For a designer look in your kitchen or bath, you might consider copper for sinks, tubs, or counter tops. The warm tones of copper would be appropriate for a French Country or Victorian style kitchen, a butler’s pantry sink, or counter tops for a kitchen or bar area.
A copper sink or bathtub is a natural work of art for your home and you should love the look. There are many pre-made designs available in home design stores or online or you can design a custom copper sink. Whatever you choose, it will be helpful to keep the following information in mind.
- Choose Only Solid Copper
While some companies make their products of copper and alloys to offer a less expensive product, they can sometimes rust and the finish is often mottled or irregular. Either new or recycled copper should be at least 99% pure for long life. - Copper is a Healthy Choice
While bacteria lives for days on even the cleanest stainless steel or porcelain, bacteria survives only hours on copper. There's no need to use disinfectants and antibacterial products for cleaning. - Confirm TIG Welding on Seams
For the best looking and strongest weld on seams, they should be TIG welded. - Know the Finish
Some copper counter tops, sinks, and tubs are raw copper. Others are fired with a weathered or warm aged patina finish. Some copper fixtures are embellished with paint or hammered artwork. And others combine an alloy of copper and silver or gold to offer more looks for copper. If you know the type of finish you've chosen, you'll be better prepared to care for it properly.If you don't want the finish to change over time, you should ask for a fixture that has a permanent clear lacquer finish which will stand up to acid or base stains.
Read about caring for copper sinks and counters.