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Brushed metal is created by sanding or abrading metal to create a less reflective, decorative finish. Different textures are achieved using different grits of sandpaper or abrasive cloths. Common metals used include nickel, aluminum, and stainless steel. Brushed finishes are often considered more elegant and are commonly used in building fixtures, appliances, and decorative items. They may require special care to avoid further sanding the finish.
Brushed metal is metal that has been sanded or abraded to create a decorative finish. A number of metals can be brushed to create this distinctive finish. Upon close inspection, fine lines are evident on the metal surface. This finish is less reflective than standard metallic finishes and is commonly used in home fixtures and decorative accents.
In most cases, brushed metal is created by rubbing sandpaper across the surface of the metal. Different grits of sandpaper are used to create different textures and looks. Fine-grain paper creates finer lines, while coarse-grain paper produces more distinct marks. Abrasions usually move in only one direction and may or may not travel the entire length of the precast sheet metal, depending on the desired appearance.
Other brushed finishes are obtained by rubbing the metal surface with linen or muslin cloths coated with abrasive paste. In this method, the resulting abrasions are less uniform and do not run in one direction. This is sometimes called blending or satin blending. Brushing is usually done only on the visible face and can be done by hand or with an automated machine.
Common metal sheets used in this technique are nickel, aluminum, and stainless steel, although other metals are sometimes used. Items with matte brushed metal finishes are often considered more elegant than their shiny, non-brushed counterparts. As a result, brushed items may be priced slightly higher.
Building fixtures commonly incorporate brushed metal finishes. Faucets, shower heads, towel bars and other bathroom accessories are often offered in a brushed finish, as are light fixtures, doorknobs and drawer handles. Large appliances, such as refrigerators and dishwashers, often have brushed metal faceplates. Other decorative items such as mirrors, picture frames and table lamps can also have a brushed finish. Apparel items such as buttons, buckles, jewelery and hair accessories are also available in this distinctive finish.
Brushed metal is also commonly used in merchandise displays. The high-end aspect is believed to imply that the marketed product is also high-end. Also, the brushed surface is less likely to show the minor scuffs, scratches and small dings that inevitably occur when an appliance has been on a retail floor for any length of time.
Brushed surfaces may require special care. Some textures allow for minor repairs with a simple piece of sandpaper. Most should be cleaned with non-abrasive cleaners to avoid further sanding the finish.
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