Post Cap Care and Maintenance
Metal Post Caps
Our copper, stainless steel, and brass 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.
Stainless Steel and Brass
Stainless steel has a hard oxide coating making it resistant to stains. To maintain this coating, clean periodically with a mixture of vinegar and club soda. As with the copper, our brass post caps are protected with a thin, clear coating of lacquer. Periodic reapplication of this clear coating will help to protect the brass.
Colored Metal Post Caps
Our Victoria post caps come in a variety of colors, including white, green, real patina, pewter and black. These colors are a powder-coated, baked-on finish that is extremely hard and durable, rarely requiring maintenance.
Wood Post Caps
As with all wood products, we recommend that you coat these with a high-quality exterior finish to preserve the wood's natural beauty and ensure a lifetime of enjoyment. Apply to all wood areas, including the underside of the cap, before installation.
Glass Post Caps
Exposure to the elements may cause the copper-wrapped solder on your glass post cap to oxidize and lose its original color. Applying car wax before placing the post cap outdoors will help to prevent the initial oxidation. We have found regular furniture polish to have the same affect, but its prevention time may vary based on geographical location. Reapply the car wax/furniture polish every 3 to 6 months as needed.
