When shopping for China cabinet hardware, you will need to decide on the material you will use.
Both brass and chrome have unique styles and elegance.
The choice will narrow down to your taste and preferences, the overall style you want your space to have. This blog post will discuss the pros and cons to give you an overview of both. You will need to consider several things: your design aesthetics, maintenance needs, budget, and expected durability.
Table of contents
Aesthetics
When deciding on the best material for your China Cabinet Hardware, it’s a matter of personal preference and taste. These materials have different unique qualities that can enhance the look of your China cabinets and your house. The aesthetic appeal of each material is something to consider.
Brass has a warm golden touch of elegance to the cabinets. It creates a rustic and traditional look too. On the other hand, chrome has a cool silver tone with a modern and sleek look that can make a statement in any room. Chrome has various finishes, such as brushed, satin, and polished.
If you are a person that prefers warmth, earthy feels brass will do, but if you are a minimalist, chrome will benefit you. Remember, the choice is yours based on your preference.
Maintenance
Maintenance is an important consideration when choosing between brass and chrome for your China Cabinet Hardware. Both materials are relatively easy to keep clean, but there are differences in the amount of effort needed to maintain them.
Chrome is highly resistant to corrosion and requires only minimal wiping with a damp cloth. On the other hand, brass is prone to tarnishing over time and needs regular polishing with a special brass polish. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance option, chrome is the way. However, if you prefer the warm, classic look of brass, you’ll need to be prepared to put in more effort to maintain its shine.
Cost
Different materials have different costs. China cabinet hardware is not an exemption; they can come in various materials at very different prices. Mostly brass is more expensive since they have a higher cost of raw materials. They are more durable and have a classic look, making them more pricey.
Chrome is usually cheaper and easier to work with, and more accessible. The type of finish applied to the material matters a lot. Check the material, check the finish too. When looking for China cabinet hardware, ensure that price is not the only factor you study. Before making a final decision, you should consider other factors, such as maintenance, durability, and aesthetics.
Durability
Brass and chrome are strong metals and good choices when buying China cabinet hardware. However, they have different characteristics you should consider before purchasing. Brass has a higher corrosion resistance compared to chrome. It is also less likely to peel and chip.
However, the type of finish applied to the material can affect how long the hardware lasts. Brass with an untreated lacquer or plated finish is likely to last longer than chrome since chrome tends to erode more easily. It’s important to note that chrome finishes can be applied over brass for additional protection, but this will come at an extra cost. Generally, if you’re looking for hardware that will last a long time, go for brass with an untreated lacquer or plated finish.
Remember, the choice depends on the conditions to which you will expose the hardware. Also, according to your style and preference, if you prefer a more modern look, chrome will do, and if you like a rustic traditional classic look, brass will benefit you.
Conclusion
When selecting the hardware for your China Cabinet, it is important to consider all factors, including aesthetics, maintenance, cost, and durability. Depending on your needs, either brass or chrome hardware may be the better option.
Brass hardware offers a warm look and can be relatively easy to maintain, but it can also be more expensive and prone to tarnishing. Chrome hardware can provide a modern touch to your cabinet and is generally less costly but more susceptible to scratches. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your China Cabinet.