Copper Blog

As concerns over our environmental impact has increased, home builders and real estate owners have begun using copper more and more frequently in an effort to reduce our carbon footprint. Compared to traditional building materials such as wood and synthetic roof tiles, copper has many environmental advantages that make it a superior choice for home construction.

1. Copper is long lasting. A copper roof is an expensive but worthwhile investment that holds up under all types of weather and dangers. While a wooden roof may need to be replaced every decade or so (and possibly sooner if there is damage from wild animals or insects), a copper roof can last for literally hundreds of years with maintenance.

2. Copper can be recycled continuously. Wood, another natural resource, wears out and becomes weak over time. However, copper maintains its integrity through continuous recycling and can be reused over and over again for multiple purposes. Some copper roofs are made up of 75 percent recycled material. Compared to other metals, copper's recycle value is far higher. Copper has almost twice the recycled value of aluminum and almost four times the recycled value of stainless steel. When it comes to roofing, copper is far better for the environment than synthetic roofing tiles, which cannot be recycled and take up to 300 years to decompose in landfills.

3. Copper is naturally produced. Consumers can purchase copper without worrying about whether the manufacturing process is harmful to the environment. Copper mills use as much as 95 percent recycled materials when producing copper sheeting and many of the copper pipes and fittings that are produced are made up of previously used wire and cable.

4. Copper is an energy efficient resource. When used as piping material, copper efficiently directs energy for use in air conditioning and heating systems with less material than other metals. The way copper tubes are designed cuts down on the amount of refrigerant that is needed to run the system, which makes it easier to maintain the unit and less expensive to operate it. Since copper tubes are smaller than those made with other materials, the heat transfer efficiency is greater in systems with copper tubing.

If you've never heard of copper roofing, you're not alone. In many places, the idea of placing a copper roof on a residential home is unusual. However, copper roofing is becoming more popular in real estate and neighborhood construction due to the material's many advantages over other traditional types of roofing materials. With careful maintenance and upkeep, a homeowner who installs a copper roof can expect his roof to last for years. Copper roofing is initially an expensive purchase, but the cost pays off over the life of the home as homeowners save on other maintenance costs.

There are several reasons why you might consider using copper on your home's roof: 1. Copper is extremely durable. Many new homes are built with lower-quality materials than used in the past. This trend has its drawbacks as more newly built homes have had to undergo roof repair work and even replacement. On the other hand, copper is a long-lasting material and holds up well under extreme conditions that may adversely affect other materials. Some copper roofs have lasted for hundreds of years.

2. A copper roof is an environmentally-friendly investment. Many copper roofs are comprised of 75 percent recycled copper. Rather than using shingles and tar, which may give off unhealthy chemical fumes over time, homeowners can place a copper roof on their homes with the confidence that the natural metal will not damage the air around them.

3. Copper is resistant to harsh weather conditions. In the American west where dry summers result in wildfires, homes with copper roofs often withstand the fire threat since copper is not flammable. In the Northeast and MidWest where heavy winter snows are common, copper roofs are a great time saver since the snow naturally falls off the roof instead of having to be removed.

4. Animals can't eat your copper roof. Traditional wooden roofs are susceptible to all types of wild critters such as raccoons, squirrels, and especially termites. The copper surface isn't too appetizing to animals, though, helping homeowners avoid dealing with these pests.

5. A copper roof adds unique beauty to a home's exterior. Adornments such as copper roofs, copper cupolas, copper chimney caps, copper awnings, and copper weathervanes are simple ways to create a distinctive look. These and other copper decorations are available from Crescent City Copper.

Copper is one of the most long-lasting materials for use in homes. The metal can endure for years, making it an especially good choice for surfaces that get a lot of use such as sinks, roofs, and exterior decor. However, copper undergoes a naturally occurring change that can tarnish its look. Learning how to keep your copper surfaces looking new will help you to maintain your fixtures and adornments throughout the years.

Over time, copper turns green and forms a tarnish called patina. While there are ways to make patina into art or to create your own patina, there are also ways to remove patina to retain your copper's original finish. But before you start cleaning, you'll need to find out if the copper has any special finishes that affect your cleaning methods.

