What Is Copper?
Copper is a reddish-orange, highly conductive metal that has been used for thousands of years. Today, commercial grade copper is most commonly an alloy containing up to 99.9% copper at its purest. A blend of 99.6% copper and 0.4% oxygen is a common example of this metal’s composition in use.
Copper may be used in the form of sheet metal and other products for decorative and practical purposes. With a signature reddish appearance, copper is one of the most recognizable metals on the market.
Copper Use Cases
Copper is produced in several versatile shapes, each commonly used for both functional and architectural applications.
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Sheet Metal – Copper sheet metal is widely used for roofing, flashing, wall panels, backsplashes, and decorative features, valued for its corrosion resistance and the distinctive patina it develops over time.
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Round Tubes – Frequently specified for plumbing, HVAC systems, and heat exchangers, copper round tubing offers excellent thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance, along with a clean appearance for exposed applications.
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Flat Bars – Copper flat bars are often used for grounding and electrical components due to their high conductivity, as well as for trim, edging, and custom fabrication projects where both performance and visual appeal are important.
Properties
Perhaps the most iconic property of copper is that the metal oxidizes over time, its color changing from a signature red to a greenish color (as seen on the Statue of Liberty).
While not typically popular in architectural projects, copper is frequently found in artwork, plumbing, and occasional decorative or accent pieces within homes, such as kitchen range hoods, trim, backsplashes, and other fixtures.
Cleaning Copper
Copper can be cleaned using a solution made up of 50% lacquer thinners and 50% water. Clean the copper only with the direction of the grain, never against. To clean, use a lint-free cloth to remove dirt, grime, and traces of oxidation, then rinse using clean water, and finally wipe dry with a lint-free cloth.
Pride Polishing: Polished Copper Experts
Pride Polishing is the West Coast’s leading supplier of polished copper products, with expert finishing of sheet metal, plates, and more. Our client base covers numerous industries and use cases, and our expertise include a wide range of finishes and specifications.
If you need top-quality polished copper for your project, our expert team is ready to process your order, large or small, with peerless attention to detail. Reach out to our team today to get started.
