FAQ: Copper Cat Roofing Strips

By: Blog Writer     Published: April 29, 2025      Category: Roofing and Siding 

1. What are Copper Cat Roofing Strips?

Copper Cat strips are double-sided copper roofing strips designed to prevent the growth of algae, moss, and mold on roofing surfaces. They are a long-lasting, chemical-free solution that uses natural copper ion release to clean and protect roofs.

2. How do Copper Cat strips work?

When rainwater interacts with the copper, it releases ions that travel down the slope of the roof, killing and preventing the growth of organic contaminants like algae and moss. Test results show Copper Cat can clean up to 30 feet down the roof face​.

3. Are Copper Cat strips better than zinc strips?

Yes. Compared to zinc strips:

• Copper Cat is 20x stronger.

• Offers long-term durability and reusability.

• Cleans the entire roof slope, not just parts.

• Blends aesthetically with 90% of shingle colors as it oxidizes.

• Copper prolongs water contact, enhancing ion effectiveness​.

4. Can I use Copper Cat strips on any type of roof?

Yes. They are compatible with various roofing materials including:

• Asphalt

• Cedar

• Slate

• New or existing roofs​.

5. Are the strips reusable?

Yes! Copper Cat strips can be reused with each new roof installation. They are built to last hundreds of years, making them a sustainable and economical solution​.

6. Do Copper Cat strips contain harmful chemicals?

No. Unlike temporary chemical treatments, Copper Cat uses natural organic chemistry, eliminating the need for repeated chemical applications and reducing long-term costs​.

7. What aesthetic benefits do they offer?

Copper Cat improves the overall look of your roof by eliminating:

• Black streaks

• Patchy spots

• Discoloration due to algae or mold​.

8. How are Copper Cat strips installed?

• Install CopperCat® underneath the top course of shingles, leaving about ¾” of the strip exposed.

• Nail or screw the strips securely in place and cover all fastener heads with high-temperature roofing compound.

• Overlap each strip by approximately 3/16″.

• Continue installation along the entire roof ridge or roofline for complete coverage. Read more here.

9. Do they work on existing roofs?

Yes. Copper Cat strips are designed for both new construction and existing roofing systems. Installation can be adapted depending on the roof type (gable or hip).