Do aluminium door handles change color over time?

As an aluminium door handle supplier, I often get asked by customers if aluminium door handles change color over time. It's a valid concern, especially when you're investing in high - quality door hardware for your home or business. So, let's dive into this topic and find out what really happens to aluminium door handles as the years go by.

Understanding Aluminium and Its Properties

First off, aluminium is a popular choice for door handles for several reasons. It's lightweight, which makes it easy to install and use. It's also highly durable and resistant to corrosion compared to many other metals. Aluminium has a natural oxide layer on its surface that acts as a protective shield, preventing it from rusting like iron or steel.

However, this doesn't mean that aluminium is completely immune to changes over time. The environment plays a huge role in how an aluminium door handle ages. Factors like humidity, temperature, and exposure to chemicals can all have an impact on its appearance.

The Role of Oxidation

Oxidation is a natural process that occurs when aluminium reacts with oxygen in the air. When an aluminium door handle is first made, it forms a thin layer of aluminium oxide on its surface. This layer is actually beneficial as it protects the underlying metal from further oxidation. In most cases, this initial oxidation process is quick and results in a stable, protective coating.

But, if the door handle is exposed to a harsh environment, the oxidation process can become more complex. For example, in a coastal area where there's a high salt content in the air, the salt can break down the protective oxide layer. Once the layer is compromised, the aluminium can start to oxidize at a faster rate, which might cause a change in color. The handle could develop a dull, grayish - white appearance, or in extreme cases, it might show signs of pitting.

Impact of Chemicals and Cleaning Products

Another factor that can affect the color of aluminium door handles is the use of chemicals and cleaning products. Some household cleaners contain harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia. These chemicals can react with the aluminium and damage the protective oxide layer. If you use such cleaners on your aluminium door handles, you might notice that the color starts to fade or become uneven.

For instance, if you accidentally spill a cleaning product with a high pH level on the handle and don't rinse it off immediately, it can cause discoloration. So, it's always important to use gentle, aluminium - safe cleaners when cleaning your door handles.

Temperature and Humidity

Temperature and humidity also play a significant role in the aging process of aluminium door handles. High humidity can create a moist environment that promotes oxidation. When the air is humid, there's more water vapor available to react with the aluminium. If the temperature also fluctuates a lot, it can cause the metal to expand and contract, which might lead to cracks in the protective oxide layer.

In a bathroom or a kitchen, where the humidity levels are often high, aluminium door handles are more likely to experience color changes. The constant exposure to steam and moisture can gradually wear down the protective layer and cause the handle to look different over time.

Preventive Measures

Now that we know what can cause aluminium door handles to change color, let's talk about how to prevent it. One of the best ways is to choose a high - quality aluminium door handle in the first place. At our company, we make sure that our door handles are properly treated and coated to enhance their resistance to environmental factors.

Regular cleaning is also crucial. Use a soft cloth and a mild, aluminium - safe cleaner to wipe down the handles. Avoid using abrasive materials that could scratch the surface and expose the metal to further oxidation.

If you live in a harsh environment, you might want to consider applying a protective coating to the door handles. There are special coatings available in the market that can provide an extra layer of protection against oxidation, chemicals, and moisture.

Our Product Range

We offer a wide variety of aluminium door handles to suit different needs and styles. Whether you're looking for Glass Door Knobs for a modern, elegant look, Aluminum Sliding Door Handles for a functional and sleek design, or Interior Door Knobs to complement your interior decor, we've got you covered.

Our products are made from high - quality aluminium and are designed to withstand the test of time. We take pride in the durability and appearance of our door handles, and we're confident that they'll maintain their color and quality for years to come.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while aluminium door handles can change color over time, it's usually due to external factors like harsh environments, chemicals, and improper cleaning. By taking the right preventive measures and choosing high - quality products, you can minimize the chances of color change.

If you're in the market for aluminium door handles and want to learn more about our products, feel free to reach out. We're always happy to answer your questions and help you find the perfect door handles for your project. Whether it's for a residential or commercial property, we can provide you with top - notch aluminium door handles that will not only look great but also last a long time.

References

• "Aluminium: Properties and Applications" - A technical guide on aluminium materials.
• "The Chemistry of Metal Oxidation" - A scientific study on the oxidation process of metals, including aluminium.
• "Best Practices for Cleaning Aluminium Hardware" - A guide on how to clean aluminium products without causing damage.