The Ultimate Guide to Chrome Finish Fixtures for Your ...

The Ultimate Guide to Chrome Finish Fixtures for Your Kitchen and Bathroom

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Intro to Chrome Finish Faucets and Fixtures

Choosing a finish for the faucets and fixtures in your home can be a little tricky. With home design rapidly changing, it can be difficult to decide between a finish that will look best now based on current design trends, and a finish that will look best long term. If only there were a finish that could do both! Faucets and fixtures are an investment for your home and you should want them to look stylish for life. It's not easy (or inexpensive!) to change the faucets and fixtures so make sure to choose your finish color wisely. You want to make sure your plumbing fixtures will not only look great now, but will also be able outlast current home design fads and not become outdated. The Chrome finish is not only stylish and state-of-the-art, but perfectly suited for a modern, traditional, or classic contemporary kitchen and bathroom home design! Our guide will cover the history of Chrome, answer many FAQs about Chrome, and show you lots of beautiful examples of Chrome finish fixtures and the stunning effect they can have on the rooms in your home. Use our all inclusive guide to help you make the best finish choice for your kitchen and bathroom!

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions about Chrome Finished Fixtures

What is the lifespan of a Chrome fixture?

With proper care and maintenance, the average Chrome plated fixture will last for generations. To expand the life of your Chrome fixtures, daily cleaning with water and a soft cloth, and monthly cleaning with white vinegar and Chrome polish is recommended. Delta Faucet's Chrome fixtures include a Lifetime Warranty that covers both the function and the finish of the fixture for a lifetime!

What is the difference between Stainless Steel, Brushed Nickel, and Chrome?

The three most popular silver style finishes are Stainless Steel, Brushed Nickel, and Chrome. Stainless Steel typically has a muted silver look with a matte yellow undertone. The finish known as Brushed Nickel is sometimes interchangeable with the name Stainless Steel as they both have the same matte and brushed silver appearance. Chrome is a highly polished and intensely shiny silver finish, and is the most versatile of the the three.

What is Chrome plating?

Chrome plating is a process by which a thin layer of melted Chromium is electroplated onto a metal object.

Will vinegar damage Chrome fixtures?

As a natural cleaner, vinegar is one of the most recommended substances for care and cleaning of Chrome finished faucets and fixtures. Vinegar is tough enough to combat even the most difficult mineral deposits and food stains, as well as gentle enough to protect the Chrome finishing. It is recommended to dilute vinegar with water 1-1 for every day cleaning, but undiluted vinegar may be used for tougher deposits and water spots.

What is the best way to remove water spots from Chrome fixtures?

Chrome's highly polished shine is naturally very easy to keep clean. Water spots may be removed with a simple 1-1 water and vinegar solution and a soft cloth. For harder mineral deposits, a soft bristled tooth brush may be used in conjunction with the vinegar solution. Wiping the Chrome fixture with a soft cloth after each use will also prevent water spotting.

Are Chrome faucets out of style?

Not at all! Chrome is one of the most classic finishes for faucets and other home fixtures. It is extremely versatile, and is suitable for both a modern and contemporary home design. Choosing Chrome for your Bathroom Faucets or Kitchen Faucet is one of the best ways to ensure a neutral and long lasting design that pairs easily with each home renovation.

Is Chrome or Stainless Steel better for a Kitchen Faucet?

Choosing the finish for your kitchen faucet should depend on the design of your kitchen. Stainless Steel and Chrome are two of the most durable finishes for high traffic faucets in the kitchen. For a more versatile and classic design, Chrome is recommended. Chrome is suitable for both a modern or traditional kitchen / bathroom design, including the popular farmhouse style. Stainless Steel is a smart choice for a contemporary kitchen design. Delta's Stainless Steel finish blends well with traditional Stainless Steel kitchen appliances.

What is the best way to clean Chrome fixtures?

Due to Chrome's ultra shiny appearance, this finish is typically very easy to keep clean. It is recommended to wipe your Chrome fixture with a soft cloth after each use for daily cleaning and water spot prevention. Natural cleaners such as vinegar and fresh lemon are also recommended for water spot and mineral deposit removal. Commercial Chrome polish is recommended for use monthly to keep your Chrome fixture looking shiny and brand new. Be sure to follow all manufacturer directions when using Chrome polish in order to protect the quality of the finish.

