Satin nickel and brushed nickel are both popular finishes for hardware and fixtures in homes and commercial spaces. Both finishes have a similar look and feel, but there are subtle differences between the two. Satin nickel has a softer, more muted appearance while brushed nickel has a slightly more textured and matte finish. It makes them a good choice for high-traffic areas because both finishes are durable and resistant to tarnishing and corrosion. However, the choice between brushed nickel vs satin nickel often comes down to personal preference and the overall aesthetic of the space.
Nickel is no doubt a silvery-white metal that is very hard and resistant to corrosion. Nickel is commonly used as a plating material. There has been an increase in nickel demand since the last century. In addition to magnets, batteries, and coins, the main component is stainless steel.
Satin Nickel vs Brushed Nickel
Satin Nickel
Satin nickel is not really a metal itself, but the nickel plating is applied on zinc or brass. We will actually think of it as a final finish, but in reality, it isn’t. It is applied through a process of electrolysis method in which nickel is applied to the surface you chose. Many showers, faucets, and hardware consider them both same.
Also, to increase its durability, you can apply a low-luster lacquer after the plating. Without the lacquer, it will look dull after the process of plating.
Brushed Nickel
The actually brushed nickel accessories are brushed with a tool such as a wire brush, which will put small abrasions on the metal, in the same direction. It takes off the natural shine of the metal. It also gives a better finish than any other nickel-plating process. It is an overall less expensive process than any other. The finishes can be obtained by using a wire brush or a similar tool. The wire brush will hide the water spots, but as a result, it will lose the shine of metal.
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What should you know about Satin Nickel?
The satin nickel has a very smooth and velvety appearance with no seeing abrasion. The common method of applying a satin finish to a brass metal is with the help of electrolysis. It usually contains a varying degree of satin nickel like dark matte or a semi-matte finish. It is the most common hardware used for residential purposes. Also, as compared to brushed nickel, it is less expensive.
What should you know about Brushed Nickel?
A kind of nickel made with the help of a wire brush or any other tool similar to it, which will give a textured appearance. It will provide a lightly brushed warm metallic look and also a golden or brownish tint that will deliver a good appearance to the work piece. It is basically more expensive than a satin nickel and most common in commercial hardware. But it’s one drawback as it requires extra cleaning to maintain its natural appearance.
Difference Between Satin Nickel Vs Brushed Nickel
The main difference between brushed nickel and satin nickel is the type of plating or finish, which can be achieved. Satin nickel usually uses an electrolysis process while brushed nickel uses an intricate brushing process. The brushed nickel will give you a more lustrous appearance as compared to the normal dull appearance of satin nickel. Also, the manufacturing process of brushed nickel is less expensive than any other process of plating.
- A brushed nickel finish is finally achieved with the help of a wire brush or any other tool which can create a smooth look. The process of electroplating is done by the hydrolysis technique of plating one metal onto another. The satin nickel fixtures are more expensive than the brushed nickel finish.
- A brushed nickel finish is finally achieved with the help of a wire brush or any other tool which can create a smooth look. The process of electroplating is done by the hydrolysis technique of plating one metal onto another. The satin nickel fixtures are more expensive than the brushed nickel finish.
- Brushed nickel has a unique property, it is a very durable finish and can last for many long times. It is easy to clean and will not leave any fingerprint marks. It usually doesn’t shine because of its warm tone, but it really works with most of the other styles and designs.
- In appearance wise, satin nickel is usually dull and doesn’t show fingerprints, water spots any other marks. Regular cleaning is not necessary in the case of satin nickel. It is basically used on zinc or brass faucets as well as electronic locks and door levers.
But brushed nickel can show marks easily because of its matte finish. Regular maintenance and cleaning are required to maintain its natural appearance and to enhance the life of the product. As compared to satin nickel, brushed nickel can be used in bathroom fittings, cabinets of the kitchen, in many parts of the machine, and door pulls.
