Cleaning and Caring for Plumbing Fixtures
Weathered and Living Finishes
The process used to create the distressed appearance on solid brass makes each individually-crafted item unique. Finishes will vary in colour and tone, changing with time. The metal is polished or distressed, oxidized, pumice-rubbed, oiled, brushed or sand-blasted and then left uncoated. Sometimes the metal is subjected to chemicals and heat to achieve different effects.

Often called 'living finishes', these finishes change over time. No two sets are identical. Note, for example, if you are purchasing two faucets for the same room, they will be different in appearance, perhaps just slightly different or very different. Also, colours may vary among individual components of a product. They can become highlighted at wear points to reveal a base metal. (Although usually left to age naturally, some manufacturers' natural finishes are coated after finishing in order to prevent their appearance from changing over time.)

Because these finishes change over time, and the qualities desired are so subjective, natural finishes are not warranted against discoloration or change.
  • Commercial polishes should not be used on natural finishes
  • Some of these finishes may be protected by applying a natural wax product (e.g. pure carnauba wax without cleaning agents)
  • Soil and built-up dirt may be removed by gently rubbing the surface with a soft cloth containing mineral oil
  • To clean use a mild liquid detergent and a soft cloth
  • Apply 'Renaissance Wax' to oil-rubbed bronze to darken the bronze and reduce wear, or to lighten the appearance of the finish
  • Test a small, unseen area before proceeding to treat the entire item
  • Heavy, periodic cleaning can remove the natural aging or change the character of the finish
  • DO NOT use metal polishes, bleach, vinegar, WD-40, solvents or any other chemical or abrasive cleaning agents



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