Brass is a fickle metal, often referred to as having a "living" finish. Why "living?" Because it changes over time, developing markings, dull areas, streaks. Some architects, designers, and users of buildings find this ever-changing finish attractive, but many don’t as we crave the highly-polished look of new brass.
Architects and interior designers also spec brass for doors, handles, and knobs because it is a natural germ killer. Studies have found the copper component in brass alloy exhibits natural antimicrobial properties which can inhibit the growth of – and even destroy – harmful microorganisms. While germ and bacteria fighting are excellent reasons to spec brass, it still doesn’t thwart the inevitable tarnishing of the metal.
High-moisture environments are harsh on exterior-facing brass. In as little as two months, water will leach the zinc component of brass alloy, swiftly dulling the desired polished look and exhibiting the ever-changing "living" finish.
Even worse are regions of the country that employ salt to melt snow, which is particularly rough on the exterior-facing brass of doors. The effect of salt on beautiful brass features is unforgiving, quickly oxidizing the metal, turning into a garish blue-green.
What’s the solution? There are options.
Polish, Polish, Polish
One is to polish exterior-facing doors featuring real brass often… actually, constantly. If brass is used in rainy environments, near-daily polishing is the only way to maintain that mirror-like finish. This is a labor-intensive option that many people find onerous.
Lacquer
If using real brass is the only option, a high-quality lacquer will help preserve the look of brass. Eventually lacquer will wear off, especially in high-touch areas, resulting in tarnishing. But application of lacquer will protect brass and keep it brighter, longer.
Brass-Colored Paint
There are authentic looking paints that provide the rich look of brass when applied to durable metals such as aluminum. Like all paints, brass paint will chip. But like all paints, touch ups are a simple and efficient process. And when done professionally, brass paint can provide a look comparable to real brass without the inevitable tarnishing.
Powder Coating
Application of durable powder coat polymers delivers a reliable "brass-like" finish on non-brass metals. Both durable and realistic looking, powder coating is an excellent alternative to using actual brass.
Kynar®
The Kynar coating is a highly durable option for delivering the desired look of brass on non-brass metals. This high-end option delivers a durable finish that will look brass-like for an extended period of time. However, while you gain durability, color-matching brass-like finishes becomes more challenging.
The look of brass is luxurious and highly desirable. The maintenance required to retain that beautiful high-gloss finish is less attractive. If you want a beautiful brass look, especially on exterior surfaces, consider non-brass substitutes. While sacrificing the antimicrobial properties of natural brass, the alternatives will look great longer, and require significantly less time and effort to maintain.
