Copper Rusting?

[Mike Lamb]

This house has copper valley flashing at several places. One of the valleys looked like it was rusting. It had a smooth feel to it. Can copper rust?

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[John Kogel]

Copper-plated steel.

The copper is 'rusting' to a green color. Where the copper has washed away, the steel core is rusting.

If ever in doubt, bring your magnet up on the roof.

The magnet finds steel in roofing materials and also those fancy "stainless steel" appliances and cabinet handles that are actually brushed steel. High quality SS won't attract a magnet as strongly.

[Rob Amaral]

A good little tool is the tiny short level with a clip for you pocket.. it has a magnet on the end... easy to carry.. multi-use.. I think "General" makes it? Good for determining old dirty steel water pipes or painted steel water pipes, things like this and the like..