A Guide to Copper Post Caps

Copper post caps add a touch of rustic charm to your deck or porch. There’s a copper post cap design to suit every decor, from sleek geometric globes and pyramids to elegantly sculptural organic shapes.

You can find a variety of post caps on this site. You can also purchase low voltage lighted post caps to match your copper post caps.

Installing Post Caps and Finials

Generally speaking, post caps are designed to slip over the top of the deck post, while finials are freestanding.

Decorative post caps and finials can be installed in minutes, and are suitable to be used on any kind of wooden post. Be sure to measure the dimensions of your deck posts and order your post caps and finials in the right size.

For post caps, simply apply waterproof adhesive to the top of the post, and slip the cap onto it. You may also wish to fix the post cap in place using screws, which are normally supplied.

To install decorative finials, apply waterproof adhesive to the top of the post, fit the finial in place and fix it with copper or stainless steel screws.

Caring for Copper

Copper is a soft metal, so you can expect to see a few slight imperfections in the shape of the post cap, which gives a rough, rustic effect. If your copper finials or post caps arrive with major dents, you should ask for a replacement.

Copper finials and post caps will acquire a weathered patina look quite quickly, with the characteristic green tinge which many people find very appealing. If you prefer to keep copper shiny and new-looking, polish your post caps regularly with a copper cleaning solution, or treat them with a sealant.

For more ideas on enhancing your deck railing, please read this article on decorative deck post caps.

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