Copper sinks - the new designer look?
It can be difficult in a world of sameness to stand out. There are an increasing number of businesses around that will sell you much the same thing. After all, there is only so much variation that can be made available.
If you are looking for something special in your bathroom to make it stand out from the rest, consider installing a copper sink.
When it comes to bathroom sinks, you can get different shapes, a multitude of colors and a variety of materials. The majority of sinks are made from glass, fiberglass or ceramic.
The main problem with these sinks is that once you have one, you are stuck with it unless you replace it. They don't change or improve with age and use. In fact the opposite occurs. Wear and tear from everyday use will adversely affect the appearance of the sink until it becomes an eyesore.
One of the main benefits of using a copper sink in the bathroom is that the sink never remains exactly the same. The purpose behind installing one of these kinds of sinks is that you want it to change over time. Copper sinks are basically available in three different styles. Each style results in a different visual effect.
Antique Copper
A sink made in the antique copper style has the characteristic weathered or bronze look. You will often see green spot or marks in this effect. Sinks can be manufactured to have this appearance on delivery, although a copper sink that is left untreated will attain this look over a period of time.
This effect makes the sink look like it has been around for a very long time.
Natural Copper
A sink made to the natural copper style will appear quite reddish-brown. This effect is caused primarily from the heat treatment of the copper in conjunction with instantaneous cooling. Again, untreated this sink will change appearance over time and take on a more antique copper look.
Clear Copper
It might sound strange to have a clear copper but this really refers to a brown colored copper. This effect is achieved by applying an even layer of brown patina to the surface resulting in a smooth, even color.
It is important to remember that these kinds of sinks will tarnish over time and harsh substances such as toothpaste will remove any patina on the sink. If you want to remove these you will have to clean the material away. Often the patina will be removed as well, but the effect will return again over time.
All copper sinks can be treated to ensure that they retain their original appearance. This does not involve expensive treatment materials and involves rubbing the sink with beeswax or a similar material.
If you want to add something special to your bathroom, adding a copper sink will create an ever-changing focal point. You can decide on the degree of aging that occurs on the sink and have an effect that few others can achieve.
