Metals can be regarded as elements that form positive ions readily and are characterized by their high electrical and thermal conductivity and opacity. Metals and their alloys are of two groups. These can be categorized as ferrous metals and non-ferrous metals. Find out about the metals used most in the interiors of buildings for interior design metal finishes. You can design a vintage kitchen using all these metals.
Ferrous Metals
Ferrous metals have pig iron or iron in their simple form. The ones that are used for interior design metal finishes include iron, such as:
- Wrought Iron – Wrought iron is manufactured by melting pig iron in a furnace along with iron oxide. This is very hard and strong and can easily be stretched and molded without splitting or cracking. You can shape wrought iron in a hot or cold-formed. Its corrosion resistance is better as compared to mild steel. However, if left exposed, it can get corrupted.
- Cast Iron – Cast iron is manufactured by melting pig iron with silicon, carbon, and steel scrap. It is possible to get many types of cast iron, although there is a variation in their grade of hardness and strength. It is partially corrosion-resistant and is appropriate for machining and casting.
You can find cast iron used for interior design metal finishes around the house, in outdoor furniture, and baths.
Non-Ferrous Metals
Various non-ferrous metals are used for interior design metal finishes. These include:
- Copper – When unpolished, this non-ferrous metal is available in salmon red or pink color. This metal is soft reasonably and is ductile as well as malleable. When allowed to oxidize, it becomes patina or soft green. Designers love both colors for their rustic or bright finish.
- Brass – Like most metals out there, brass is available in different grades, including cartridge brass and gilding brass.The classification of this non-ferrous metal is done as per the amount of zinc that it contains. Brass is rust-resistant and is used for effect on trim such as screws and light fittings. It is used on doors and cabinetry as hardware.
- Bronze – This is the alloy obtained upon combining copper with tin. When in a molten form, it is a liquid. This is among the reasons why it is implemented in castings. It can be used on artwork, such as busts, for intricate designs and detailed work.
- Aluminum – Aluminum falls under the category of one of the most used metals for interior design metal finishes today. You can find it used for framing and furniture, door and window joinery, roof cladding, etc. Dull grey and semi-soft in form, it can be polished very well.Aluminum is available in the form of a sheet. It can easily be used as a decorative cladding on items like tabletops, chair seats, etc. It is perfect for embossing and perforations.
- Lead – When it comes to interior design metal finishes, the use of lead must be mentioned. The metal oxidizes upon being exposed to air, and oxide is formed as a coating. Due to the high-density factor of lea, it is used often as a weight to curtain or drape base. It is also used as a filling weight to the base of lamps, candelabra, tables, etc.
Final Words
So, these were the types of interior design metal finishes you need to know about. As now you have known the type of metal finishes, you can get started designing your cabinet hardware the way you want.
