| Frequently Asked Questions
Is copper guttering eco-friendly?
Yes. Copper is one of the few materials that is fully sustainable being 100% recyclable and to date only 12% of the current known reserves have ever been mined with 90% of copper scrap being reused. 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 for its colour.
How long is your copper guttering expected to last?
Once installed your copper gutter will last in excess of 100 years being extremely durable and resistant to corrosion in any atmosphere.
What about maintaining your copper gutter?
Your copper guttering will not require any painting or cleaning and virtually no maintenance. It is therefore particularly suited for areas that are difficult or dangerous to access after completion.
How easy is copper guttering to install?
Any tradesman or competent DIY enthusiast can install our copper rainwater systems quickly and with the minimum of effort simply using silicone sealant and pop rivets. Full fitting instructions can be downloaded here.
Can I use copper guttering if I want to harvest my rainwater?
Yes. Copper is a wholly 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 with obvious benefits when it comes to guttering and water harvesting.
When should you expect your copper guttering go green?
It takes approximately 15-20 years for your copper guttering to develop the green verdigris patina. However if you don't want to wait that long we have a solution that can be applied after installation that changes the copper green within a few hours.
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Can I stop my copper guttering going green?
Eventually your copper guttering will always go green and we recommend that you do not coat the copper to try and keep it bright, as it is the continuous changing colour of the copper that protects it and stops any corrosion.
Can I rest a ladder against copper guttering?
No. Copper is a very lightweight material for ease of installation and has a very long life but could be dented by the pressure of a ladder resting against it.
We want our waste pipes to match, is this possible?
Our 100mm diameter copper downpipe can be used for waste pipe or we can supply 120mm diameter pipe if required. Please contact us for further details and to discuss your requirements.
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 hopper heads we recommend our copper screws as they will be seen. Can I use copper guttering with cedar shingles?
Yes, these two materials are compatible. It is even recommended that when installing a cedar shingle roof copper strips are attached to the roof ridge to help prevent moss build up. |