Brushed Nickel vs Chrome: Which One Should You Choose?

If you are looking for a new faucet for your kitchen or bathroom, you might be wondering which finish to choose. Two of the most popular options are brushed nickel and chrome, but what are the differences between them and which one is better for your space? In this article, I will compare brushed nickel vs chrome faucet in terms of appearance, durability, maintenance, and cost.

Brushed Nickel vs Chrome Faucets

Appearance

One of the main differences between brushed nickel and chrome faucets is the look of the metals. Chrome is a shiny and bright finish that reflects light from its surface due to chrome electroplating over the base metal. Brushed nickel is a more subdued and matte finish that has a slightly textured appearance due to being treated with a wire brush to dull the shine.

The look of the finishes can also vary depending on the manufacturing process, affecting the tone and color of the metals. Chrome has a slightly blue tint, while nickel has a natural yellow or white shine. Brushed nickel can also have different shades depending on the density of the nickel used and the plating variability.

The choice of finish can affect the overall style and mood of your space. Chrome is seen as more modern and sleek, while brushed nickel is more traditional and cozy. Chrome works best with cooler colors such as blues, greens, and purples, while brushed nickel complements warmer colors such as oranges, reds, and yellows.

Durability

Both brushed nickel and chrome faucets are durable and resistant to corrosion and rust. However, they have different strengths and weaknesses when it comes to wear and tear. Chrome is harder and more scratch-resistant than brushed nickel, but it is also more prone to chipping and peeling if the plating is not done properly. Brushed nickel is softer and more susceptible to scratches, but it is also more forgiving and less noticeable due to its matte finish.

Another factor to consider is how well the finishes match with other fixtures and accessories in your space. Chrome is easier to match because it has a consistent color and shines across different brands and products. Brushed nickel can be harder to match because it can have different shades and textures depending on the manufacturer. If you want a uniform look, you might want to stick with one brand or product line for your brushed nickel fixtures.

Maintenance

Both brushed nickel and chrome faucets are easy to clean and maintain, but they have different challenges when it comes to keeping them looking their best. Chrome is more susceptible to fingerprints, water spots, soap scum, and dirt due to its shiny surface. You will need to wipe it regularly with a soft cloth or a mild cleaner to keep it sparkling. Brushed nickel is more forgiving and hides fingerprints, water spots, and dirt better due to its matte finish. However, you will still need to clean it occasionally with a soft cloth or a gentle cleaner to prevent the buildup of minerals or tarnish.

Another thing to keep in mind is how well the finishes react with different types of water. Chrome is more resistant to hard water stains than brushed nickel because it has a smoother surface that does not trap minerals as easily. Brushed nickel can develop a dull or cloudy appearance over time if exposed to hard water or acidic substances. You might want to install a water softener or filter if you have hard water in your area or avoid using harsh cleaners that can damage the finish.

Cost

Both brushed nickel and chrome faucets are affordable options that can suit different budgets. Chrome used to be cheaper than brushed nickel because it was more widely available and easier to produce. However, in recent times, there is not much difference in price between the two finishes because they are both in high demand and require similar processes. The cost of your faucet will depend more on the brand, quality, design, and features than on the finish.

Common FAQ

Should I get chrome or brushed nickel faucets?

Deciding between chrome and brushed nickel based on appearance is a matter of personal choice. If you want a highly polished and reflective finish, chrome is the obvious choice. However, if you prefer a more subdued and less shiny look, brushed nickel may be the better option, as it has a softer appearance that pairs well with stainless steel appliances.

Are brushed nickel faucets still in style?

In 2022, the second most popular finish is brushed nickel. In addition to its visual appeal, brushed nickel has the added advantage of concealing minor water spots, making the faucet appear cleaner for a longer period than a typical chrome faucet.

Are chrome faucets out of style?

Not! Chrome remains one of the most timeless finishes for home fixtures, including kitchen faucets. Its versatility is unmatched and it can effortlessly complement both modern and contemporary home designs.

Conclusion

Brushed nickel vs chrome faucet are both great choices for your kitchen or bathroom. They have their advantages and disadvantages when it comes to appearance, durability, maintenance, and cost. The best finish for you will depend on your personal preference, design style, and water quality. Here are some key points to remember:

• Chrome is shiny and bright, while brushed nickel is matte and textured.
• Chrome is more modern and sleek, while brushed nickel is more traditional and cozy.
• Chrome is harder and more scratch-resistant, but also more prone to chipping and peeling. Brushed nickel is softer and more forgiving, but also more susceptible to scratches.
• Chrome is more susceptible to fingerprints and water spots, but also more resistant to hard water stains. Brushed nickel is more forgiving and hides dirt better, but also more prone to tarnish and dullness.
• Chrome is easier to match with other fixtures and accessories, while brushed nickel can vary in shade and texture.
• Chrome and brushed nickel have similar prices, depending on the brand, quality, design, and features of the faucet.

I hope this article has helped you decide which finish to choose for your new faucet. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below. Thank you for reading!