Copper FAQ

In most cases, custom copper orders are completed and shipped in approximately 10 weeks. Larger or more intricate pieces may take longer.

Our copper tabletops are hand crafted using a 20-gauge hand-hammered (or smooth) copper sheeting wrapped around an MDF substrate. We find the 20 gauge copper thickness to be durable enough for everyday use, without adding unnecessary weight or costs to the tabletops. The MDF (medium density fiberboard) is a high quality manufactured wood product and not a cheap 'particle board'. The copper fully covers the top and sides of the tabletop and wraps to about 3/8" under the bottom of the tabletop. The underside of the tabletops are exposed substrate and are framed out to help reduce materials usage and weight.

We use and recommend clear paste wax for protecting your copper tabletop. Over the years, we have experimented with a wide array of clear coats. We find that most tend to go on well and look great once dried, but none of them bond well with patinated copper. Clear coats tend to chip and peel with time and a little use. Once they start to chip and peel, there is really no great way to refinish the copper. Clear paste wax (Briwax works very well) is easy to apply and polish and can be applied as often as needed. It also helps to add a lustrous shine to the tabletop once buffed/polished.

We have seven different patina options to choose from. All of those options are available in a smooth or hammered texture option, with the exception of the Dark Brown Sanded option, as this finish requires the hammering texture to achieve the finished look. The Raw, Dark Brown and Dark Brown Sanded options are the most consistent whereas the others will all provide a fully unique end result. Please see below the FAQ section for examples of our available options.

As we work directly with the artisans on a crafted-to-order basis, it is easy for us to customize the copper tabletops so that they can be built to your specifications. We can alter the shape, dimensions (length, width, thickness), corners, substrate material, and substrate construction. We can also place precise cut-outs for umbrellas or electrical cords. If you have very specific needs, please send us the details of your project and we will be in touch to let you know what we can or cannot do.

Caring for copper is easy. Please review our COPPER CARE DOCUMENT for specifics and details. If you have further questions after reviewing, please reach out to one of our copper experts.

If you are planning on using one of our Copper Tabletops in an outdoor setting, we recommend modifying the construction of the tabletop and using a Pine Plywood substrate instead of the standard MDF substrate. The pine plywood substrate holds up much better in an outdoor setting, especially where more moisture is present. If you live in a high humidity climate or know that your tabletop will be directly exposed to sprinklers, rain or other sources of water, it is recommended that you seal the underside (exposed substrate) of the tabletop with a marine grade sealant. This will help to ensure the longevity of your tabletop when exposed to the elements. There is an up-charge for the Pine Plywood, so please reach out for a quote if you need this upgrade.

Yes, We have a number of bases that pair with our copper tabletops. You can View Our Iron Table Bases Here.

We also have a wide array of Copper & Iron Tables that are pre-paired.

The base you select will ultimately be determined by the shape and size of the tabletop you need to accommodate the desired amount of guests, or seats at the table. We have some bases that are best suited to round and square tabletops, as well as a few bases that are best suited to longer oval and rectangular tabletops. We would be happy to assist in selecting a base that works best for your needs. Just reach out to us.

Yes, in most cases our tabletops can be paired and married with your base. That being said, we may want to alter the construction of the tabletop to ensure an easy pairing. If you have your own base that you would like to use, please send along an image or two of the base and its mounting interface. We can review and provide recommendations on how best to marry the two.

Copper curious? Reach out for more info!