Choosing between Real and Faux Copper Awnings

If you are up to date on the latest architectural elements, you already know that copper awnings are one of the hottest new trends, and for very good reason. Though it may be considered a luxury purchase, a copper awning has many beneficial qualities, and this is why homeowners everywhere are scrambling to get one. These beautiful additions to your home add subtle shine and a rich quality to your home, while also helping to protect your house and family from the elements.

Now, in your search to find the right style or design that suits your particular tastes and home, you may run across a faux version awnings, which people sometimes perceive as being much less expensive while still offering the same general appearance in the beginning. And while the lower initial cost might seem like a big factor, you should consider other things as well before making a decision.

First of all, you have the issue of durability and maintenance. Because the “faux” awnings are not made from real copper, you will eventually have to worry about the maintenance and repair on it just as you would a fabric awning. It is likely that the metals and materials used for a faux awning will not last as long, meaning you will eventually spend more money keeping up with your awning than you would have if you had just paid out for the real thing. So in this case, the lower initial cost may be offset by higher maintenance expenses, or the need to be replaced sooner than with the “real thing.”

So while we’re on the subject of price, it helps to compare actual numbers. The faux products are actually made of aluminum. As such, they can be either built by hand or by machine and created in a number of different styles. This means they still have significant costs of craftsmanship – and so the only real price difference is the cost of materials. In most cases, aluminum will be cheaper, but the gap may not be as big as you think.

The “green” movement is another factor. Copper awnings are considered environmentally friendly, as they are made from all-natural materials. That means you can be sure that no chemicals were used for the construction of your new design element. If, however, you choose the faux awning, there is no telling what materials might have been used to create it. If you feel that caring for the planet is partly your responsibility, then the true copper awnings will always be a much better choice for you.

Finally, you have the style issue. The faux products are somewhat limited in color choices, and never develop the characteristic patina of the real thing. You may also find yourself limited in the colors of the bottom (which is what you see when you enter the home) to white or light grey which can be a dramatic difference from the deep maroon associated with copper.

Others may just want the knowledge that they have the best possible materials in use on their home. Copper is certainly a luxury, but it is beautiful, durable, and resistant to the elements. After some time, your copper awning will take on a beautiful aged appearance that will only add to the distinguished look of your home.

Many people feel these are details they absolutely can’t live without, and you might feel that way also. If you do feel that you want only the best for your home, then there is no question. You should forego any ideas of using a faux copper awning and get the beauty and quality that genuine copper can offer.

Crescent City Copper has one of the large selections of handmade copper awnings on the internet, with a variety of styles and designs to choose from. If you still want to do more research, they also have an interesting article with good reasons to choose copper over other materials like the aluminum used in the knock off products.