History of Chrome Finish

Chrome finished fixtures, accessories, and other hardware pieces have been incredibly popular for many generations! Traditional Chrome is highly durable, making it well suited for fixtures in outdoor spaces such as car parts and exterior home finishings. Nothing is more stylish and eye catching than a vintage automobile with a shining Chrome bumper, hub caps, and light casings! Because of Chrome's highly polished and reflective appearance, Chrome is ideal for these high-use fixtures that are exposed to many different natural elements as the mirror-like finish is super easy to keep clean and spot resistant. Traditional home designs of the 's and 50's showcase the high point for the use of Chrome in the home. These classic and contemporary home designs highlight the bright and polished luxury feel of Chrome, while keeping with Chrome's high durability.

There are many different processes in creating Chrome finishings, but the most popular is traditional electroplating of liquid chromium. During this process, metal fixtures, such as brass based faucets, are dipped into a vat of melted down chromium. There is then an electric current pulsed throughout which hardens the chromium onto the surface of the metal fixture. This type of Chrome plating is most typically used for automobile parts, metal home faucets and fixtures, and other fixtures that are in contact with natural elements. For less expensive fixtures such as plastic faucets, children's toys, and other home fixtures manufacturers often use a less invasive procedure which involves vacuum metalization of an imitation chromium, followed by a clear coat protective overlay. The clear overlay protects the Chrome from potential damaged caused by normal use, such as hard water damage with faucets and shower fixtures. When properly cared for, this type of Chrome finishing is just as stunning and long lasting as traditional Chrome plating.

Chrome Finish Faucet and Fixture Designs We Love!

Delta Chrome Finish Tub and Shower Combination Faucet and Single Hole Lavatory Bathroom Sink Faucet

Chrome has long been one of the most popular choices for finishes of faucets and fixtures in the bathroom. A gorgeously designed contemporary master bathroom with navy blue walls highlights the ultra shine and classic style of these beautiful Chrome fixtures. The image above features fixtures from the stylish Delta Tesla Collection in Chrome finish. The Delta Tesla Chrome Single Hole One Handle Faucet has a uniquely modern design with its single handle, while the Chrome finish keeps this space feeling fresh and inviting. A Delta Chrome Tesla Tub and Shower Combination Faucet is the perfect center piece for this stunningly tiled shower stall. The highly polished Chrome finish Shower Fixtures sparkles against the white tile and glass sliding shower door. Including Chrome finished bathroom accessories and light fixtures add slight modern accents throughout this beautifully contemporary master bathroom!

Delta Chrome Finish Shower Only Faucet With Gray Tile and Modern Faucet

When most people think of Chrome home finishings, they imaging a more traditional and classic vintage home design. The Delta Ara Collection and the related Arzo Collection in Chrome are proving this outdated thinking wrong! With modern square edges and clean lines, these gorgeous Chrome faucets and fixtures stand out as the perfect eye catching center piece in this stylish and state-of-the-art master bathroom. The Delta Chrome Ara One Handle Faucet's sharp 90-degree angle seamlessly bends over the edge of the white porcelain sink, while the single handle allows for ample counter space. The large Chrome showerhead Shower Only Faucet not only acts as a uniquely rectangular shower chandelier, but the overhead mount offers a relaxing rain shower experience. The Chrome finishing is a perfect choice to complement the stunningly unique gray scale tile of both the shower stall and the back splash wall, while not taking over the space. Chrome really is one of the most versatile finishes!

Delta Chrome Pivotal Single Hole Lavatory Faucet With Hexagonal Tile Backsplash and Above Counter Sink

Here we highlight another extraordinary modern Chrome bathroom design! The Delta Pivotal Collection Single Handle Bathroom Faucet has one of the most modern and cutting edge designs on the market. A beautiful porcelain counter top sink deserves an equally appealing faucet. Delta's Chrome finish shines as the sharp lines of this Pivotal Single Handle bathroom faucet spout extends over the sink to provide a waterfall effect. Chrome is the perfect finish choice to add unique innovation to an upscale contemporary master bathroom design. The highly polished and mirror like finish complements the shine of the hexagonal back splash tile, while nevertheless remaining the center piece of the space. In this instance, Chrome is the ideal modern finish that this bathroom design needs!

Modern Farmhouse Chrome Master Bathroom

Photo by BiglarKinyan Design Planning Inc.

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Chrome finished faucets and fixtures are the perfect choice for a contemporary bathroom with modern touches! In this particular master bathroom, the accent of Chrome cabinet hardware against the rustic wooden vanity adds a classic touch to the space, while complementing the other Chrome pieces throughout the design. A stunning Modern Chrome widespread lavatory faucet with an extremely high arc is a unique choice for the counter-top mounted sink as creates a dramatic effect while keeping with the widespread style of classic bathrooms. The addition of a large round mirror complements the farmhouse style, while the Chrome frame shines against the stark white wall. Continuing with Chrome faucets and fixtures in the beautifully tiled shower stall by adding a Chrome Finish Full Custom Shower System keeps the space feeling clean and state-of-the-art. This design is the perfect combination of modern innovation and classic style for a relaxing home spa feel that will last a lifetime!

