Is Lacquering Door Hardware a Good Idea?
We’re often asked whether or not we lacquer our brass door handles. It’s a great question, as many manufacturers highlight the benefits of applying a clear lacquer to brass hardware, so it may come as a surprise to hear we don’t. This article sets out the advantages and drawbacks of lacquer, and explains why we don’t offer lacquered finishes.
Why lacquer a door handle?
Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc. As the copper oxidises, the brass changes colour: this process is known as patination.
Some people find the depth and character of patination attractive, and the fact that the way the handle ages is unique to their property and they way they use it. However, others don’t like the steadily changing appearance of a ‘living’ finish and want the appearance of their handles to remain the same.
The easiest way to stop brass hardware patinating is to apply clear lacquer, which allows the brass surface to be visible, but protects it from the elements causing patination, such as oxygen and moisture.
Why we don’t lacquer our door handles
There are some drawbacks to lacquering handles: most obviously, the fact that you don’t get the patination that many people find attractive.
However, a factor which isn’t always considered is the tendency of this finish to chip and peel off over time, as a lacquer coat is vulnerable to contact from items such as rings and keys. The damage to the lacquer may not be immediately obvious, but over time the handle will patinate in the small areas where scratches and dents have occurred. This leads to a patchy and uneven appearance with none of the natural grace of a living finish. We have not found a lacquer durable enough for use on door hardware, which is why we don’t offer or recommend it.
If you have any questions regarding our finishes, please don't hesitate to get in touch on +44 (0) 20 8680 2602, or email hello@josephgiles.com.