Upgrade Your Home with a Stunning Copper Metal Roof
Many Minnesota homeowners want their homes to stand out. Whether you’re renovating a historic property in St. Paul or building a new home in the suburbs of Minneapolis, one detail that can dramatically boost curb appeal is your roof. A copper metal roof not only adds style but also brings long-term value and performance. This guide covers the benefits, types, and considerations for installing a copper metal roof on your home.
What Is a Copper Metal Roof?
A copper metal roof is exactly what it sounds like—a roofing system made from either solid copper panels or metal panels painted to look like copper. Homeowners can choose between real copper roofing, which is made of actual copper, and copper-colored painted metal roofing, which mimics the look at a lower cost.
Both options are durable, eye-catching, and compatible with many home styles, from traditional craftsman homes to modern architecture.
Real Copper Roofing: A Lifetime Investment
Real copper roofs are made from solid copper sheets or shingles. One of the biggest advantages is their lifespan—a real copper metal roof can last over 100 years. That makes it one of the longest-lasting roofing materials available.
Patina That Ages With Grace
One of the most unique features of a real copper metal roof is the natural aging process. When first installed, copper has a warm, golden-bronze shine. Over time, it reacts with the elements and slowly changes to a pale green color called patina. This transformation gives your roof a look that’s impossible to replicate with synthetic materials. The green patina also helps protect the copper, making the material even more durable.
According to the Copper Development Association, this patina layer protects the metal from corrosion, making it nearly maintenance-free for decades.
Low Maintenance and Energy Efficiency
Unlike asphalt or wood, copper doesn’t crack, peel, or suffer from insect damage. It’s naturally resistant to mold and algae, making it a great choice for Minnesota’s humid summers and snowy winters. Because it reflects sunlight, a copper metal roof can also help regulate indoor temperatures, cutting down on your cooling costs in the warmer months.
Higher Cost, Greater Value
Yes, the upfront cost of a real copper metal roof is higher than many other materials. But over its lifetime, it pays off. You won’t have to replace it every 20 to 30 years like you would with standard shingles. Plus, if you plan to stay in your home long term, a copper roof adds long-lasting value and charm that can boost your property’s resale appeal.
Copper-Colored Painted Metal Roofing: Affordable and Attractive
If you like the look of copper but need a more budget-friendly option, copper-colored painted metal roofing may be the way to go. This roofing uses steel or aluminum panels coated with a special finish designed to resemble real copper.
Versatile Design Options
Painted metal roofing can closely mimic the tone of aged or new copper, depending on the finish. Whether you want a bright penny shade or a rich patinated green, there’s a product to match your aesthetic. It also comes in different panel profiles—standing seam, corrugated, or metal shingles—so it’s easy to align with your home’s architecture.
With Minnesota’s wide range of home styles, having design flexibility is a major advantage.
Lower Upfront Costs
Painted metal roofs cost significantly less than solid copper. Installation is also faster and easier since these panels are lighter and easier to handle. That makes this option attractive for homeowners who want the look of a copper metal roof without the premium price.
Long-Lasting and Low Maintenance
While painted metal won’t age into a natural patina like real copper, it still offers strong resistance to fading, rust, and corrosion. Many high-quality painted metal roofing products are backed by 40- to 50-year warranties. When installed by experienced roofing professionals, they can provide excellent protection in harsh Minnesota weather.
ENERGY STAR also recognizes many painted metal roofing systems as energy-efficient, which can help homeowners lower utility bills over time.
Choosing the Right Copper Metal Roof for Your Minnesota Home
Selecting between real copper and painted metal comes down to your goals, budget, and the look you want for your home.
Consider Your Budget and Maintenance Preferences
Real copper is a premium material with a high initial cost but very low long-term upkeep. Painted metal offers a more affordable route, with slightly more maintenance required over time, especially if the paint finish starts to wear down.
If you’re investing in a forever home, the longer lifespan of solid copper may be worth the price. For homeowners who plan to move in 10 to 15 years, copper-colored painted metal can still improve curb appeal and help the home sell faster.
Match Your Roof Style to Your Home Design
Minnesota’s homes vary in style—from old Tudor and Colonial homes in the cities to modern lakefront houses in the north. A real copper metal roof with green patina can beautifully complement older architecture, while painted metal panels suit newer or more contemporary homes.
Steep roof pitches work well with reflective copper surfaces that shine in the sun. Meanwhile, a flatter roof may benefit from more muted, painted tones that blend seamlessly into the home’s color scheme.
Why Work With a Local Expert Like Garlock-French Roofing?
Since 1932, Garlock-French Roofing has served homeowners throughout the Twin Cities and beyond with reliable craftsmanship and a deep understanding of Minnesota’s climate. As a GAF Master Elite Contractor, we bring extensive experience in both real copper and painted metal roofing systems. Our team provides honest guidance, precise installation, and dependable follow-through.
Whether you’re upgrading a historic home or building new, we help you choose the right copper metal roof to match your design preferences and your budget.
Contact Garlock-French Roofing Today!
A copper metal roof offers unmatched beauty, strength, and long-term value. Real copper develops a natural patina that evolves with your home. Painted metal gives you that same copper look at a lower cost and with plenty of style options.
Both types of copper roofing are suited to Minnesota’s weather extremes and offer durability for decades. Your decision will depend on your goals for the home, how long you plan to stay there, and the look you want to achieve.
If you’re ready to enhance your home’s curb appeal, lower long-term maintenance costs, and invest in a standout roof that performs year-round, a copper metal roof is a smart solution.
Contact Garlock-French Roofing today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your copper roofing options.
Bryan Karel leads Garlock French Roofing, renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and commitment to quality in the roofing industry. With a keen focus on using high-quality materials and advanced installation techniques, Bryan ensures every roofing project not only meets but exceeds industry standards. Under his leadership, Garlock French Roofing has become synonymous with durability and aesthetic excellence, offering tailored roofing solutions that enhance the value and beauty of any property.