Determine if the copper surface is lacquered. If it has a shiny, glossy surface, then it's probably been lacquered and should be cleaned carefully using warm soapy water and a gentle cloth. If the copper is not lacquered, you can use natural materials such as lemon and vinegar to remove the patina.

One simple way to remove patina is to use fresh lemons. Rinse the copper material with water and sprinkle salt over it evenly. Then cut them lemons in half and rub them over the copper surface to remove the patina. Continue using lemons until the patina is completely removed.

Even if the copper is not lacquered, it should still be cleaned gently. Using rough cloths or scrubbing sponges can scratch the surface. Other natural cleaning material mixtures are also good for cleaning and maintaining copper. Vinegar and salt make an effective cleanser, as do lemon juice and baking soda, and ketchup. To use these other cleansers, place the copper item in a pot, add the cleaning mixture, and use a toothbrush to clean it gently.

For copper jewelry, combine 1/2 cup of lemon juice and one tablespoon of baking soda to form a paste. Apply the paste with a toothbrush and clean the jewelry, then rinse it well. To clean a copper pot, place it in a larger pot with a mixture of one cup of white vinegar and one tablespoon of salt and boil until the copper appears clean. Copper sinks, however, should be cleaned with only soap and water. Even natural cleansers can damage the surface.

Gutters and downspouts are critical to the maintenance of any home or business. Instead of having rain water fall down the sides of the structure, the gutters trap the water and the downspouts guide the water away from the building. Thanks to these basic components, buildings are protected from water damage, which could otherwise seep into the walls and through the windows.

Gutters can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, plastic or metal. However, the ideal material is copper. Copper has many wonderful qualities, as it's both aesthetically pleasing and durable in quality. Copper downspouts will need to be cared for just as any other type of gutter and downspout system, ensuring that the gutters are free from leaves, branches and other debris. But you can expect that the copper will stand up to the test of time, while turning your gutters into something architecturally pleasing.

Copper gutters and downspouts are sold through such companies as Crescent City Copper and will increase the value of a home. Although copper gutters are more expensive on the front-end of the purchase, there is a greater return on the investment. Not to mention, they give a home or business an additional boost. Copper also weathers well and will turn colors as it forms a patina. But this is what makes copper so unique and interesting.

In fact, each year, the gutter system will acquire a new level of patina, so you never know which color you may see from year to year. You can expect your home to be the envy of the neighborhood, and all you'll have to do is stand proud as the copper requires no additional maintenance. Copper offers the additional benefit of being corrosion resistant, even if you live in an area that receives a lot of acid rain. If you do choose to restore the color of the copper, you can remove the patina. Simply strip and re-seal the copper from time-to-time to make this happen. And, since copper looks great with all types of roof materials, you can expect your entire home to come together in harmony.

If you’re looking to spruce up your outdoor space, consider a copper fire pit such as those from Crescent City Copper. Outdoor fire pits offer many wonderful advantages, plus they look neat, too! Fire pits are relatively small and compact, so they fit well on a deck or patio. They can offer warmth on a cool evening or provide a place to melt s’mores in the summer months. The fire also provides a bit of light in a dark space and can serve as a great social tool for those that like to entertain and have backyard bonfires.

Generally speaking, many of the outdoor fire pits that are sold in stores are not made from quality material such as copper. Many are made from sheet metal that wears away quickly and leaves you with a thin sheet of metal that’s rusted through. Once this happens, the fire pit is no longer useful, or even safe for that matter. If you plan to leave your fire pit outside, which you probably will considering it’s an outdoor item, you can expect the sheet metal to rust away within a year or two.

Instead of having to replace your investment every few years, consider a copper fire pit that will last for the long term. Copper is highly durable and won’t rust quickly like metal will. Really, the only thing to keep in mind with copper is that it will change colors. Copper looks beautiful out of the box, but after using the fire pit, it will take on a greenish, tarnished color. However, this is what many people like about copper, as it ages gracefully and builds more character over time. Best of all, you can expect your copper fire pit to last for many years.

