Matt Bronze - (MB)

What is Matt Bronze?

Bronze is an alloy which is made up primarily of copper but also includes other metallic and non-metallic elements, typically tin and phosphorus for example. Bronze is a non-ferrous metal meaning that unlike others metals such as copper it will not becoming darker and erode over time as it reacts with the oxygen present in the air.

A matt finish simply refers to a material that is dull and non-shiny, because matt finishes absorb light rather than reflecting it. This means that they mask any inconsistencies or other little flaws in the metal making them invisible to the naked eye. Therefore, Matt Bronze is simply a bronze finish that is non-shiny.

What colour is Matt Bronze?

Matt Bronze has a rich and subtle hue that can be described as slightly chocolate-like thanks to its brown appearance. Its matt finish means it is non-shiny and can appear as being very smooth and consistent as it is very difficult to spot any imperfections on a matt finish product. The finish is popular in traditional and contemporary rooms alike as it is both classic and clean and modern.

What colour is Dark Bronze?

Dark bronze is a deep brown colour with a slight redish tint and a smooth, glossy finish. Dark bronze is an applied finish used to give brass items an aged, tarnished look.

How to clean Matt Bronze?

Matt Bronze is a durable material that should last for many years even with minimal cleaning and maintenance. Nonetheless, you can still ensure your Matt Bronze products are looking their best by cleaning them with a soft cloth or brush and some soapy water. It’s important to just dust Matt Bronze products rather than polishing them which risks damaging the metal or potentially scratching your bronze hardware. Remember to dab your hardware with a dry cloth afterwards to remove any moisture.

Should you choose a Bronze or Brass finish?

Both Bronze and Brass are exceptional finishes which can look beautiful in any home but there are a few factors that may influence your decision. Firstly, Bronze finishes are usually a darker, more chocolatey colour than Brass which is typically a more golden, yellow. Secondly, Bronze is harder and more durable than Brass which is worth considering if you have a busy family environment at home and will not dull over time when it reacts with oxygen in the air.

What Are Dark Bronze products made from?

90% of our Dark Bronze items will be made from solid brass, there are some exceptions which are being made from stainless steel, Zinc alloy or Mazac. These products have had a Dark Bronze effect applied to them. Please check individual products to see what base material they are made from.

How is the Dark Bronze finish produced?

A polished dipped or coated in a liquid that causes the brass to false age, turning the brass a dark brown colour. A high quality clear lacquer is then applied to help protect and maintain the finish.

Are all Matt Bronze & Dark Bronze items the same colour and pattern?

No, some bronzes have a darker colour with a slight redish tint. Other Matter bronzes have a deeper bronze with an almost purplish tint to them.

Ironmongery-Finishes-Matt-Bronze Ironmongery-Finishes-Dark-Bronze

Matt Bronze Dark Bronze

Are Dark Bronze products suitable for outside use?

Yes since most of the Dark Bronze items are made from solid brass which is a non-ferrous alloy (it contains no iron) and will not rust when fitted outside. However the lacquer coating will eventually breakdown.

Are all your Dark Bronze products lacquered?

Yes all of our Dark Bronze products (unless otherwise stated) are lacquered.

Can you preserve the lacquer?

Yes regular cleaning to remove dirt, finger prints and watermarks, with a wax based furniture polish such as beeswax, “Mr Sheen” or “Pledge” will help preserve the lacquer finish for as long as possible.

What happens when the lacquer starts to breakdown?

The brass will now start to become exposed to the air and will start to oxidise, eventually the Dark Bronze finish will become even darker.

How to clean and maintain Dark Bronze products

Dark Bronze products are protected by an advanced lacquer and under normal circumstances should give many years of service. These products should be cleaned regularly with a soft cloth and wiped over with a wax based furniture polish ideally a beeswax, but products like “Pledge” and “Mr Sheen” work well too. Regular cleaning with furniture polish will help protect and maintain the lacquer.

Do not use any form of metal cleaner on new Dark Bronze products as this will damage the lacquer.