Copper and Brass Showers: Defying Rust and Embracing Nature's Elements

August 01, 2023

At Proper Copper Design, one of our primary focuses is on creating high-quality showers suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Through years of crafting, testing, and observing our showers in various environments, we've seen first-hand how these materials behave when exposed to harsh natural conditions like freezing temperatures and prolonged heavy rain. We've seen that these materials are remarkably resilient in a range of different situations, and as a result, we firmly believe that copper and brass are the perfect materials for outdoor shower applications.

While both copper and brass boast a range of other advantages (which you can explore in our other blog posts), this article centers on their exceptional ability to resist rust and corrosion when confronted with the elements. 

Why do metals rust? : 

When metals rust, it's because of a natural chemical reaction with oxygen and water. This process is known as corrosion. Some metals, like iron and steel, are more prone to rusting because they contain iron atoms that easily combine with oxygen in the presence of moisture. 

Rust is considered a negative quality for various reasons. Firstly, it weakens the metal over time, leading to structural integrity issues. Rust eats away at the metal, causing it to become brittle and prone to breaking. Secondly, rust is unsightly, and it can stain surfaces, making them look dirty and unkempt. In the context of an outdoor shower, having a material that corrodes and rusts over time would be problematic. It would compromise the shower's durability and safety, potentially leading to leaks, cracks, and breakages. Additionally, the rust could stain the surrounding area and even pose health risks if the rust particles are inhaled or come into contact with the skin.

Why don't copper & brass rust? : 

When exposed to oxygen and moisture in the air, these metals undergo a chemical reaction that forms a layer of tarnish on their surface. This tarnish is a thin coating that changes the colour of the metal and results in a darker appearance over time.

Unlike rust, which primarily affects iron and steel, tarnishing doesn't lead to the same structural weaknesses. Copper and brass remain relatively stable and maintain their overall integrity. This layer of tarnish even brings with it certain beneficial properties, such as further protecting the metal underneath. 

Can tarnished copper and brass be restored to their original shine?

Over time, the build-up of tarnish can significantly alter the appearance of copper and brass. If you find your once-gleaming copper or brass items looking lackluster, it might be time to give them a thorough clean to restore their original shine. The good news is that the process is both quick and, surprisingly, quite satisfying! We've written an article that gives a few tips to walk you through the steps to rejuvenate your copper and brass items, and you can also find numerous online resources to assist you in the process. 

We hope you've enjoyed reading, and If you'd like to explore further the many advantages that copper and brass offer, be sure to check out our other blog posts. From their resistance to rust to their antibacterial properties, these metals have much to offer beyond their exquisite appearances. 

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