Post Caps
To attach each post cap style to the post, apply an exterior-grade silicone adhesive to the underside of the post cap and place firmly on the post.
Solar Post Caps
Important: All solar panels within post caps and lights need 24 hours of direct sunlight to fully charge.
To activate your new solar post cap:
- Access the inside of the solar light by pressing inward on the side of the clear lens, grasping the edge of the top and lifting it off, or grasping the top and twisting counterclockwise.
- Remove the plastic tab from the battery compartment to allow connection to the terminal. Ensure battery is firmly in place.
- Replace top by snapping onto side panels or twist the top counterclockwise into place.
- Your solar post cap light is now ready to be attached to your post.
Batteries are included with solar post caps but may not be installed. Ensure batteries are seated firmly in place when installed.
Solar Post Caps with Removable Solar Collector Unit
To activate:
- Remove the solar panel by lifting it straight up from the top of the cap.
- Remove the plastic tab from the battery compartment to allow connection to the terminal. Ensure battery is firmly in place (note: some units may have a switch in the "on" position, but no explicit on/off switch).
- Replace the solar panel.
- Your solar post cap light is now ready to be attached to your post.
Post and Stair Lights
- Slide plastic lens back to separate from top portion.
- Open battery compartment.
- Remove the plastic tab from the battery compartment to allow connection to the terminal.
- Ensure battery is firmly in place.
- Attach bracket to post using screws included in package.
- Slide the Post and Stair Light onto the bracket.
Deck and Dock Solar Lights
- Remove the exterior bottom cover using a regular screwdriver and remove the plastic tab to allow battery connection to the terminal.
- Reinstall the exterior bottom cover and tighten securely.
- Drill a 1-3/8" (35mm) hole in the desired location in your deck or stair tread and insert the solar deck and dock light into the hole.
- Light will need 24 hours to full charge.
Solar Post Caps Benefits and Features
Our Solar Post Caps are unique, classic touches for your outdoor project. By day, they add beauty to your deck. By night, they enhance your setting with a welcoming glow, without the hassles of wiring or electricity.
Installing solar post cap lights contributes to a greener environment. Solar post caps get their energy from the sun, reducing reliance on electricity and the need for dry-cell battery disposal. They are also economical, as they do not increase your electric bill.
For a softer glow, batteries can be removed or the plastic tab reinserted to keep lights inactive. If reactivating, batteries will need recharging. Some post caps have on/off switches; ensure they are in the "off" position if you do not want a particular cap to illuminate.
Included with solar post caps are LED light bulbs and rechargeable batteries. With normal use (6-8 hours per day), LED bulbs have an average life of 10 years. Rechargeable batteries last about one year and must be replaced with rechargeable types. Using regular batteries can damage the solar collector.
Please note that LED light bulbs are integrated with the solar cell component and are not designed for replacement. Solar Collector Replacement Units are available if necessary.
(Contains nickel-cadmium rechargeable batteries. Battery must be recycled or disposed of properly.)
Post Cap Care and Maintenance
Metal Post Caps
Our copper and stainless steel post caps feature a thin, clear marine lacquer for protection during installation. Exposure to elements like UV rays, moisture, and pollution can degrade this coating, revealing the metal underneath.
Copper
- Copper naturally develops a patina, progressing from salmon to russet browns and grays, and eventually to a blue-green or gray-green patina.
- To maintain a shiny look, apply car wax immediately after purchase and reapply every 3-6 months.
- For tarnished finishes, remove old coating with mineral spirits and grade 0000 steel wool. Buff for a satin finish. For a mirror-like finish, apply clear lacquer or polyurethane, let dry, then apply car wax.
- To encourage a natural patina, remove lacquer with mineral spirits and grade 0000 steel wool.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel has a hard oxide coating resistant to stains. Maintain this by cleaning periodically with a mixture of vinegar and club soda.
Black and White Post Caps
These caps have a durable, powder-coated baked-on finish that rarely requires maintenance.
Wood Post Caps
As with all wood products, coat these with a high-quality exterior finish to preserve natural beauty and ensure longevity. Apply to all wood areas, including the underside, before installation.
Glass Post Caps
Exposure to elements can cause the filigreed metal on glass post caps to oxidize. Applying car wax before outdoor placement helps prevent initial oxidation. Reapply car wax every 3-6 months as needed.
Note: If your post cap has a wood base, apply a high-quality exterior finish to all wood areas before installation. Reapply annually to preserve natural beauty and protect from elements.