Tarnished Brass Front Door Handle

Brass plated metal and solid brass.

Tarnished brass front door handle.

If the magnet sticks to the handle it is brass plated rather than solid brass. Considerations before cleaning brass copper door knobs and hardware. To determine whether your handles are brass plated or solid brass hold a magnet near the handle. Not all door handles are created equally.

The brass had not been polished for 15 years. If you plan to only replace the door handle itself your old door handle will indicate what kind you need to purchase so bring it with. Constant polishing is frustrating. Remove the hardware from the door so the finish of the door will not be affected.

After the coating is loosened use grade 0000 steel wool to remove the coating and to polish the brass. Screws will be located on the front of the door handle or hidden on the side of the door with the latch. It adds an elegant touch to any home s decor. Don t forget to also remove the latch.

The best way to clean lacquered polished brass is to remove surface dust with a soft cloth and then use a mild solution of soapy warm water to clean sticky or dirty. This durable metal doesn t rust and has acoustic properties making it a good choice for musical instruments. While they are susceptible to tarnishing they can easily be cleaned with a few household products and a bit of elbow grease. It is also a popular choice for cookware and home fixtures.

Here is a before and after picture of my brass door handles. Be sure to refer to the product s manual for more information. Brass handles come in two varieties. How you approach the project depends what kind of brass you have how badly tarnished or degraded it is and whether it is solid or plated.

I refinished door knocker letter slot cover and door lock handle assembly see attached picture. Brass and copper are two traditional door handle and hinge materials that are seeing a resurgence in popularity in modern homes. Once you have removed excess dirt and grime from your hardware you re ready to disinfect it. Cleaning polishing and restoring brass door knobs can add sparkle and a touch of class to a home.

Brass plated metals are composed of zinc cast iron or steel with a coat of brass plate over them. Think before you buy. Pay special attention to the disinfectants ingredients. The brass refinishing process is relatively easy.

Lacquered brass can be damaged easily by rings and keys and these little cuts in the lacquer will allow the air to tarnish the metal underneath over time. On a newspaper covered surface brush the handles and plates with lacquer remover. Brass door handles can become dull and tarnished but you can reverse that process with vinegar or lemon juice. Guide to brass refinishing.

Some contain harsh or abrasive chemicals that will damage the finish of your hardware.