There are many different types of copper fire pits on the market, and those offered through such places as Crescent City Copper have practical features that will make the pit safe and secure. Look for fire domes that add safety by keeping the flames covered and contained. Many of these fire domes have unique designs and silhouettes that will serve as a striking centerpiece.

If you find a copper fire pit you like that doesn’t have a fire dome, consider purchasing a spark screen instead. This simple gadget can open and close at your convenience and protect your family from flying debris.

Image Source: Crescent City Copper

This is a perfect example of intricate patina design. In this piece, the artists applied the patina chemicals painstakingly, using actual plant materials in the process of making the artwork. The chemicals have been applied in light touches around the outside of the copper and in heavier doses in the middle, creating a mist-like effect around the pine tree branches. (Image c/o: Copperhand Studio)

This work by copper artist David Savedge is called "Great River". As you can see, the patina chemicals have been added in a specific design to form the image of a river flowing through banks of sand. The chemicals are layered thickly in the middle to create the bubbly texture of a river in motion. The sand banks have been lightly altered to give the brown color a little distress. (Image c/o: Copperhead Art)

This example of copper artwork is made with patina and heat-treated stainless steel. In this art, the image is that of a lake seen from a high vantage point. Again, the patina chemicals have been added carefully to keep the dimensions of the image intact. (Image c/o: Tough Tiny Welder)

Homeowners who want to add a special touch to their outdoor facade may consider buying a copper awning for their houses. Awnings have been used for years to add design and to provide shade for front porches, but copper awnings have several advantages over traditional fabric or wooden awnings.

For one thing, copper awnings last an incredibly long time. They are durable and they stand up to all types of weather conditions. They won't need replacing or polishing and they can be custom-sized to whatever suits the home best. Copper awnings also offer a unique look. While the metal starts out as a shiny, brass color, it turns to a flecked, faded green as it ages, giving the home a bit more character than before.

Before selecting a copper awning for your home, though, there are several considerations you'll need to take into account. For example, will the awning protect your home from rain? The straight answer is yes. Copper awnings are sure to keep the front of your house dry from rain and thunderstorms. What about protection from sun exposure? Again, yes. Copper awnings also provide shade from the sun, making them great places to sit under on a hot day.

What size awning should you get for your home? This largely depends on the look you're trying to achieve. Generally, you want to buy an awning that is large enough to shade your front entrance, but you may want to buy one a little larger than that if you're looking for an extended shade provider. Be careful not to buy an awning that overwhelms the look of your home.

What style of awning should you buy? Again, this depends on your personal taste and the look of your home as is. There are several architectural styles to choose from, including dome awnings, canopy awnings, standing seam awnings, wedge awnings, and textured awnings. The copper experts at Crescent City Copper manufacture all of these copper awning designs for residential use.

Dryer vents have an important job to do, as they're responsible for carrying lint and moist air outside of your home. However, there has been much speculation over the quality of dryer vents, as most homes continue to use the flexible plastic hoses that are not safe. These flexible hoses do not do an adequate job of pushing our moist air and lint and therefore can make people sick. Those with allergies and asthma conditions are more prone to these particles being in the home.

Not to worry, as there is another solution that more homes are taking advantage of: Copper dryer vents. Metal vents are what are recommended by dryer manufacturers, as these vents are most durable and reliable. Copper dryer vents from such companies as Crescent City Copper keep unwanted elements out of the home and expel hot air from the dryer. Best of all, copper dryer vents are a wonderful way to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the home, while offering peace of mind that your air is safer and healthier to breathe.

There are many different styles of copper vents that can be purchased, making it easy to find a match suitable for your home. Instead of having a plastic piece that is attached to the home, you can admire a copper vent that will blend in well with the unique architecture of your abode. Some copper vents stick out more than others, while some lay against the house and have a mesh-like screen. Talking with the manufacturer will help you determine the right fit for your home.

Here are the two most common types:

Slope Dryer Vents - These have clean lines and slopes and an overall modern appearance. They work well with any home.