Delta Chrome Centerset Lavatory Faucets with Chrome Tub and Shower Combination Faucet

The master bathroom is a functional home oasis! Delta's Chrome finish is an excellent choice for adding elevated luxury in a master bathroom with a broad spectrum contemporary design. The dual Delta Tesla Collection Centerset Faucets are just modern enough with their sharp 90 degree angled arc, while the Chrome finish gives these state-of-the-art faucets a slight traditional feel. Using large white subway tiles in the shower keeps the master bathroom design feeling classic and somewhat rustic. The inclusion of a Tesla Collection Tub and Shower Combination Faucet in Chrome is the perfect choice in keeping with the traditional elements of the room. Tesla's rounded square shower control and large rain showerhead provide a stylish effect, while the ultra polished Chrome finish shines as both a functional fixture as well as a work of shower art! In addition to Chrome's stunning visual appeal, Chrome is also highly durable and spot resistant due to it's high shine. Chrome may be the ideal choice for any space!

Contemporary Marble and Chrome Master Suite

Photo by Chelsea Court Designs

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Chrome finished fixtures and accessories are the perfect choice for a rustic modern master bathroom like the one pictured here! The highly polished luster of the Chrome finished faucets, mirror frames, and light fixtures smoothly complements the shiny visage of the stunning marble shower stall and vanity counters. Installing twin rustic farmhouse style vanities adds a slight vintage and warm feeling to this modern master bathroom. The designer was smart to include lighter toned floor tiles in this design as they shine in conjunction with the Chrome cabinet hardware, door handles, and accessory fixtures.

Delta Chrome Hand Shower with Temp2o Technology

In a family bathroom, Chrome finished fixtures are durable enough to stand up to the toughest every day use while remaining a spot free and sparkling center piece! Delta's Lahara Collection Single Hole Bathroom Faucet is the perfect choice for a multi-functional family space as the simple one handle design is easy enough for even the youngest user. The mirror-like Chrome finish of the stylish faucet complements the shine of the porcelain pedestal sink, adding an effortless luxurious feeling. Continuing the smart Chrome finish throughout the space with a Chrome Towel Ring and Chrome mounting hardware on the large round mirror keeps the space looking clean and stylish. One of the most unique features of this family bathroom is the use of Delta's Temp2o technology in the large Chrome hand shower! This innovative technology allows you to see the temperature of the water directly on the hand shower to ensure a precise and safe shower experience every time, perfect for families with young children. With state-of-the-art innovation and gorgeously durable faucets and fixtures, this Delta Chrome bathroom is perfect for every family!

Contemporary Farmhouse Chrome Finished Kitchen

Photo by Noelle Interiors

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The traditional farmhouse style is one of the most timeless kitchen designs! A large arcing Chrome kitchen faucet is the perfect fixture to pair with a large white apron front sink. The high arc allows for ample space to clean even the largest pot in the deep sink. This design is a wonderful example of how well a Chrome faucet combines with modern Stainless Steel kitchen appliances. The highly polished shine of the Chrome stands out as a center piece of the space without taking away from the state-of-the-art appliances. This spacious kitchen features a light blue tiled back splash with a unique water-like pattern. The complementary dark blue countertops that run the length of the cabinetry heighten the effect. The slight shine of the teal counters highlight the sparkling Chrome faucet and Chrome cabinet hardware.

Modern Chrome Finished Kitchen with Marble Counters

Photo by JCR Design Group

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A modern farmhouse style is one of the most popular and timeless designs for the kitchen! With all white cabinets and light gray marble counter tops, this design is classically stunning with style that will last generations! In traditional home designs such as this, Chrome finished faucets and fixtures is the perfect choice. In this design, the use of a high arcing Chrome single handle kitchen faucet both emulates the farmhouse style as well as adds a uniquely polished shine to the stark space. The extreme functionality of the single handle allows for ample counter space, which is a must in high use kitchens like this. Including dual large Chrome light fixtures above the eat-in dining space gives this gorgeous kitchen added elegance for a more expensive feel. This truly is a dream home kitchen!

