Is Unlacquered Brass A good choice for Renovation 2025 !
When planning a kitchen renovation, selecting the right materials for both aesthetics and functionality is a crucial step. One material that’s been gaining attention for its vintage and antique look is unlacquered brass. In this article, we’ll explore whether unlacquered brass is a good choice for your kitchen in 2025, looking at its characteristics, applications, and maintenance requirements.
What is Unlacquered brass ?
Unlacquered brass, also known as raw brass, is a metal alloy made of copper and zinc without any protective lacquer coating. This untreated surface allows the brass to develop a natural patina over time. The patina results from oxidation and exposure to environmental elements like moisture, air, and handling.
The patina gives unlacquered brass a vintage look. The color evolves over time, transitioning from a shiny finish to a matte and eventually to a darker, showcasing the natural lifecycle of brass.
Unlacquered Brass vs. polished Brass ?
When choosing brass finishes, you’ll encounter two main options: polished brass and unlacquered brass. Here’s how they differ:
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Polished Brass: This finish is typically coated with a protective lacquer to maintain its shiny look. It doesn’t develop a patina and doesn't require much care !
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Unlacquered Brass: in other hand is brass with no protective coating, develops a natural patina with the time. unlacquered brass requires a bit more care and maintenance if you wanted to restore it to a shiny brass look.
Kitchen Applications: Bridge Faucets, Knobs, and Pulls
Matching all items of a kitchen is always the hardest part in renovation. At Oldenglow, we don't only have kitchen faucets in unlacquered brass but also all kitchen hardware that comes with.
- Bridge Kitchen Faucets : we make it easy for you to choose from a single hole faucet, two holes or even three holes. With a variation of sizes and handles to keep the customisations up to you !
- Pulls and Knobs : mushroom knobs, round knobs, cup pulls or bar pulls, available in different sizes and styles.
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Pot Racks : In addition to knobs and faucets, pot racks are also available in bigger sizes (+ 60 inches). we are offering 10 "S" hooks along with the pot rack rods.
Along with these unlacquered brass kitchen fixtures, pot fillers and sinks are also available to complete the look of your kitchen.
How to Care for Unlacquered Brass Faucets and Hardware ?
Taking care of unlacquered brass is such an easy step. the material naturally develop a patina over time, but it always possible to get back to when it starts : shiny brass.
To overcome the brass patina look, you can either use homemade solutions or buy specialized cleaning products:
- Homemade Solutions: Use a mixture of vinegar, salt, and flour to create a paste, or try lemon juice and baking soda for gentle polishing. A soft cloth and fine steel wool can also help remove tarnish.
- Commercial Products: Brass cleaners like Brasso or Wright’s Brass Polish offer quick and effective results. Protective sealants can also help maintain the polished look for longer.