Durable and Long-lasting: Brass is a strong and resilient metal, ensuring your hardware will withstand years (centuries?) of use. All of the original door handles at our 111-year-old Farmhouse were made of solid brass and still worked great - it's durable stuff!
Brass is durable and resistant to corrosion, making it an attractive option from early on in the door-knob-making process, when knobs were first created by brazing two pieces of metal together and then through casting beginning around 1846.
When brass returned to the forefront of the design world, it was clear that it was not a finish that would go out of style. So, whether you want to update your current hardware or work brass accents into your home, beautiful brass is here to stay.
While brass door handles may offer traditional appeal, their drawbacks—tarnishing, cost and high maintenance—make them less suitable for today's needs.
Provides Insulation
If you have installed door knobs (also read, how to install door knob) on your home front door that are directly exposed to the sunlight, opening it would be a bit of a struggle. Therefore, the insulation foils like that of aluminum can be used to insulate them and keep them cool.
Studies have shown that surfaces made of uncoated copper, brass or bronze, begin neutralizing bacteria immediately, killing more than 99.9% within two hours*. An unlacquered solid brass doorknob actually has a chemical reaction that helps reduce germ build-up.
Nowadays, we still use brass for its characteristic strength, smoothness and long-lasting beauty, but also for a more scientific purpose as well.
Brass can deform or fracture under high loads or repeated cycles of stress, limiting its applications in high-stress or dynamic situations. Brass is also heavier and more expensive than some other metals, which can increase the cost and weight of the final product.
1. Brass: Brass is a popular choice for door handles due to its durability, corrosion resistance, and attractive appearance. It can be polished to a high shine or given different finishes like antique or satin.
The allure of brushed brass
And, in 2024, we're seeing a resurgence as interior designers show just how versatile this metal can be. Offering both vintage appeal with a contemporary edge, an edgy look with a welcoming aesthetic, it's the perfect complement to a warm-toned bathroom.
Polished brass door knobs epitomise timeless elegance. Their warm, golden hue brings a touch of luxury to any door. Brass has been a favoured choice for door knobs for centuries due to its durability and ability to withstand the test of time.
It's called the oligodynamic effect, and it's the result of metal ions in brass and copper having a toxic effect on molds, spores, viruses, and other living cells. Unvarnished brass doorknobs magically disinfect themselves in about eight hours.”
Brass is far more corrosion-resistant than stainless steel. Steel is very vulnerable to corrosion in its unprotected, unalloyed state. Because of that, chromium in stainless steel coatings helps to reduce the corrosion rate. Even with chromium, however, steel can still corrode.
In 18th-century Europe, door hardware became more standardized, with the introduction of cylindrical knobs made of materials like brass, iron, and porcelain. These knobs were often paired with matching backplates and rosettes for added decoration.
Because brass is relatively inexpensive and durable, it is often used in fashion or bridge jewelry. But, there are some downsides to using brass as a metal. For one, it is not hypoallergenic — so consumers with sensitive skin may avoid this alloy altogether as it could cause a rash or reaction.
Disadvantages of Brass
While malleable, brass can be relatively soft compared to some other metals, which may limit its use in certain applications where high strength is required. Brass can discolour over time, especially in environments with high levels of moisture or pollutants.
While brass is generally safe for many, it's not considered hypoallergenic. Brass, a copper and zinc alloy, may cause allergic reactions, especially in people allergic to nickel. If nickel is used in brass manufacturing, it can trigger skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
The active component involved in this revelation is Copper. Copper is the predominant metal used in the mixing of Brass Alloy. This means that copper-based metals such as brass, can prevent bacteria from spreading, and even completely destroy germs and bacteria.
Cheap door knobs are often made from materials like plastic or low-grade metals, which can feel flimsy and wear out quickly.
The way your brass door knobs can be recycled is by being melted down into their individual component elements, which consist of copper, zinc, lead and tin.
Evidence shows that direct contact with the surface as well as cupric and cuprous ions arising from brass surfaces are instrumental in the antimicrobial effectiveness. These copper ions can lead to oxidative stress, membrane alterations, protein malfunctions, and/or DNA damages.
But it does have a distinctive taste. And when you touch brass and then rub your hands together, you'll notice a metallic smell that is caused when the metal interacts with your perspiration.
Stainless steel is a standard material for the most demanding hygienic applications - in the home, in industry, in healtcare.