Sweep Dryer Vents - These are more elaborate in design and have visible lines and details. They work best with Victorian homes.

Once a copper dryer vent is installed, you can rest assured that the piece will remain in tact for years. Unlike plastic dryer vents that crack and let particles leak into the home, copper ones will remain in one piece. And, you don't have to worry about the copper rusting like other types of metal. When the copper does age, it will do so gracefully and take on different colors of patina.

While copper dryer vents are most commonly used in place of plastic dryer vents, they can also be used in other areas where ventilation is needed such as in kitchens and bathrooms. Make your home healthier and more beautiful with a copper dryer vent.

Metal chimneys are used for a variety of reasons, including wood stoves, pre-fab fireplace installations and gas venting. With metal chimneys, a chimney cap needs to be placed on the top. Since there is nowhere for the rain to go with these types of applications, a chimney cap sends rain water away from the chimney. This protects the stove, fireplace or heater from rain water, which will in turn damage the walls and ceilings.

Another reason why chimney caps are necessary is because mammals, including birds and squirrels, are capable of nesting in the chimney. A chimney cap prevents the nests from forming and clogging up the space.

Finally, because metal chimneys are made with layers of metal with no insulation, water and moisture can get in between these layers and cause early damage. With a cap, this problem is avoided and allows water and moisture to escape.

Not all chimney caps are the same. If you have draft problems, you'll want to choose "draft increasing" caps that cause winds to create upward drafts through the chimney cap. If you don't have draft problems, any replacement cap is suitable. Try to find a cap that matches the brand of your chimney, as this ensures that both pieces will work together efficiently.

If you cannot find a cap in the same brand, a generic brand is also acceptable. Just be sure that you speak with the store or manufacturer to ensure that the cap can be used with your chimney. Also consider the material of the chimney cap, as standard caps can be made from steel, stainless steel, aluminum and copper.

Copper is often the material of choice, as it's decorative, elegant and ages well. Instead of rusting, the patina turns a greyish color and prevents the metal from erosion. Low maintenance and a low cost also make copper chimney caps an excellent choice. With the wide variety of copper selections available through manufacturers, there are many options for homeowners that will turn their home into something spectacular.

Crescent City Copper offers a complete collection of copper chimney caps that are both durable and long-lasting. Browse through their online collection and see what they have to offer your home.

Reference: Heart.com Articles

Are you tired of those conventional gutter downspouts that lurk around your yard? Rain chains are the perfect alternative, as they're attractive and functional; a great way to spruce up any outdoor area! They can be made from a variety of materials, including brass, aluminum or iron. However, most people agree that copper rain chains are both aesthetically pleasing and practical for any yard.

Copper rain chains break the fall of water and guide it downward to the ground, just as a downspout would. The rain water can then be collected in a basin or rain barrel; a great alternative to just wasting water. Use the collected water for other things around the home, such as watering plants or gardens.

So what do you want to look for when purchasing a copper rain chain for your outdoor area? The rain chains should be made from 100% solid copper - not copper coated varieties. Solid copper is heavy duty and long-lasting, which means you won't have to worry about rust or erosion. The cup style should also feature an open bottom that ensures that the water flow will flow efficiently, even during heavy rainfalls.

When you've selected a copper rain chain, rest assured that the installation process will be simple. A screwdriver is all you need to remove the old downspout. The new copper rain chain can be installed with a versatile hanging hook that fits almost all gutter systems. If you're concerned about the installation process, check with the company you're purchasing the rain chain from and ask if they have contractors available to help.

Although copper rain chains are a popular way to enhance the yard with a functional device, they aren't something new. Rain chains were first used in Japan in houses and temples. While they have a short history here in the U.S., rain chains have been around for hundreds of years. They continue to be practical, useful additions to architecture with their unique charm and rustic appeal.

There are many different types of rain chains available on the market today from manufacturers like Crescent City Copper. From simple, classic chains to unique shapes like umbrellas, teacups & more, there are copper rain chains to suit every personality and style of home.

Image c/o Crescent City Copper