When homeowners invest in outdoor lighting installation, two of the most important factors that will influence their decision about which fixtures to choose are the durability and the sustainability of the lights.
Copper is the premium quality choice for many homeowners when taking these two factors into consideration, and, although the initial investment for copper is greater, it is the best choice, paying for itself in terms of lifespan and performance.
The two primary benefits that copper fixtures offer are:
1. Lifespan – copper lighting fixtures are extremely durable
Copper has been proven to stand the test of time and it’s the reason that it’s used in plumbing, roofing and even structures such as the Statue of Liberty. This is large because copper resists corrosion extremely well.
Copper light fixtures provide resistance to:
- Atmospheric exposure: so that storms and other extreme weather won’t damage the fixtures.
- Freshwater: copper light fixtures offer superior resistance to corrosion by water and soil
- Heat: the bulb won’t damage the fixture.
- Exposure to chemicals: when gardens and using fertilizers or compost, the fixtures won’t be affected if they are accidentally exposed to different organic and inorganic chemicals.
- Damage from electrical applications: outdoor lighting combines electrical, thermal and mechanical properties, all of which a copper fixture can handle with ease.
In comparison, another popular material for light fixtures is brass. Brass does not perform as well as copper since it is an alloy. It is made from a combination of copper and zinc, is likely to leach zinc over time which depletes the zinc from the fixture, leaving the remaining metal porous and weak. This will happen in the case of a copper-zinc alloy fixture in a garden where it is exposed to oxygen and moisture. The color of the fixture will also gradually change from yellow to a less-attractive dull red.
2. Sustainability of copper outdoor lighting fixture
Copper fixtures have the highest sustainability as it is an organic material lasting up to 300 years and is easily recyclable. Even if it gets thrown in the trash, the folks at the landfill will go through and pick out the copper for it to be recycled since it has the highest recycling value compared to other metals.
From an eco-friendly perspective, copper offers the best true sustainability. It stands out from other materials such as plastic and aluminum which are technically recyclable, but in most cases, it is not financially viable, so these materials are less likely to end up being recycled. To put it differently, from the beginning of the production phase to the end of the product’s lifespan, the copper will retain a high percentage of its value. This makes it desirable and financially feasible to recycle.
Copper offers the best option for high quality and value while offering an unbeatable beautiful patina finish that becomes more apparent over time. Because copper is a pure metal as well as being a sustainable, environmentally friendly choice, it’s the most coveted material for outdoor lighting fixtures on the market.
Southern Landscape Lighting Systems in Marietta, GA specializes in the installation of copper outdoor lighting fixtures as part of the landscape lighting installation services. Their copper fixtures offer excellent durability and sustainability as the metal is corrosive resistant, and long-lasting, able to respond well to extreme temperatures.
They are the custom outdoor lighting company for thousands of satisfied clients, offering expert advice, professional installation and excellent service both pre- and post-installation.