If you’ve driven by the NC State Capitol — and looked up — lately then you may have noticed workers replacing the old copper on the dome, which turned a greenish-blue color due to the elements. Soon, the capitol building will have a shiny penny-colored roof.
This will be the third roof replacement for the Raleigh landmark. The dome’s original copper was first replaced in 1888 and again in the late 1960s and 1970s.
The building will remain closed to the public until further notice while crews work to update and repair the heating, ventilation, HVAC system, and deteriorating mortar and stone on the building’s exterior.
But don’t worry — it’s expected that the roof will turn back to its beloved green color in 10 to 20 years, depending on the weather.