If you copy the folders without also explicitly copying the permissions, then the problems you had would be expected. The SQL Server install sets a lot of folder permissions which are needed if SQL Server is to run correctly.
Both XCOPY and ROBOCOPY have parameters which force the copying of permissions. The COPY command and copy/paste within Windows Explorer does not copy permissions.
Original author: https://github.com/SQL-FineBuild/Common/wiki/ 1-click install and best practice configuration of SQL Server 2019, 2017 2016, 2014, 2012, 2008 R2, 2008 and 2005.
When I give food to the poor they call me a saint. When I ask why they are poor they call me a communist - Archbishop Hélder Câmara