COPPER VS BRASS LANDSCAPE LIGHTING

• On August 20, 2017

When it comes to picking landscape fixtures, it can be a challenge to decide between the two most popular raw materials: copper or brass. So here are a few considerations to take into account as you debate between raw copper landscape lights or raw brass. Design When weighing the options, aesthetics is going to play a huge part in the selection. While both of these raw materials have a natural look, they do have visually distinct differences overtime. Raw cotends to patina at a quicker rate in comparison to raw brass. So if the homeowner is looking for a darker, vintage appearance they will opt for a raw copper fixture. Not only will the raw copper patina at a faster rate, the appearance will also be a richer, darker tone than raw brass can achieve. Homeowners are looking for a longer lasting polished appearance. Brass holds its brilliance when polished much longer than a copper fixture

Longevity Luckily, copper and brass are both solid materials to use for landscape lighting. They are strong metals that never rust or corrode. There is a reason copper has been used for plumbing, electrical wiring, and roofing – it is strong and reliable. That being said, brass is a harder metal that can be cast, whereas copper cannot. With raw copper fixtures some brass pieces will be used for the elements of the fixture that are cast such as the swivel, wall canopy, socket canopy, and more. Sustainability Raw copper beats out raw brass everytime in an environmentally friendly contest. Raw copper is a pure metal that can be recycled. Brass is a combination of metals, and while it still has value if melted down, raw copper is more expensive and pure in its natural state.*Pics Courtesy of Unique Light Systems