Free UK Delivery / USA & Worldwide Shipping Available / Made in England
In this new series of blog posts, we're going to be delving deeper into our collection of handles, showers, and taps. Our aim is to provide an interesting look into our range of products, offering insight into the different styles we offer, and how we create these from within our Brighton-based workshop.
Our first blog post puts the spotlight on our Antique Copper Hardware collection. We've included a video that showcases the fascinating copper aging process of the handles. We've also given our thoughts on the type of environment that we think this hardware fits perfectly into.
All Antique Copper hardware goes through a range of different steps in order to achieve their weathered, aged appearance. First, they are stripped down to reveal their raw surface, which is then thoroughly cleaned to ensure a clean foundation. Following this, the copper undergoes a controlled oxidization process, carefully monitored until the desired appearance of aged copper is achieved.
Once the ideal state is reached, the copper undergoes a delicate sanding stage. This step not only enhances the overall aged and weathered aesthetic but also adds a unique tactile dimension to the item. Finally, before completion, a number of coats of marine-grad lacquer are applied, which ensures the longevity of the Antique Copper Finish.
The Antique Copper finish stands out as an ideal choice for a range of different settings, with these spaning from striking industrial conversions to the timeless charm of traditional country homes. This finish offers a classic elegance with an industrial edge, making it a versatile option for a wide spectrum of interior design themes.
At the heart of our commitment to quality and customization is the fact that every single handle is hand-finished to order. This allows us to not only meet but exceed your expectations by adjusting the tonal nuances of the finish to align perfectly with your envisioned aesthetic.
Whether you're seeking to infuse a touch of rugged sophistication into a modern industrial space or aiming to amplify the rustic allure of a traditional country home, we believe the Antique Copper finish is perfect for making a statement that is both visually captivating and uniquely personalised.
The decision between wall-fed and ground-fed installation is not only about visual preference but also functionality. Depending on your specific situation, one of these two options will likely align perfectly with your needs.
If you are replacing an existing shower or already have plumbing in place, then either the wall-fed or ground-fed option can be suitable for your preferences.
Our standard option is designed for water inlets coming from the wall. This setup allows for easy mounting of the shower directly without the need for any additional piping below the main body. It offers a straightforward and hassle-free installation process for those who have wall-based plumbing already in place.
Above: Example of showers specified for Standard Wall-fed Installation.
On the other hand, our Ground-Fed option is specifically tailored for water inlets coming from the ground. We provide all the necessary additional pipes and fixtures required for this installation method. This option is perfect for those who want a more modern and contemporary look with water inlets seamlessly integrated into the floor.
Above: Example of showers specified for Ground-fed Installation.
If you're looking for a new shower and would like to be able to choose from these options, we've now updated our website so that all applicable showers now feature these installation options. Feel free to explore our updated selection and discover the perfect shower for your needs. We hope you've enjoyed reading!
With the United States being one of our top export destinations, we frequently receive inquiries at Proper Copper regarding the compatibility of our UK showers with US plumbing systems. In response to this, we ensure that all of our showers that are being shipped to the US or Canada are equipped with the necessary components to ensure a seamless conversion to meet the required plumbing standards.
If you'd like to delve deeper into the differences between UK and US plumbing, the additional components required, and how these components are fitted, we invite you to read the following information below...
In the UK, showers typically use BSP (British Standard Pipe) fittings. These plumbing fittings are used across the UK, Asia, Australia, New Zealand and many other countries. In contrast, the US and Canada use NPT (National Pipe Thread) fittings.
The main difference between NPT and BSP fittings lies in their design and threading. NPT fittings have tapered threads, meaning they get narrower towards the end. On the other hand, BSP fittings have parallel threads that maintain the same diameter throughout. When working with plumbing systems, it's important to ensure that the fittings you choose match the thread type of your pipes to ensure a proper and secure connection.
Fortunately, adapting these fittings is a straightforward process. We provide all the required fittings (depending on the shower type) to convert these threads, ensuring proper functionality of the plumbing system.
We supply all of our showers that are shipped to the US or Canada with the relevant 'BSP to NPT' fittings that allow for UK plumbing components to be adapted for use where necessary.
For a step by step guide, please click here to view our PDF instruction guide. Alternatively, click here to see our video on how to fit the BSP to NPT adaptors.
In conclusion, adapting a UK shower for use in the US requires the installation of a suitable plumbing adapter to facilitate the smooth compatibility and interaction between US and UK components.
Whilst the installation process is straight forward, it is advisable to consider seeking professional assistance from a plumber, particularly if you lack experience in plumbing or desire a seamless transition.
Alternatively, if you have any additional questions or need further guidance before or during the installation process, please feel free to get in touch.
team@propercopperdesign.com
Renovating our new showroom in Poets Corner in The Hayloft space was an exciting opportunity for our team to work together on our carpentry and coppersmith skills to display our newest range of Copper and Brass taps, showers and handles for local home owners interior designers and architects.
The building was formally a mechanics and historically thought to be a horse stables for the casket makers in the building adjacent where we have created our Copper Workshop and hub for Proper Copper Design .
The existing staircase was nothing more than a wooden ladder which made access to our new space upstairs difficult to climb. Restoring the staircase became a top priority to make an inviting entrance and feature element to The Hayloft.
