Why Are Door Knobs & Handles Often Made Of Brass?

Whether your home is modern or traditional in style, there's a strong chance that your internal doors will be adorned with lustrous brass door knobs or handles. For centuries, door hardware has been crafted from this sturdy yet stunning metal alloy, but it wasn't merely chosen for its attractive visual appeal.

In fact, the use of brass in wardrobe handle situations transcends any trend and defies any style. It's a time-honoured and historically significant material, regarded highly to this day by door hardware specialists, architectural ironmongers and interior designers.

So, why are knobs and handles often made of brass?

Doorknobs were originally made from ceramics, porcelain and china - with this type of door furniture peaking in popularity between 1850 and 1900. However, towards the end of the 1800s, brass became the most popular material for door knobs thanks to its durability as well as its rust resistant properties and added aesthetic appeal. Nowadays, we still use brass for its characteristic strength, smoothness and long-lasting beauty, but also for a more scientific purpose as well.

Due to its copper and zinc composition, brass has been shown to have an antimicrobial effect; killing harmful bacteria and helping to reduce the spread of surface transmission from person to person. With around 80% of infectious illnesses spread by touch, opting for brass door knobs and handles can manage and reduce bacterial contamination with incredible efficacy, while also giving you all the interior appeal and day-to-day ruggedness you require from a practical piece of door hardware.

In terms of visual beauty, brass has a timeless appeal, with a stunning, sleek and stylish look that suits the most contemporary settings or carefully restored period properties. Once installed, you'll enjoy a dazzling finish that will hardly ever show signs of wear and won't corrode nearly as easily as inferior door hardware materials.

SOLID BRASS KNOB

Designed to be fitted onto any internal door, this stunning solid brass knob comes with a stunning, smooth and classic design that will perfectly compliment many different home interiors.

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LUXURIOUSLY DESIGNED LONG HANDLE

A long handle crafted from premium brass exudes elegance and sophistication, making it the perfect choice for adding a luxurious touch to any door. Its sleek design combines functionality with timeless style, ensuring durability while elevating your interior aesthetics.

1. Durability and Longevity

Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, which gives it exceptional strength and resilience. It can withstand daily wear and tear, making it ideal for frequently used items like door knobs and handles. Unlike other materials that might crack, warp, or degrade over time, brass maintains its structural integrity for decades.

Additionally, brass is resistant to rust and corrosion, even in humid or coastal environments. This quality ensures that brass handles remain functional and attractive in various climates.

2. Antimicrobial Properties

One of brass's most remarkable features is its natural antimicrobial properties. The copper content in brass has been scientifically proven to kill bacteria and viruses on contact. Studies have shown that harmful microorganisms cannot survive on brass surfaces for long periods.

This makes brass door knobs and handles particularly suitable for environments where hygiene is critical, such as hospitals, schools, and homes.

3. Aesthetic Versatility

Brass offers a timeless and versatile aesthetic that complements a wide range of interior styles. Whether polished for a shiny, modern finish or aged for a vintage, antique look, brass door knobs and handles can enhance the visual appeal of any space.

Brass can also be coated with finishes like nickel, chrome, or oil-rubbed bronze, providing additional color options while retaining the benefits of the core material.

4. Easy Maintenance

Brass is relatively low-maintenance compared to other materials. A simple routine of cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soap can keep brass door knobs and handles looking their best. For those who prefer the patina that develops over time, brass can age gracefully without requiring regular polishing.

5. Customization and Craftsmanship

Because brass is malleable yet durable, it is a favorite material for intricate designs and customization. Manufacturers can easily mold it into ornate shapes, engrave patterns, or produce sleek, minimalist designs. This versatility ensures that brass door hardware can cater to both traditional and modern tastes.

6. Safety and Security

Brass is a strong material, making it suitable for high-security locks and handles. Its durability ensures that it can resist tampering and force, adding an extra layer of safety to your doors.

7. Environmentally Friendly

Brass is a sustainable material as it can be easily recycled without losing its quality. Choosing brass door knobs and handles is an environmentally responsible decision, as it reduces the demand for new raw materials and minimizes waste.

Conclusion

Brass door knobs and handles are more than just functional—they are a blend of durability, hygiene, style, and sustainability. Their ability to resist wear, combat germs, and adapt to various design aesthetics makes them a superior choice for homes, offices, and commercial spaces alike.

Whether you prioritize safety, style, or practicality, brass is a material that delivers on all fronts, making it the perfect choice for door hardware.