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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
(Ted can offer longterm or instant help)
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

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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