It is important to keep in mind that a patina finish on copper is not permanent. These finishes are subject to scratching and removing with improper care or treatment. Therefore, we offer these general guidelines:
- Use a clean, soft, lint free cotton cloth for light dusting.
- A quality furniture polish can be used to restore luster and remove finger prints.
- When wear is evident, or more extensive cleaning is needed, the copper may be waxed with a microcrystalline wax, working in one small area at a time. Typically, on low-contact surfaces, this should not be needed more than once per year. However, on surfaces that are handled more often, waxing may be required more frequently.
- If scratches are a concern, coasters are recommended, as are protective pads under lamps, et cetera.
- Always protect the copper from direct heat, as the surface can remain hot for some time, and this can loosen the bond to the substrate.
- Scrubbing the surface is not recommended.
- DO NOT use harsh cleaning solutions or abrasives on patina finishes.
- DO NOT allow contact with adhesives, i.e.: tape, on the patinaed surface. This may lift the patina, returning it to “raw” copper.
Most of the time, unless requested otherwise, our zinc tables and countertops are shipped with a protective wax finish. A quality furniture polish can be used to restore luster and remove finger prints. When wear is evident, or more extensive cleaning is needed, the zinc may be waxed using a high quality microcrystalline wax, working in one small area at a time.
One of the reasons zinc is so popular, is that it naturally patinas to a darkened, pewter like finish, with dark and light mottling effects. To accelerate this process, we recommend wiping the surface often with a wet cloth. If the zinc reaches a patina that you wish to preserve, you may use the wax as described above. To maintain the “raw” look, you can clean the surface with a Scotch Brite pad, and warm soapy water, being sure to dry the surface thoroughly each time. The zinc will retain any pattern that is scratched into it with this process, so use a light uniform technique. The wax may then be used to slow the patina process, prolonging the "raw" appearance.
If scratches are a concern, coasters are recommended, as are protective pads under lamps, et cetera. Always protect the zinc from direct heat, as the surface can remain hot for some time, and this can loosen the bond to the substrate. Scrubbing the surface is not recommended. Some items, whether acid or base in nature, will patina zinc in a variety of ways. We recommend wiping up spills, adopting a relaxed approach, and enjoy what happens naturally. Please call us with any further questions you may have.
3. Will the color on copper and zinc change?
Yes. Over time the color, or patina, on the metal will change. Typically, zinc will age to a pewter-like coloration, and copper will become a darker bronze-brown color. If in a humid environment copper may pick up some green or bluish coloration. Please refer to the care of these metals to preserve the color longer if desired.
4. Is the finish permanent on copper?
No. Like an old copper penny that develops a dark brown patina, the color can be scrubbed back to “raw” copper.
5. Do you offer other colors of patina?
Yes we do. The aged warm brown is our most popular, and therefore, our standard. However, we do offer other patina colorations when possible. Please call for more information.
6. Do you use galvanized zinc?
No. We use actual zinc sheet material, never a “plated” product.
7. Will you make a custom table shape and size?
Absolutely.
