Copper Maintenance and the Ageing Process

Each of our copper lanterns have been crafted from solid copper sheeting and coated with a light lacquer. This protective lacquer will break down over time when exposed to the elements, allowing the copper to naturally age. This aging process is known as oxidisation, whereby oxygen in the air reacts with the copper elements in the product.  One example of a copper’s final colourisation process is the famous Lady Liberty Statue in New York City.

Copper Ageing Process

Despite this colour change, this completely natural process will not affect the structural integrity of the item. The speed of which the copper will age is dependent on various factors including high pollutant areas and the proximity to the coast, both of which will age the copper to a rich green Verdigris finish. Generally, if a copper item receives no maintenance, it could take between six months to two years for the item to start to patina. As this process is organic, some areas of the copper item may age quicker, and it may take some time for a completely even Verdigris finish. Of course, the process of aging will be accelerated near the coast due to the salt content in the air.

For those who wish to keep the polished copper appearance for aesthetic reasons and to help slow down the natural ageing process, we recommend an annual coating of yacht varnish, available at most DIY stores, to keep your copper item in a 'like-new' condition.  

Sadly, once the copper item begins to oxidise, there is no way to refurbish it back to its original polished copper state, therefore scheduled annual maintenance is crucial. 

Copper Lanterns