Copper spreader tops??

[Cruxandreams]

I am restoring an old boat, and have the mizzen and main Spruce spreaders in my work shop as well as a large sheet of copper... I feel like I remember reading about "I think" Larry Pardey who was talking about putting copper on top of the spreaders of his wooden mast to reduce UV damage. I just feel like it might create a space between the copper and wood that may keep moist and inhibit rot..? Cant find a single thing about it in a google search... any one out there done this, or know anything about it?

[sawingknots]

nope i don't but i think your right about the moisture,a unpainted fence will last longer than a painted one

[Lake Superior Sailor]

My Cal has wood spreaders that are painted and always pealing Sounds like a good idea. Copper roofs aren't new and copper clad boats too, So why not copper clad spreaders--Dale

[Cruxandreams]

So there is not one single sailor out there that has done this? Alrighty well I will post pics when I do, and hopefully it works!

[hellosailor]

The copper wouldn't reduce UV damage, it would end it. And the copper might discourage rot, as copper is probablly going to kill anything trying to eat the wood fibers. Maybe it also will trap heat, keeing the spreaders drier and helping that way, rather than just trapping moisture in the gap?

[Captainmeme]

Why not just get metal spreaders and paint them a wood color?