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Have some copper post caps on order.  While many like the green patina that forms over time, I prefer the copper look.  What would be good to apply for protection from the elements?

(08-30-2019, 05:19 PM)Larry in CA Wrote: [ -> ]Have some copper post caps on order.  While many like the green patina that forms over time, I prefer the copper look.  What would be good to apply for protection from the elements?

Well, you can try lacquer, but resign yourself to cleaning it off, polishing the copper and re-applying every so many years, depending on your climate, as it will eventually fail and start to get funky.  Fairly significant continuing maintenance issue depending on how many caps you are dealing with, which is likely why a lot of folks "like" the patina.....

 "resign yourself to cleaning it off, polishing  and re-applying" 

That has been my experience with wood outdoors also.  Given ten caps I may learn to love patina.
Thanks for your input.

(08-30-2019, 05:19 PM)Larry in CA Wrote: [ -> ]Have some copper post caps on order.  While many like the green patina that forms over time, I prefer the copper look.  What would be good to apply for protection from the elements?

A clear epoxy finish.

https://www.everbritecoatings.com/cart/i...ex&cPath=7

(08-30-2019, 11:44 PM)Woodworm! Wrote: [ -> ]A clear epoxy finish.

https://www.everbritecoatings.com/cart/i...ex&cPath=7

Interesting, thanks.

Powder coating or https://www.everbritecoatings.com/copper.htm

(08-30-2019, 05:19 PM)Larry in CA Wrote: [ -> ]Have some copper post caps on order.  While many like the green patina that forms over time, I prefer the copper look.  What would be good to apply for protection from the eleL

Lacquer will work for a couple of years. Then clean the finish off with lacquer thinner. Make a paste of household salt and vinegar. apply to the cap with a chip brush . Leave the paste on for 30 minutes and scrub the paste off with a kitchen scrub pad. You may need to leave paste on longer if the copper does not come completely clean in 30 minutes. When done, clean the caps with water, re-lacquer caps for another several years.
 
mike

What about spar varnish for boats.

You might try "Everbrite" coatings.

Marine grade spar poly. Works like a charm, and it's spray on.
https://www.lowes.com/pd/minwax-helmsman.../999913673