The importance of managing homeowners' expectations of finish and maintenance.
When assisting in the selection process for faucets, door hardware and cabinet hardware, it’s imperative to consider both the finishes’ effect on the style of the space and the lifestyle of the homeowner. Some consumers expect their finishes to look exactly the same years after installation, while others prefer the old world look that living finishes can bring to a space. It is important to decipher which kind of homeowner you are working with prior to recommending the finishes that best fit their space.
Homeowners benefit significantly from having a basic understanding of the differing finish processes used for specific fixtures, and will then be able to determine if that will be a good fit for their lifestyle. This will also ensure that there has been ample communication on the care and maintenance required.
There are three main finishing processes: PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition), powder coating, and living finishes.
PVD finishes are the most durable, and require the least upkeep. This process forms a molecular bond to the fixture, which gives a hardened and highly durable finish. Products with a PVD finish will not corrode, discolor, or tarnish. PVD uses a variety of vacuum deposition methods. The fixtures go from a condensed phase, to a vapor phase, then finish with a thin film-condensing phase. This final film coating is then bonded to the solid brass or bronze body. It is still recommended that these fixtures be dried with a soft cloth after use to avoid water spotting.
The biggest enemy of all finishes is caustic cleaners. With the majority of homeowners using cleaning services, it is every showroom consultant's responsibility to impress upon their customers to NEVER use cleaners containing ammonia or bleach! Mild soap and water on a soft cloth is the preferred cleaning method for all PVD and powder coated finishes.
The powder coated process does not produce the same durability as a PVD finish. If treated properly though, they can maintain the same finish from the day they were installed. Today, the “Modern Farmhouse” trend has exploded in our market in the Southeast. Because of that, the flat black finish (a finish achieved by powder coating) has become a very popular option for every segment across faucets, lighting and door hardware.
Powder coated finishes are protected by a clear powder coating that shows the underlying finish. Powder coated finishes are susceptible to scratches and damage from harsh chemicals such as bleach and ammonia that can erode the top protective layer.
The most elusive of the finishing processes is the living finish. Depending on the core material - whether it be brass or bronze - will dictate how the finishes “patina." Generally, darker bronze finishes will lighten where fixtures are handled the most. Polished unlacquered finishes will cloud and darken across the entire fixture. Our market has seen a huge rise in polished unlacquered brass.
Thanks to their access of Pinterest and Houzz, homeowners can often have a misconception of how living finishes will age. It is our responsibility to inform them of the characteristics of living finishes. Water can also have an extreme effect on a living finish. Fixtures in a shower will age completely differently than the faucets and bath accessories in the same master bath. To protect and restore the original traits of these finishes, occasionally polish them with a polishing paste and then wipe with a soft cloth. To further protect the finish, apply a faucet wax.
Choosing the right finish can define a space, but in making that selection, it must also suit the homeowner’s lifestyle.
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