Oil Rubbed Bronze Vs Venetian Bronze: What’S The Difference

When it comes to choosing the perfect finish for your home decor, there are a lot of options available. Two popular finishes that often get compared are oil rubbed bronze and Venetian bronze. While they may look similar, there are some key differences between the two.

This article will explain the key differences between oil rubbed bronze and Venetian bronze, so that you can easily understand the best choice for your needs. We’ll discuss their appearance, durability, cost, and more – all the information you need to know in order to make an informed decision.

What is Oil Rubbed Bronze?

Oil rubbed bronze is a finish that’s achieved by applying a patina or an oxidized coating to the surface of bronze. This creates a dark, matte finish that’s often used in traditional and rustic home decor. The oil rubbed bronze finish is popular in bathroom and kitchen fixtures, such as faucets, showerheads, and towel bars.

What is Venetian Bronze?

Venetian bronze is a type of finish that’s achieved by applying a dark, lacquered coating to the surface of bronze. This finish has a warm, coppery appearance that’s often used in contemporary and modern home decor. Venetian bronze is popular in door hardware, such as handles, knobs, and hinges.

Oil Rubbed Bronze Vs Venetian Bronze: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to choosing a finish for the hardware or faucets in your bathroom or kitchen, you may be wondering what is the difference between oil rubbed bronze and Venetian bronze. Both finishes are popular choices that offer a warm and elegant look, but they also have some distinct characteristics that set them apart.

Appearance

One of the main differences between oil rubbed bronze and Venetian bronze is their color. Oil rubbed bronze has a dark, almost black matte appearance that mimics antique bronze. It has copper undertones that complement the deep color and give it a rich and luxurious feel. Oil rubbed bronze will feel slightly oily to the touch, as it is coated with a protective layer of wax and oil.

Venetian bronze, on the other hand, is a lighter color that comes in a powder-coated finish. It has a smooth and matte texture that reflects more light than oil rubbed bronze. Venetian bronze is close to pewter in color, but it also has golden highlights that add some contrast and depth. Venetian bronze is hand-finished, which means that each piece will have slight variations and uniqueness.

Cost

Another difference between oil rubbed bronze and Venetian bronze is their cost. Oil rubbed bronze is typically cheaper than Venetian bronze, as the latter requires more labor and craftsmanship to create the finish. However, both finishes are usually priced within a few cents of each other, depending on the manufacturer and the store. You can expect to pay around $4 to $10 per drawer or door pull, and more than $100 for faucets or fixtures in either finish.

Maintenance

Both oil rubbed bronze and Venetian bronze require some extra care to maintain their appearance and protect their finish. The installation process may strip off some of the protective coating of wax and oil, so you need to apply a light layer of furniture wax (not polish) with a soft cloth and polish it lightly after installation. You should also repeat this process monthly if the hardware or faucet is touched frequently.

To clean oil rubbed bronze or Venetian bronze, you should use a soft cloth dampened with water and mild soap. Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners, as they may damage or scratch the finish. You should also wipe off any water spots or fingerprints regularly to prevent corrosion or discoloration.

Oxidation

One of the interesting features of both oil rubbed bronze and Venetian bronze is that they will oxidize over time. This means that they will change their color slightly as they react with oxygen and moisture in the air. This can create a more authentic and aged look that some people may prefer.

Oil rubbed bronze will tend to lighten up over time, revealing more of the copper undertones. Venetian bronze will also develop more golden highlights over time, enhancing its contrast and depth. The final appearance of both finishes will be close to aged copper, which is very pleasing to the eye.

Which One to Choose for Your Home?

When it comes to choosing between oil rubbed bronze and Venetian bronze, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the style of your home decor. Oil rubbed bronze is often used in traditional and rustic decor, while Venetian bronze is more popular in contemporary and modern decor. Consider the color, texture, and durability of each finish, and choose the one that best complements your home.

Conclusion

Oil rubbed bronze and Venetian bronze are two similar but distinct finishes that can add warmth and elegance to your bathroom or kitchen hardware or faucets. Both finishes have their pros and cons, so you should consider your personal preference, budget, and style when choosing between them.

Oil rubbed bronze is darker, richer, and more traditional, while Venetian bronze is lighter, smoother, and more modern. Both finishes require regular maintenance with furniture wax and gentle cleaners to preserve their beauty and prevent corrosion. Both finishes will also oxidize over time, creating a more antique and authentic look.

We hope this article has helped you understand the difference between oil rubbed bronze and Venetian bronze better. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below. Thank you for reading!

FAQs

Can I mix oil rubbed bronze and Venetian bronze in my home decor?

Yes, you can mix oil rubbed bronze and Venetian bronze in your home decor. While they have different finishes, they both have a warm, earthy tone that can complement each other well. Just be sure to use them in a way that feels intentional and balanced.

Is one finish more expensive than the other?

The cost of oil rubbed bronze and Venetian bronze can vary depending on the quality and brand. However, in general, Venetian bronze tends to be slightly more expensive than oil rubbed bronze.

Which finish is better for a rustic decor?

Oil rubbed bronze is a popular choice for rustic decor because of its dark, matte finish. It can add a sense of warmth and texture to a space. However, Venetian bronze can also work in a rustic decor if used in the right way.

Are there any health risks associated with these finishes?

No, oil rubbed bronze and Venetian bronze are not associated with any health risks. They are both safe to use in home decor.

Can I use either finish in a bathroom or kitchen?

Yes, both oil rubbed bronze and Venetian bronze are suitable for use in a bathroom or kitchen. However, it’s important to properly maintain and clean the finishes to prevent damage from water and moisture.