Maintenance of Metal Post Caps

Copper post caps and stainless steel post caps come with a thin, clear marine lacquer designed to protect them before and during installation. Once exposed to the elements, the sun’s ultraviolet rays, moisture, and pollution begin to break down this coating, exposing the metal underneath. 

Copper

In its natural state, copper breaks down in the elements and develops a patina. In general, copper progresses from a natural salmon color to a series of russet browns and grays, and finally to a blue-green or gray-green patina.

• To maintain the shiny look, apply a car wax immediately after purchasing the cap, and reapply every 3 to 6 months.
• To remove an already tarnished finish, remove the old coating with mineral spirits and grade 0000 steel wool. Buff with grade 0000 steel wool for a satin finish; for a mirror-like finish, apply a car wax. Spray with a clear lacquer or polyurethane. Let dry and apply a car wax.
• To encourage a natural patina, remove the lacquer with mineral spirits and grade 0000 steel wool.

Post Cap FAQ's

Will my copper post caps remain a shiny copper color?
Our copper post caps come with a thin, clear marine lacquer designed to protect them before and during installation. Once exposed to the elements, the sun’s ultraviolet rays, moisture, and pollution begin to break down this coating, exposing the metal underneath. In its natural state, copper breaks down in the elements and patinas. In general, copper progresses from a natural salmon color to a series of russet browns and grays, and finally to a blue-green or gray-green patina.

What does "patina" mean?
"Patina" refers to the natural weathering of copper due to airborne sulfur compounds, which gradually change copper’s surface color. The resulting color, called a patina, depends on location and climate. Salt, moisture, sunlight, ultra-violet rays and pollution can affect the final color. In general, copper progresses from a natural salmon color to a series of russet browns and grays, and finally to a blue-green or gray-green patina. To maintain the shiny look, apply a car wax immediately after purchasing the cap, and reapply every 3 to 6 months. To encourage a natural patina, remove the lacquer with mineral spirits and grade 0000 steel wool. 

How do I keep my copper post cap from turning green/patina?
To maintain the shiny look, apply a car wax immediately after purchasing the cap, and reapply every 3 to 6 months.

Can I speed up the patina process on my copper post caps?
To encourage a natural patina, remove the lacquer with mineral spirits and grade 0000 steel wool.