The Iconic Copper Cupola Roof | 5 Good Reasons & How To

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copper cupola roof for horse barn

Cupolas are a beautiful piece of architectural history that adorn many buildings today. There are a lot of styles and options when it comes to buying a cupola. One of the most iconic pieces you have options for is the roof. Of the popular cupola roof options, the most sought-after is the copper cupola roof. When I think about the words “metal” and “roof” all I can picture is lightning… So let’s take a look at why this option is chosen most by cupola lovers everywhere!

Are Copper Cupola Roofs Dangerous?

The short answer is no. You would hope something architectural that is mass-produced to be placed on people’s roofs will not cause irreparable harm to them or their homes. In fact, according to Decra,

 “In fact, as a non-combustible material with the highest Class A fire-resistance rating, metal roofing is the most desirable material for homes and businesses in lightning-prone regions.”

And

“Extensive research on lightning protection reveals that metal roofing is no more likely to attract a lightning strike than any other type of conventional roofing material”.

copper cupola roof and lightning

Even though it doesn’t seem logical, the material in copper cupolas won’t actually cause harm with lighting strikes, in fact, copper roofing will actually put a stop to a spreading fire. Copper does not burn! As you do more research, you will find places like Roofing Calc saying the same thing! Among all of the cons and reasons you will find for not using a copper roof, dangerousness is not on that list. 

Why Choose A Copper Cupola Roof

copper roof cupola on a shed

Now that we are out of the danger zone, we can take a look at the reasons you would want to choose copper for your cupola roof!

copper cupola roof PA

How Are Copper Cupola Roofs Made?

Jason from J&R Senior Sheetmetal does a great job walking through the process of making a copper cupola roof! Keep in mind that this cupola is massive, and will take much longer than any traditional cupola.

In this first video, we see Jason begin to work with the copper sheeting, and folding and arranging it to be able to lay on the cupola foundation.

Creating the perfect copper cupola roof starts with copper sheeting. After bending and adjusting the sizes, they are laid into place and bolted down. With a lot of cutting and adjustments, you can see the roof come together as one piece. In this next video, we join Jason after finishing the first process with the copper sheeting. He is heading up on the roof to get ready to bolt the copper roofing down to the giant cupola!

Downsides Of A Copper Cupola Roof

At this point, you may be asking the question “are there any downsides to choosing this cupola roofing style”. We wanted to make sure you were aware of a few things before making your purchase.

unexposed copper cupola roof
Unexposed Copper
one year exposure copper cupola roof
1 Year Exposed Copper
five years exposure copper cupola roof
5 Year Exposed Copper
25 30 years exposure copper cupola roof
20-25 Year Exposed Copper
aluminum coppertone copper cupola roof
Copper-tone Aluminum

Pairs & Styles Of Copper Cupola Roofs

There are a few different styles and combinations that you can choose for your cupola roof. It is up to you how you want to put these together! You can view multiple options at a time right here

hexagonal vinyl copper cupola roof with louvers
copper cupola roof with windows

On some of our cupolas, you can also purchase the copper roof already with a patina so that you don’t have to wait for it to happen. 

When it comes to pairing your copper roof with the other choices of a cupola, make sure to look at all the options to see what best fits your property. Here are 4 choices you can pick from to design your new copper cupola.

  1. Windows – If the eyes are the windows to your soul, then through the cupola window is the soul to your structure. Whether barn, garage, house, shed, or home…a windowed cupola gives a beautiful adorning. 
  2. Louvers – Functioning louvers can give the flowing air that your space needs. Air out that barn with the addition of a copper roof cupola with louvers.
copper roof cupola boat house
  1. Vinyl – The vinyl cupola gives a modern adaptation to a timeless architectural piece. It allows more focus to be brought with the radiant white color in addition to the glow from the copper roof.
  2. Wood – The wooden cupola is the perfect brother to the copper cupola roof. The antique style with the ability to stain in different colors gives you control over the look of your building. 
wood copper cupola roof

Conclusion

If you are looking for a beautiful way to top your structure, a cupola with a copper roof is a great place to start. The pros seem to far outweigh the cons, not to mention, copper is still very sought after because of its appearance. You will be environmentally friendly while also making an investment that will last beyond your lifetime. There is a reason that the French gave the U.S a beautiful copper statue. They knew it would be around for generations to come! With the additional choices, you can design your cupola to tie your property together.

copper cupola roof on a home

Browse through the beautiful copper-roofed cupolas today!