FAQ
Is copper guttering eco-friendly?Yes. Copper is one of the few materials that are fully sustainable being 100% recyclable. It is estimated that about 80 percent of all the copper ever mined (about 13 percent of the world’s reserves) is still in use in one form or another today, making copper one of the planet’s most sustainable materials. No other metal, much less plastics, can come close to matching copper in this vital area. Copper is considered a green metal and not just because of its natural protective reaction that turns it to a green patina.
How long will a copper gutter system last?Copper gutters can last in excess of 100 years being extremely durable and resistant to corrosion in any atmosphere.
How do I maintain my copper gutter?Copper requires no cleaning and virtually no maintenance other than the removal of debris that may fall into the gutter.
Can I use copper guttering if I want to harvest my rainwater?Yes. Copper is a completely natural material present in and essential to all plants, animals and humans. Plants will actually grow better using rainwater, which has a balanced pH and is free of chemicals such as chlorine. Besides its high corrosion resistance and attractive appearance copper also acts as an algaecide and fungicide, keeping growths such as moss and lichens to a minimum which is a benefit when it comes to guttering and water harvesting.
Is copper compatible with other metals and roof materials?Copper is compatible with asphalt shingle, cedar shakes/shingles and clay tile. It can be used for rainwater run-off from fresh or old concrete. It cannot be used on flat bitumen sealed roofs where ponding can cause high concentrations of acid build up and should not be used in direct contact with aluminum or zinc as the copper will cause the other metal to corrode.
Do you offer the gutter in other metals?Yes. We offer our gutters and downspouts in Zinc and Stainless steel as well.
What criteria should I use to compare copper gutter prices?We know that you have other options for copper gutter products although we feel our product is the highest quality available at a very competitive price. When you compare be sure to check that the gauge of copper (i.e. 16oz, 18oz, etc.), the Style (American half round, European half round, Box, K-style) and the size (i.e. 5”, 6” etc.) you are comparing are the same.
How will my copper products age?Left to age in the natural environment our copper gutters will start to mellow within weeks, changing through various shades of brown and bronze until eventually forming a protective green / blue patina, that will naturally repair itself and is unique to copper.
When should I expect my copper gutters to turn green?It takes approximately 15-20 years for your copper guttering to develop the green verdigris patina. However the actual time taken for the patina process to start depends on the location of your property, local weather conditions and other forms of acidic pollution. The below chart is an approximate indication.
What if I don’t want to wait 20 years for a Patina finish?
Green Metal USA offers a pre-patina finish on our gutter and downspout products by special order.
Can I stop my copper guttering from turning to natural green patina?There are clear coat/ lacquer products that are meant to control the appearance of the copper to protect the original finish. But we recommend that you do not coat the copper in an attempt to keep it bright and shiny as the clear coat will have a limited life if not regularly maintained. It is the continuous changing color of the copper that protects it and stops any corrosion.
How do I measure for a Radius Gutter?If this is for new construction, you should be able to get the radius information from the General Contractor. The roof plans should give you the radius to the fascia. However, not all construction is true measure so it is best to take a template of the entire curved area and send to us. Remodels and renovations will almost always warrant a template. We have instructions for measuring your radius area and creating a template if you click on this link.
Do I have to use copper screws to install copper guttering?No. Stainless steel or brass screws can be used with copper. However if you are installing one of our leader heads, also known as conductor heads, scupper boxes or hopper heads, we recommend copper screws as they will be seen.
Can I pick up my copper gutters?Yes. We do keep stock in our Huntsville, AL facility. If you would like to collect your copper gutter products from us please call (256) 489-7814 to arrange a convenient time. At least 48 hours notice is required.
Remember that all of our copper gutters are in 18’ lengths and copper downspouts are 9’10” lengths, unless special ordered otherwise, so please come in a suitable vehicle.