years due to its natural ability to resist corrosion. In contrast, aluminum may need replacing within 40 years due to corrosion. Additionally, since copper has had an attractive look from day one, you don’t have to worry about painting or staining it as you might with aluminum.
Copper has a significantly lower environmental footprint than aluminum because it doesn’t require energy-intensive processing steps during manufacturing and installation. In comparison, aluminum is much more complicated to process as it must be mined, smelted, and processed before utilization. Despite this hassle, the material does not risk our environment. On top of that, aluminum can easily be recycled and only requires up to 95% less energy than generated from raw materials. It makes both of them popular property roofing and siding materials.
Copper is known for its natural patina, giving buildings and homes a more traditional look as the metal gradually changes color. On the other hand, aluminum has a bright and shiny finish that looks modern and sophisticated. Both can improve the home’s aesthetic appeal.
Before you decide which material to choose for your property roofing and siding, you should consider a few factors.
While deciding on roofing or siding material, you must consider your budget. Aluminum is cheaper than copper, and if you have a limited budget, aluminum may be the better choice for you.
Property size and space also play a role in deciding which material to use for your roofing or siding. A larger area might require more material, making it costlier. Thus, aluminum is better if you want to cover a large area.
The weight of the material should also be taken into consideration. Copper is heavier than aluminum, which can make a difference in terms of installation ease and cost.
The durability of the metal is also an essential factor. Aluminum is more resistant when exposed to weather elements. At the same time, copper provides better protection against lightning strikes and extreme weather conditions like hail storms.
Finally, you should also look into maintenance requirements. Copper requires less maintenance than aluminum but can require resealing every few years. If you don’t want to invest much in regular upkeep, aluminum might be the right choice.
Related: Replace Vs. Restore: Maximizing An Aged Commercial Roof
Selecting copper or aluminum for your exterior upgrade is determined by what best satisfies your requirements and budget. While both metals offer excellent outcomes with unique pros and cons, evaluating these elements thoroughly before making any decisions is essential. Ultimately, you can make a sound judgment about choosing one by researching carefully and consulting a professional contractor as you select an ideal material for your project.
Absolute Roofing and Construction, Inc is your go-to roofing & siding contractor in Pepper Pike, OH, for unmatched craftsmanship and customer service. With over 28 years of expertise serving commercial and residential property owners’ exterior needs, you can rest assured that we will help you select the roofing material for your premises. We are proud to be a premier partner for all your property’s requirements!
Contact us today and get a free estimate for your exterior project.
