For many things in life, aging and time can be daunting. However, the opposite is true when it comes to living finishes. Time aids in making a living finish more unique and eye-catching. At ME Custom Handles (MECH), we take pride in offering custom door handles with living finishes. Whether you’ve been considering a custom door handle with a living finish or not, continue reading to learn more about living finishes, what they are, and how to care for them:
A living finish is a non-lacquered and unprotected finish designed to improve with time. As it ages and becomes exposed to natural elements such as; rain, wind, and air, living finishes will change from their original state. Finishes including; stainless steel, brass, oil rubbed bronze, iron, and wood are considered ‘living finishes.’
Living finishes are highly sought after because the wear they get with time becomes unique to each piece, adding character and individuality. The oxidization reaction that occurs during this process is referred to as “patina.” Any living finish that is not protected with a sealant will go through a patination process, resulting in a beautiful custom piece.
FYI: The darker the patina you begin with, the slower you will notice changes over time. Every environment is different, and therefore, the process will look different for most.
We recommend cleaning your living finish door handle with diluted soap and water and a clean cloth. Remember always to remove water spots and NEVER use bleach, vinegar, or abrasive sponges as they can scratch, causing damage to your piece. If you wish to prolong the patina process, you may wax your door handle; however, this process will need to be repeated every 3-6 months to extend the process further.
MECH does not offer a warranty for living finishes as they are designed to age and improve over time. Remember, raw brass, oil rubbed bronze, stainless steel, other non-lacquered finishes, and natural wood are considered living finishes. There is no need to worry though, all of our products are manufactured from the finest quality materials that will age gracefully and beautifully.
At MECH, we offer a variety of finishes to help you achieve the product that will make you say, “This feels like ME”. Let us help you make your vision come to life! Call us for a quote at 1-888-384-2034.