This change is called patina, a natural process that develops when copper reacts to moisture and air. Copper is a popular choice for rain chains due to it's natural beauty and durability.
Patina is the thin layer that naturally forms on the surface of copper as it weathers. Patina develops on copper as it reacts with oxygen in the air, humidity, and a variety of other environmental factors. It’s not rust, in fact patina actually protects the metal underneath. The look can range from warm browns to striking blues and greens, depending on your climate. Temperature, geographic location, air pollution, and roof material all influence the patina's development overtime. It's very hard to predict how each copper piece will look due to all these factors, but that's what makes copper so unique and special.
New copper rain chain products start with a rich, reddish-orange shine. Soon you will start to see the copper start to change color and darker areas will appear as moisture sits on the chain. Your copper will likely turn to a rich brown color. The middle photo (above) is a rain chain exposed to elements in the midwest for a short time. Over time, oxidation can begin to bring out blues and greens, that you commonly see in historic copper elements. This can happen quicker in areas with high moisture, the last photo (above) is a rain chain in Hawaii.
Achieving blue/green patina artificially – If you want that aged look right away, there are some methods you can try to speed up the copper patina process. Keep in mind, artificial patinas can be prone to uneven color and lack of adhesion. So, it's best to let mother nature do her thing if you can.
If you prefer the bright copper look, you can slow or remove patina by cleaning your rain chain with products like copper polish. To prevent it entirely, you’ll need seal the raw copper and regularly clean your rain chain or copper product. Most homeowners choose embrace the natural change as part of its charm.
Whether you love the evolving colors or prefer the original shine, copper rain chains make a statement in any stage of their life.
