Copper Blog

Door awnings are a seemingly simple and straightforward item. They extend the doorway whether for a home or business. That extension serves a number of purposes:

• Cover the entrance

• Protect arriving or departing individuals from the elements

• Shade the interior

• Break steep winds

• Add curb appeal to the entry

Features to Look For:

• Durability for the area you live in - ability to withstand rain and wind in warmer areas as well as snow and ice in warmer areas

• Sides for additional protection from the elements

• Color palette to accent your home

• Various widths to accommodate your entrances

• Ability to custom design an awning as needed

• Handmade products as they tend to be better quality than machine made products

Popular Materials

Door awnings are made from the same selection of materials as other types of awnings or canopies.The most common are acrylic, polyester, cotton or canvas. Door awnings, however, can also be made from wood, Lexan, aluminum, fiberglass, plastic and sometimes layers of different materials.

While many of these materials can add to the appearance of the entry way, the primary goal is utilitarian. They are there to protect the entrance.

Why Consider Copper?

You can also provide exceptional entry protection and an architecturally attractive awning at the same time through the use of copper. Copper has been used for awnings for centuries and you can still find copper awnings in Europe that are 300 years old and older. They retain their appeal and beauty throughout the years.

Copper is not only attractive but cost-effective and long lasting.Since it is so long lasting, it is the perfect “green” product.

You won’t be replacing your custom copper awning any time soon. Copper forms a natural protective patina when exposed to the elements. The look is eye catching and the patina coat protects the underlying metal surface.

If you have any reason to dress up the entryway to your home or business, copper is the choice for a custom door awning.

If you would like to know more about the beauty and serviceability of custom copper awnings, contact Crescent City Copper at 877-251-5327 or info@crescentcitycopper.com

Have you ever heard the term porte-cochere? It’s a French phrase meaning “coach gate” or “carriage porch” and if you have spent much time in old New Orleans or cities of similar ages and noticed the entrances to buildings and some homes, you have probably seen more of them than you think. A porte-cochere is simply a covered entrance to building that was used so people could alight (get in and out) from a carriage or automobile to enter the building out of the elements and a messy street.

The porte-cochere was commonly found on many late 18th and 19th-century mansions and public buildings. You may have noticed them on famous structures such as Buckingham Palace and the White House.

The modern porte-cochere is a major user of metal canopies in America today. You see them everywhere, especially at the entrance to public buildings or offices as well as places like churches and hospitals where people need extra time to get in and out of their vehicles. Some are simply utilitarian but others are truly are architectural gems.

Getting creative with an old idea

While the concept of the porte-cochere is not new, many designers and architects are putting their own twist on this classic by adding in materials such as copper to the rooflines and awning covers. Of course, it is not the only use of metal canopies, which can be used to cover large areas that extend from buildings, both commercial and residential, no matter the end use.

While aluminum and sometimes steel is used to fabricate a metal canopy, nothing offers the beauty and resilience of copper, especially on a dramatic architectural feature such as these.

Coppers offers:

• Attractive end products

• Architecturally appealing installations

• “Green”, cost-effective and long lasting

• A touch of class and elegance

• A natural patina that is not only beautiful but protects the installation

Image Credit: InterestingArchitecture: Porte Cochere

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.

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)

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

Copper has been used for many purposes through man's history. In our modern day, however, the use of copper has evolved as architects have discovered new ways to use this metal, both indoors and out. One recent example of cutting-edge copper design is the use of copper as an interior design accent. Copper can be chemically fashioned into different color shades to accent a home's palette as shown above.  

As interior use of copper has grown, so has exterior architectural use. In 2009, the winner of the European Copper in Architecture Awards was the Archaeology Museum of Vitoria, Spain shown below. This copper building was designed by the architectural firm of Mangado Y Asociados. The use of bronze to create an openwork design displays a contrast of styles.

Copper can also be used as an exterior surface for residential properties as seen in the Clip House from Spain shown below. This building's exterior combines copper, concrete and glass to create a concept home composed of two separate levels attached to a flat concrete wall. The levels are covered with copper sheets that also serve as walkways, allowing residents to walk between the levels to get a view of the neighborhood.

As copper ages, it develops a patina of blue-green over the metal. A notable example of this process is the Statue of Liberty which is made of copper but has since turned entirely green. Designers are also making use of this naturally occurring process for architectural purposes. Some architects are chemically prepatinating copper to create this blue-green color themselves instead of letting the metal age. This chemically-altered surface is then used as the exterior for residential and commercial buildings as seen on the U.K. building below. 

Another striking example of copper architecture is the Yapi Kredi Bank Academy Building located in Turkey seen here.

This concept building has a copper facade over two rectangular sections. These copper-covered columns contain the academy's classrooms. This design was invented by John McAslan, an English architect.