The copper trim has been coated with a thin coat of exterior lacquer. Over time, the lacquer finish will wear off to expose the copper to the elements. When copper is exposed to the elements, it turns to a rich, green patina finish over time. Some people prefer this rustic coloring, while others want the bright copper sheen to remain.

To maintain a new copper appearance, apply exterior lacquer to the copper every 6-12 months. Exterior lacquer can be purchased in a convenient spray can, or brushed on with a paint brush. The first part of the patina process is the copper turning to a dull, blackish color. If this happens before you are able to apply lacquer, and you want to get the new look of the copper back, use mineral spirits or paint thinner with fine steel wool to remove this blackening color and expose the copper again. Once dry, apply the lacquer as directed above.

When exposed to the elements, copper will begin to age to a beautiful, rich, green patina. But, it takes time for copper to patina to that antiqued finish. If you prefer to speed up the process towards an aged look, use mineral spirits or paint thinner with fine steel wool, but do not apply any lacquer afterward. To hasten this progression even further, take a full lemon, cut it in half, and rub the juices from both halves on the exposed copper. The lemon juice reacts with the copper to accelerate the patina process.