Think copper sinks are cool?
Apparently
a lot of other homeowners think so too. Copper
sinks are all the rage in kitchens and baths as decorators look for
something new, beyond the stainless or porcelain sinks that dominate
today's showrooms.
Why copper? For one, the dark patinas complement the trend toward
oil-rubbed bronze hardware and deeper, richer natural countertop stones
such as
granite.
Many homeowners are drawn to the variable shades of copper that seem
in a day-to-day state of flux. Copper truly has a "living finish" that
evolves over time as the metal oxidizes.
In fact, most copper sinks sold today are dark because the effort and
elbow grease needed to keep copper shiny is more maintenance than many
homeowners want to endure.
The rising popularity of copper to similar to where stainless was 10
to 12 years ago as steel began a climb up the popularity charts.
We’re seeing a lot more darker finishes like copper on the market
as people have warmed to the rich Tuscan look that spills over into
Mediterranean and Southwest influences as well.
Copper is usually hammered, bent or pounded into shape by hand. The
surface is rarely smooth, but that can be a plus. Unlike many sinks of
other materials where a scratch or dent sticks out like sore thumb, minor
flaws or scrapes in copper quickly oxidize and blend in with the surrounding
metal.
But
copper has other innate qualities beyond beauty. The acids in copper
make its surface naturally antibacterial. Harmful bacteria such as e-coli
can't survive more than a few hours on untreated copper. The healthful
advantage is lost, however, if homeowners unnecessarily seal the surface
with lacquer or other commercial sealants.
