Choosing A Copper Back Splash

There is nothing like walking into a kitchen that hasThe appropriate thickness for a back splash depends
the warm look of a copper back splash. Copperon the application. The best advice we can give you
sheet suitable for use as a back splash comes in ais rather obvious. The thinner the material the easier
variety of finishes: smooth, hammered and a numberit is to form around corners and cut with shears or
of unique textures are available. A copper back splashsaw. However, the thinner material dents and curls
can be installed just like flashing on a roof, or you canmuch easier. Also, thinner copper sheet won't hide
cover a board with the copper sheet material andwall imperfections as well as thicker material.
install that, as you choose. Generally, when copperAs a rule of thumb, if the wall surface is smooth and
sheet is used as a back splash it is not nailed oror you need to form the sheet around a corner .020
screwed to the wall, instead, use an adhesive caulkor .032 thickness sheet will work well as a back
that is compatible with metals. If you want tosplash. If the wall is not smooth and you don't want
preserve the shiny look, use several thin coats ofto form the material, .040 or .050 will make a very
lacquer on the copper. This will help protect it fromdurable bask splash.
fingerprints or changing color. Leaving it natural willOne final point to consider is the weight of the sheet.
result in darkening and even some greening. This is aThe heavier the sheet the better the mounting
self-protective patina, which is valued by manyadhesive must be or a greater quantity must be
because it adds character and depth to the metal.used. The easiest way to determine the weight of
You may also clean it periodically with Twinkle (orcopper sheet is to use this formula "thickness x
some other copper cleaner/polisher). Keep in mindwidth x length x .322". As an example, copper sheet
that copper is a softer metal which is subject towith the dimensions of .032" x 24" x 36" will weigh
scratching and denting; again, this is a look that many(.032 x 24 x 36 x .322) 8.9/lbs.
people desire.Good luck with your project.
Copper sheet comes in a large range of thicknesses.