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antique or reproduction?
When you know you want to use period-style hardware, you have a choice between original antique hardware or reproduction hardware. There are advantages and disadvantages to each type.
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| • availability |
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reproduction iron drop pull
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It is much easier to find matching quantities in reproduction hardware than in antique hardware. It will also be easier to find the same pattern of reproduction hardware in the future, should you need more.There are many more patterns and styles of antique hardware than reproduction hardware. There are some very good reproductions being made, but there is not nearly as much variety.If you need hardware right away, and have a good source, antique hardware will be your best bet. The lead time on reproduction hardware can be as long as six months. |
• authenticity
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iron handle on a Monterey brand desk circa 1930
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Antique hardware is a piece of the past. No matter how good a reproduction piece is, it is still brand-new. But, if you're involved in a restoration project and can't find enough antique hardware, it is far better to use reproduction hardware than to use brand-new hardware that is incompatible with your restoration.
If you're involved in a restoration project that falls under state or federal historic preservation statues, check with the applicable agency to see whether there are guidelines dictating the type of hardware you can use.
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| • condition |
Antique hardware is old and has been used. This means it will never be in brand-new condition, but for most people that's part of its charm.By its very nature, reproduction hardware is in better shape than antique hardware. It won't need to be straightened, stripped, plated, or polished before you use it.On the other hand, reproduction finishes are usually really shiny. If this isn't the look you're after, you can strip the protective lacquer and use a professional darkening solution to age the metal. You can reapply the lacquer to prevent further aging, or you can leave it off to encourage aging.If you're using reproduction hardware, buy the best quality hardware you can afford. Quality varies greatly from manufacturer to manufacturer, and with hardware you really do get what you pay for. Cheaply made hardware will not stand the test of time, and an inexpensive doorknob is no bargain if you need to replace it in a few months.
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| • installation |
Most professional installers prefer to work with reproduction hardware because it is brand-new, and all the pieces are guaranteed to work.Antique hardware does not always conform to contemporary building codes or regulations concerning access for the disabled. Check with your local authorities about these issues.
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