Jedo Elise Door Handle on Rose Antique Brass
Brass is a popular material for door handles. But why do so many people prefer it? That’s the topic we broach in this article. We discuss its characteristics, advantages, and various styles from leading vendors.
Brass door handles evolved from late 17th-century cabinet fittings and door knockers. By the 19th century, the Industrial Revolution was in full swing, bringing down the price and enabling the masses to access more intricate designs.
Contemporary door handles often have minimalist designs. Manufacturers sometimes make them from a single billet of the metal.
Characteristics of Brass
Brass is a durable metal. The alloy of copper uses small quantities of zinc to protect it from corrosion, giving it exceptional resistance against sweat and in-home moisture.
The material also has aesthetic appeal. Its warm golden glow adds a touch of subdued elegance to most rooms, blending into the background and allowing its theme to come to the fore.
Stainless steel is a popular corrosion-resistant alternative to brass. Unfortunately, it can give rooms a sterile appearance and is often less affordable than brass.
Zinc alloy is another option. However, these metals aren’t always as corrosion-resistant, which can lead to discolouration. Not only that, but they have a less appealing appearance, limiting their appeal.
Advantages of Brass Door Handles
Brass door handles have diverse advantages, so many homeowners choose them for their interiors. The balance of benefits they offer is unbeatable.
Longevity
For instance, brass door handles are long-lived, thanks to their zinc component. Unlike copper, they will not tarnish, helping them last for decades. Furthermore, they bring all the benefits of metal and won’t wear out like wood or plastic, reducing how often you need to replace them.
Low Maintenance
Brass door handles are also exceptionally low-maintenance – the occasional cleaning and wiping down is all they need. Unlike wood, they don’t require waxing, and surface scratching won’t compromise the material.
Elegance
Elegance is another benefit of brass door handles. It offers a warm, golden hue and a touch of sophistication to doors. It also works in almost any home interior theme, ranging from traditional to ultramodern or chic.
For instance, brass’s tone goes well with classical furniture and warm wood tones in rustic interiors. It also works with minimalist décor demanding sleek, uncomplicated lines and straight edges. Brushed or antiqued brass can also work in contemporary interiors wanting to fuse styles for visual effect.
Brass in Different Styles and Finishes
Brass handles come in various styles to complement different interior themes.
Modern
Burlington Knightsbridge Door Handle on Rose in Satin Brass
Modern brass door handles have a smooth, solid finish with clean lines, making them suitable for minimalist interiors. Manufacturers create brass that shines like a mirror using fine-grit abrasion methods, bombarding it with tiny particles to smooth any surface roughness.
Antique
Jedo Camille Door Handles in Antique Brass
Antique brass door handles have a more subdued finish. These handles communicate a sense of timelessness and elegance and are suitable for more ornate designs.
Manufacturers make antiqued brass using various methods to generate an aged appearance. Salt and water mixed oxidise the brass slightly, making it appear less shiny and more worn. Manufacturers may also use wire wool or other abrasive tools to give it more surface texture.
Satin
Hoxton Nile Cabinet Handles in Satin Brass
Satin brass handles have a muted glow but no patina (a thin oxidation layer). Manufacturers make them by brushing the metal after production (but not applying any chemicals).
Care and Maintenance of Brass Handles
While brass door handles can last a long time, it still pays to take care of them now and then. Here’s what to do:
- Wipe them down every week or so with a damp cloth to remove fingerprints and dust
- Only use mild soap and warm water to clean them. Wipe dry with a towel afterwards
- Polish modern finish brass with a brass-specific metal polish to avoid the development of a patina
- Apply wax to decorative handles to preserve their shine
Avoid applying harsh chemicals to brass, as with any other metal. Also, ensure you clean carefully if your handles have a smooth finish to avoid scratching them.
Conclusion
Brass is preferred for door handles because it lasts a long time, looks great, and doesn’t require extensive maintenance. It also complements almost any interior theme, making it a safe choice.
Because of this, we encourage you to consider brass handles for aesthetic and practical reasons for your next home improvement project.