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Can Copper Be Used for a Countertop?

I am thinking of using copper for a countertop of a bar. I am concerned about the affects of the food (i.e., lemons) on the copper and the copper on the food. The copper has a thin layer of varnish to add sheen but it is not thick enough to block acids getting through. Are my concerns valid?

Sue Auerbach
Auerbach Architects - Lincolnwood, Illinois
2000

2000

I think your concerns are very valid. Lemon juice with salt, ketchup, soy sauce, and similar salty acids will discolor the copper (making it a patchwork of salmons and oranges). But it sounds practical to apply a heavy lacquer or clearcoat that would protect the copper while retaining its color. Alternately, appreciate the copper for its variegated appearance.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
(Ted is available for instant or longterm help)

Sue,
Since you already have a finish on it. You can use a 2 part commercial bar top epoxy which would give you a finish that is very durable and looks great on top of copper.

Don Angelo
Spring Hill, Tennessee
March 25, 2010

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