Delta Chrome Single Handle Kitchen Faucet

Using Chrome finish in the kitchen is a bold design choice. Stainless Steel is often the standard choice for most kitchens, in keeping with the popularity of Stainless Steel kitchen appliances. In our opinion, Chrome is a superb choice for kitchen fixtures! The highly polished shine of this Delta Cassidy Chrome Single Hole Kitchen Faucet sparkles as a kitchen center piece, without taking away from the gorgeous Stainless Steel sink. The inclusion of a uniquely tiled back splash seamlessly complements the bright silver appearance of the Chrome kitchen faucet. Delta's Cassidy Collection is a modern take on the popular farmhouse style. With it's pull-down sprayer, this Chrome Cassidy kitchen faucet is highly functional and extremely sophisticated. In a modern kitchen design like this, choosing this stylish Chrome kitchen faucet gives the space a classic feel that will last a lifetime!

Delta Chrome Single Hole Kitchen Faucet with Chrome Soap Dispenser

Delta Faucet's collection of Chrome kitchen faucets are both stunning and highly functional. This Delta Esque Chrome Single Handle Kitchen Faucet features a a large squared spray head that provides ample water flow for a high spray function. The faucet head also doubles as a pull-down sprayer for multi-functionality. Delta's Chrome finish is highly polished, making this finish a popular and timeless choice. The mirror-like shine of this Chrome kitchen faucet illuminates the reflection of the white tiled backsplash against the unique black granite counter tops. The inclusion of large Chrome cabinet handles continues the modern touches throughout the space. Installing a Chrome soap dispenser directly into the counter top not only adds convenient functionality, but also doubles as a stylish focal point! Delta's Chrome Kitchen Collection has the perfect faucet for every kitchen design!

Delta Chrome Single Handle Kitchen Faucet with Chrome Side Sprayer

The Peerless brand of kitchen faucets made by Delta Faucet, feature the bold designs and stunning finishes that Delta is known for, but without the high end price tag! This kitchen showcases the Peerless Precept Single Handle Kitchen Faucet with Side Sprayer. The high arc spout not only allows for ample space in the large double basin sink, but it also highlights the ultra polished shine of the Chrome finish. The lustrous gleaming silver finish complements the gray tones of the concrete counter tops and the reflective appearance of the black tiled back splash. This gorgeously modern Chrome single handle kitchen faucet includes a separate hand sprayer for dual functionality as well as a traditional feel. Peerless's attractive Chrome finish has a slight industrial feel that pairs perfectly with classic Stainless Steel kitchen appliances and tools. In true Delta style, Chrome Peerless faucets are stunning!

Image Source: Hunker.com

Care of Chrome Finish Fixtures

Chrome finished faucets and fixtures may be the easiest to keep clean! Here we share our best tips for keeping your Chrome fixtures looking brand new!

• For day-to-day cleaning, simply use warm water and soap. Wiping the faucet or fixture with a soft cloth after each use will also prevent the buildup of water spots and mineral deposits.
• If you have harder water, it is recommended to use a 1 to 1 water and white vinegar solution and a soft cloth to gently scrub the water buildup. For more stubborn mineral buildup spots, a baking soda and warm water paste may be applied. Allow the paste to rest for 10-15 minutes and gently scrub the fixture with a soft toothbrush.
• One of the best natural cleaning supplies is lemon! Simply cut a lemon in half and rub directly over the Chrome faucet or fixture to remove hard water spots and keep the Chrome finish shining like brand new! For more tips on cleaning your Chrome fixtures naturally, check out this insightful post by Merry Maids!
• Although Chrome is a pretty durable finish, be sure to follow all manufacturer directions if you choose to use commercial cleaners to prevent damage to the finish.
• Chrome polish may be applied regularly to keep your faucet shining! Commercial Chrome polish may be found at any automotive store. Be sure to follow manufacturer directions completely to prevent damage to the finish.

Conclusion - Choose a Stunning Chrome Fixture for Your Bathroom or Kitchen Today!

Chrome has had numerous uses for generations, in both residential and industrial settings. The highly polished shine of Chrome finished faucets and fixtures is ideal for traditional, contemporary, and modern home design. Chrome finished fixtures for the kitchen and bath are incredibly durable and easy to care for. These stunning fixtures will last a lifetime, and are versatile enough to adapt to any home design style trend. Give Chrome fixtures a try, and share a picture of how you incorporated this gorgeously classic finish in your home!

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Spray on chrome 101

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Hard Chrome Plating Equipment.

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First, before we begin please do your research as to which product and company you work with before purchasing your chemicals and equipment because all materials, equipment, systems and companies ARE NOT created equally.

