Copper is a metal that serves multiple needs on a daily basis. From the copper penny in your pocket to the copper wiring that helps power your favorite electrical devices, you use copper multiple times throughout the day.

Copper has risen to popularity as a metal for good reason- it is durable and easy to work with. The same characteristics that make copper a good choice for coins, wires, and major national monuments (like the Statue of Liberty) also make copper a great choice when you want to embellishing the exterior of your home.

Copper elements will add both style and function to your residence, allowing you to boost curb appeal and make your property more resilient over time.

Copper Cupolas

Cupolas have a long and storied history within the architectural world. The original purpose of a cupola was to provide ventilation for the structure directly beneath the cupola. A flag or other ornamental feature could be attached atop the cupola to help add to the appeal of the building.

Today, cupolas don't really serve a functional purpose. They are used almost exclusively for decorative purposes.

Copper is the perfect material for creating a cupola because it is an easy metal to maintain. Decorative cupolas can be difficult to access, making maintenance a challenge. Copper has the ability to remain structurally sound and will actually develop a lovely patina with age.

Copper Finials

Houses with architectural features like spires or gables can be adorned with finials. Finials are decorative ornaments that cap off spires and gables and create a terminal point for the architectural feature. The addition of finials to your home can certainly add curb appeal, but finials serve an important safety purpose as well.

A finial is typically the highest point on your home's roof. This allows the finial to act as a lighting rod for your home. Copper is a highly conductive metal that is capable of transferring the electrical current in a lighting strike safely into the ground.

Your home will be both beautiful and protected against the potential dangers associated with a lighting strike.

Copper Rain Gutters

One of the most common applications of copper to a residential exterior comes in the form of rain gutters. A comprehensive rain gutter system allows water to drain properly from your roof. This prevents serious damage that could compromise the integrity and structural stability of your roof.

Rain gutters can be made from many different products, including plastic and aluminum. Homeowners might shy away from adding copper rain gutters to their homes because of the perceived costs. While copper does cost more to install up front, the longevity and low maintenance needs of copper gutters will make them the more affordable option over time.

Copper is uniquely suited to drain water away from the roof and foundation of your home. When exposed to water molecules, copper develops a protective outer layer. This layer gives aged copper a green patina that is visible to the eye. The patina protects the underlying copper against corrosion, helping to ensure that your rain gutters will not rust.

Copper rain gutters are a practical and elegant way to ensure proper drainage and increase the outward appeal of your home in the future.

Copper can be incorporated into your home's exterior in many different ways. The addition of a cupola, some finials, or copper rain gutters can help you improve both the function and aesthetic of your home.

At Rain-Flow Systems, LLC, we have the ability to fabricate copper elements that fit your home. Contact us to begin work on your custom copper features.