Installing and Maintaining Decorative Post Caps

Generally speaking, post caps are designed to slip over the top of the deck post. They look nice and they also provide protection for deck railing posts from the elements. They can be installed in minutes and are suitable to be used on any kind of wooden post.

There is now a wide selection of decorative post caps available. Every thing from standard cedar to low voltage post caps that will light up your deck. They are pretty easy to install and they will give your deck or fence posts a finished look.

To install post caps, apply waterproof and exterior grade adhesive to the interior underside of the post cap. Slip the cap onto the post. Secure the post cap in place using screws.

wood post caps

Cedar, pressure treated, redwood, mahogany.
Protect with quality exterior wood finish applied to all wood areas including the cap underside before installation.

pressure treated post caps

Treated with a chemical pesticide (CA-B) that protects against insects and rot.
Make sure material is kiln dried. Kiln dried post caps do not need to dry before finishing and can be stained/painted immediately.

aluminum/stainless steel post caps

Come with clear p coating to protect from sun and rust damage. Coating can wear away with time.
Colored steel caps have powder coated finish that is baked on and should not wear. Minimal Maintenance.
Can be cleaned with a vinegar and club soda mixture.

copper or brass post caps

Weathered green patina characteristic of old copper.
For shiny copper appearance, clean with copper cleaning solution and apply a clear protective coating/sealant.