Why Use Spray On Chrome?

Spray on chrome is a cleaner, faster, less expensive and far more environmentally friendly substitute and replacement for traditional hard/decorative chrome.

The advantages of  a spray on chrome kit to the consumer and applicator compared to traditional hard chrome are:

1. Less expensive:

Approximately 60% of the cost of hard chrome.

2. Faster turn around time:

The average turn around time for traditional chrome is 60 days or longer

3. No pitting, rusting or oxidation:

Unlike traditional chrome, spray on chrome is a layer of pure silver which is essentially hermedically sealed between two or more layers of urethane protective coating.

4. Fast and inexpensive spot repair:

If the spray on chrome is scratched or damaged, repair is quick and painless using urethane and silver to repair only the damaged area instead of resurfacing the entire part.

5. Unlike traditional chroming that is limited to only metal, spray on chrome can be used on virtually any substrate and works equally well on metal, fiberglass, plastic, wood, composites, vinyl, ceramic, porcelain, carbon fiber, concrete and much more.

Key Points

There are a few key points that truly need to be addressed about the spray on chrome process that have never been done publicly before.

#1. Chroming with spray on chrome/hydro chrome is not a difficult process but it most certainly requires the user to have the ability to paint and the proper facility and clean environment adequate for spraying/Applying paint.

#2.  Spray on chrome is a 100% identical match to real chrome in every appearance aspect from color, clarity, reflection and brilliance and blue hue when properly applied with the right chemicals.

#3. Spray on chrome will not look yellow if the chemicals are of high quality and the application process is done properly.

The entire process from start to finish

#1. Proper preparation is required on ALL parts regardless of the surface.

In this step by step application guide, we will begin with the preparation steps that will guarantee perfect adhesion between the part itself and the first layer of urethane. We will provide an example for metal. Similar preparation will apply to all other surface substrate types.

Metal:

1. Sand or sandblast the part bringing the surface to approximately a 320 grit profile.

2. Use a conventional fast dry metal filler to fill any imperfections such as pitted, deeply scratched or damaged areas of the part.

3. Prime the surface using a metal primer

4. Sand with 320 grit and finish with 800 grit

5. Clearcoat the part and wait for you clearcoat urethane to fully cure 24 hours air dry or 1 hour forced dry.

6. Examine your part for imperfections in the urethane such as orange peel, drips, runs, fisheye, etc.

6A. If imperfections are visible, wet sand the effected area with 800 grit and re-clear the effected area and wait for a full cure.

Starting with a fully cured glass finish urethane clear coat

1.  Apply a mixture of dish soap and distilled water to the entire part to ensure a grease and oil free surface area to chome.

2. Apply activator agent over the entire part looking for water beads or areas that will not remain wet. You should not see any beads, any fisheye in the sheet of water/wetting agent mixture here at this stage. The mixture should completely sheet over the surface evenly.

3. Apply activator directly over the surface.The activator is essentially a micro acid etching process that softens the urethane and opens the poor of the urethane on a nano scale allowing the silver in step 5 to deposit.

4. Rinse the part very thoroughly for at least 60 seconds using ONLY distilled water ensuring a fully clean and prepped part with nothing but distilled water remaining on the surface.

5. Apply silver solution to the suface until a brilliant chrome finish is achieved. This finish will be extremely reflective and have all the brilliance, shine and intensity of real chrome.

6. Rinse off the surface thoroughly with only de-ionized water.

7. Blow off all remaining water with an air chuck and place the part in a clean dry area for 6 hours or overnight for best results.

8. Clear coat and let cure. Done.

Choosing a spray on chrome brand

When choosing the brand of spray on chrome, you should evaluate several factors before making your decision.

1. Does the product work well?

2. Does the company have good tech support?

3. Does the company offer designated areas or will they sell to anyone?

4. If you didn&#;t know how to paint, would they still sell it to you? (This is the best way to find out if they are serious)

5. Does the company offer marketing support? A good company can help deliver work.

6. Does the company manufacture the product or are they buying it from over seas?

7. Are the company&#;s used products and equipment for sale on websites like eBay? This should be a helpful indicator as to whether or not the product is good. People usually don&#;t sell something if it&#;s making them money.

Article Summary

Spray chrome is an amazing process, it&#;s easy to apply for anyone with a backround in painting and the proper facility to apply it.

Spray on chrome is the ideal method for repairing conventional chrome as well as converting virtually any surface to a beautiful chrome finish.

Having good chemical, proper equipment and good tech support makes all the difference in the world.

Are you interested in learning more about barrel nickel plating machine? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!