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Refinishing door hardware myself
May 10, 2009
I am interested in refinishing door hardware (handles, knobs, backplates, hinges, etc.) rather than buying news ones when rehabbing houses for resale or rental. Most old hardware has a polished brass finish that has been worn off through years of use. I am not sure what base metal is used in most hardware. However, I am looking to refinish the hardware in a brushed nickel or dark bronze that is currently popular. Hardware for an average house would run $750 to $1,000 to replace. Would it be possible to refinish them myself for less than that amount? If so, what would be the preferred method?
Tim FisherHome remodeler - Cary, North Carolina, USA
May , 2009
Hi, Tim. You can paint them yourself using a Self-Etching Primer [linked by editor to product info at Amazon] followed by a topcoat in your choice of fancy metallic colors. But they won't look as good or last as long as real brushed nickel plating or dark bronze plating, which must be done by a plating shop.
Regards,
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 Ted Mooney, P.E. finishing.com Brick, New Jersey |
October 13, 2011
Read about the Fusion primer. I have 17" stainless steel or brushed nickel handles on a large cast iron soaking bathtub. Remodeling the bath we need to change the finish on the tub handles. Picked oil brushed bronze finish on stock sink/shower hardware. Can I refinish the handles instead of purchasing new for $390.00 (ouch). please recommend how or if I need to go to a plater. Thanks much.
Kenn Liss- Rochester, Illinois, USA
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October 27, 2011 Hi, Kenn. After a self-etching primer (not Fusion®, which I understand is for plastic rather than metal), you can try an oil rubbed bronze spray paint. Regards,
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