Bathroom Taps For Your Bath
If you’re
remodeling your bathroom,
choosing your fixtures could
seem like the least of your
worries. But your fixtures make
a big difference in how your
bathroom will look when it’s
finished.
A well-planned choice will
provide the perfect accent to
your bathroom, while a less
well-suited set of fixtures will
lessen the impact of your
decoration. In addition, some
metals are more high-maintenance
than others—and how often you
need to clean can make a
significant day-to-day
difference. Here’s a breakdown
of the most common types of
fixtures on the market.
Chrome. Chrome was made
popular in the 1930’s, and it
remains one of the most popular
choices for bathroom fixtures
today. Modern chrome fixtures
are usually made with a layer of
chrome electroplated onto an
underlayer of brass. The reasons
for its popularity are numerous:
it’s a lovely silvery color,
it’s tarnish-resistant, and it’s
usually an economical choice.
However, chrome must be cleaned
often to keep that beautiful
shiny glow. In addition, it can
show some wear and tear over
time.
Stainless steel.
Stainless steel isn’t as shiny
as chrome, but it’s rugged,
long-lasting, and affordable.
Stainless steel plates won’t
tarnish or corrode, and they’re
made from a solid mix of
chromium and steel alloys—no
plating involved. Many people
love stainless steel because it
goes with a wide variety of
decors. It does have its
drawbacks, however. It can get
scratched, and may rust at the
site of the scratch. It loses
its shine over time as well.
Brass. Brass gives a
beautiful and distinct look.
It’s not an adaptable metal like
stainless steel—brass stands
out, and it won’t go with every
bathroom design. Still, if you
want to make a statement with
your fixtures, brass just might
be the right choice for you.
Brass fixtures are made from a
single metal, with no mixing or
plating. This means that, unlike
electroplated fixtures such as
chrome, the top layer can’t
erode over time. They’re usually
a more expensive choice,
however, and they do tarnish.
Brushed nickel. These
tend to be more expensive, but
they’re also easier to take care
of. Brushed nickel is made of a
layer of nickel electroplated
onto a layer of brass. Unlike
brass, stainless steel, and
chrome, brushed-nickel fixtures
don’t register water spots and
fingerprint smudges as well—so
you won’t have to constantly
wipe them down to maintain that
shiny look. They don’t tarnish,
and rarely show scratches.
However, the nickel plating can
wear down over time.
Bronze. No two bronze
fixtures are alike, as the
forging process gives the metal
irregularities that make them
unique. Bronze fixtures are
often coated with finishes that
are exposed to the
environment—they can rub off
where the fixtures are often
touched, darken where they are
not, and change color when
exposed to some materials. Those
who like bronze love this
“living” aspect of the fixtures.
Copper. Copper fixtures
give a stunning, unique look
that goes well with antique
décor. Copper is naturally
antibacterial; while bacteria
can live for days on stainless
steel and other metals, they can
survive on copper for only a few
hours. Many people prefer copper
for its antibacterial
properties. It will tarnish to a
light green color, which can be
removed with the proper cleaning
products or prevented with the
right coating. Copper tends to
be on the pricier side.
If you’re interested in a new
look for your bathroom but don’t
have the budget for a full-scale
redesign, changing your fixtures
is a great way to change the
look of your bathroom for less.
Update tired stainless steel
fixtures with shiny chrome or
smudge-free brushed nickel. Add
an antique feel with copper, or
a pricier look with brass. For a
bigger change, switch your towel
and shower curtain colors or
change movable furniture such as
shelves and cabinets. This will
make it possible to update your
bathroom’s look without breaking
your budget.
However, it’s also important to
make sure that the fixtures you
choose don’t clash with your
décor. If you prefer clean lines
and a smooth, contemporary look,
choose a silvery, shiny metal
such as stainless steel, nickel,
or chrome. Copper and bronze are
ideal for antique bathrooms, and
can definitely give your
bathroom a one-of-a-kind look.
Take your time shopping for
fixtures, and you’re sure to
find some that fit your décor
and lifestyle.
Raymond Dobson is the director
for http://www.wdbathrooms.co.uk
For more info on a wide range of
bathroom taps visit
http://www.wdbathrooms.co.uk/acatalog/Bathroom_Taps.html
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ray_DobsonIf you are looking for a
bathroom remodeling
contractor in
the Denver area, please call us
today at 303-506-1262 or
complete our
online request form.
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