By adding less than $150 per each 50 square feet, a metal shingle ceiling can be upgraded to copper.
If you are installing a tin or metal shingle ceiling, consider the option of covering the shingles with copper liquid paint. Then watch the copper finish change to bronze. Or protect the copper finish with a clearcoat, and enjoy a bright, copper-penny appearance.
The steps to converting the shingles to a copper finish are as follows:
1. Recommended approach is to coat the shingles before installing them on the future copper ceiling.
2. If the shingles are old, just insure their surfaces are clean; if new, apply a primer to compensate for any manufacturer's protective silicone treatment.
3. On each shingle, brush on a thin layer of copper liquid paint; let dry for 30 minutes to one day.
4. Apply second thin coat; allow one gallon (two coats) for 50 square feet area.
5. If a clearcoat is added, allow copper coatings to completely dry. (Note: if clearcoat is applied while the copper liquid paint is curing, then the clearcoat absorbs the copper finish irregularly. Also, if the clearcoat is applied too thick, then a milky appearance is visible)
6. Install shingles to ceiling.
7. Touch up any damage. Note that the coppery finish ages to bronze within a few months, so a touch up should be done as close as possible to the original application of the paint. If there is a noticeable difference between a touch up and the initial application, just be willing to wait a number of months for time to equalize the aging process.
8. Each application of clearcoat should prevent a change of the coppery appearance for about five years.
In theory, the copper liquid paint could be applied AFTER the shingles are installed in the ceiling. If that approach is preferred, be prepared for the copper coating to drip and sag more than standard ceiling paints. The formulation for this product was designed for the repair of copper roofs, therefore, the "anti-drip" formulas of ceiling paints are not included. As a result, touchups are usually considered less irksome compared to contending with drips and sags.
Other trim ideas include painting the pipes, heaters and other metal room accessories with the same copper liquid coating.
For other copper paint ideas, this page illustrates some uses, or check out the copper liquid paint blog.
CLICK HERE To purchase copper liquid paint or call direct 610-941-1051.