Brass hardware has been a luxurious look for centuries. It has stood the test of time, proving itself to be a durable and stylish option. The physical qualities of brass are what make it far superior to other common materials. In this guide, we will explain those qualities, and what makes brass such a great option for your bathroom
For centuries, brass hardware has been been known for its luxurious, traditional style. While primarily being viewed as such, modern brass hardware is no longer limited to the same look of old. Brass hardware can come in a variety of finishes, from chrome to matte black. Of course, the greatest quality of brass is its durability.
Most hardware is made of zinc or aluminum. These materials are less expensive than brass, and easier to mould into various shapes. This makes them an easy choice for mass production. However, they lack the durability that brass carries. In addition to being stronger, brass has a higher corrosion resistance, which adds to longevity, especially in a bathroom.
When you are touching your hardware day in and day out, wear and tear will add up, and after several years, you will see the effects. Brass is a great material for faucets and bathroom accessories because it bonds well to chrome and other finishing materials. The strong bond is what keeps your faucets looking great for years. The finish will not wear off like it does with zinc and aluminum core materials. Additionally, bathroom hardware will be constantly around and in contact with water, therefore the strength of the material is very important. The extra durability of the material more than makes up for the extra cost. Finished brass is known to last 2-3 times longer than finished zinc or aluminum.
In addition to its strength, brass hardware has a smoother finish than other metals. While being smoother is great from an aesthetic standpoint, the smooth nature of the metal also helps provide a stronger finish when being applied to the brass base. Brass is also known for its use in situations when it is important that sparks are not struck. A small but handy advantage for anyone with carpets.
The most common complaint of brass hardware is the cost. However, most of that cost is offset by its durability and longevity. With modern technology's ability to give brass a different finish than the more traditional look, brass hardware is not only durable and clean, but quite versatile in style.
