If you’re looking for new cabinet hardware but don’t know where
to begin, you’re not alone. Cabinet hardware is available in infinite
designs and countless finishes, making the prospect of finding the right
style both exciting and overwhelming. Understanding the advantages and
drawbacks of each cabinet hardware material can make it easier to narrow
down your options so that you can find what you’re looking for a bit
more quickly.
Here are some things to consider when choosing cabinet hardware:
-Brass
is a material that is available in a wide range of finishes, which
makes it a popular choice for homes of most designs. As its name
suggests, polished brass offers a high gloss golden finish that is
suitable for a rustic-themed room. Polished brass can also be found in
conjunction with polished chrome or other silver-toned metals which
provides a more contemporary look. In contrast, antique brass offers a
matted gold-brown hue reminiscent of times gone by. Antique brass is
often textured in some way, which provides for an additional style
element.
-Bronze is a metal that offers unique advantages because many
forms of bronze have a ‘living finish’ which matures over time. Oil
rubbed bronze hardware is among the most popular finishes in recent
years because it provides a classic look that is simultaneously
luxurious and sophisticated. More expensive oil rubbed bronze hardware
may slowly change color or scratch over time, to give each piece its own
unique look.
-Chrome is a silver finish that is often applied on top of
another metal to create a cool silver finish. Polished chrome provides a
shinier finish than brushed chrome, though the finish can range from
extremely high-gloss to moderately shiny. Chrome hardware does not
tarnish or chip and is designed to provide years of stylish usage.
-As the metal often connected with the bottom of kitchen pots and cookware, copper
is famous for its reddish hue. Antique copper, which has a dull, matted
look, is one of the most popular copper finishes, though some copper
hardware can be found with a brighter color.
-A popular metal for home design products because it is easy to work with and has a timeless design, iron
is an obvious choice for the production of cabinet hardware.
Additionally, iron makes for extremely affordable decorative hardware
because it is so easy to mold and to produce. Homeowners can match iron
cabinet hardware to wrought iron furniture and light fixtures for an
upscale look.
-Nickel cabinet hardware is quite similar to
chrome hardware in that it is a thin metallic finish that is applied
over hardware made from another metal. Nickel hardware has a slightly
warmer hue than chrome hardware, but is available in similar brushed and
polished finishes. Consumers should beware that satin nickel cabinet
hardware which is the most popular form of matte nickel hardware may
dull over time.
-Pewter hardware is a trendy finish because it is soft enough
to create intricate hardware designs and sturdy enough to withstand the
test of time. Pewter hardware is available in a variety of finishes
from verdigris to chocolate and nearly every color in between. In its
most common form, pewter hardware has a dull grey finish which can blend
seamlessly into most spaces. Pewter hardware costs slightly more than
nickel and iron, but is designed to last forever.
-Plastic cabinet hardware is among the most affordable
materials on the market today. Plastic hardware is available in a
variety of colors, shapes and styles and is ideal for homeowners looking
to match a specific color scheme without choosing a generic metallic
finish.
-A common choice for cutlery, faucets and sinks, stainless steel
is also a wonderful choice for cabinet hardware. Stainless steel
provides a contemporary style and will complement any modern space.
Although it is moderately expensive, many owners of stainless steel
cabinet hardware agree that it is worth the price because it will match
other kitchen fixtures perfectly.
-Wood is perhaps the most natural material for cabinet
hardware, and it can be painted to match nearly any color scheme. Wood
cabinet hardware may require a metal insert in order to ensure that it
is installed securely. An ideal option for those seeking a country look,
wood can be found with metallic accents or as a decorative piece all on
its own.