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Acrylic Door Furniture FAQ
Acrylic
door furniture was introduced when modern manufacturing processes allowed the
use of acrylic to copy the look of glass. The
original glass door furniture dated back to the Victorian Age and the style was
that of a plain round glass knob on a simple brass rose.
Nowadays designs are much more featured as acrylic allows further creative
versions of the original style as well as being a safer material to use. Modern
designs still include the original round glass knob, but also available are a
bun shaped knob and a faceted (cut glass) shape. All of the modern day designs
are available on chrome and brass roses rather than just the brass rose used
originally.
The glass style of door furniture was a feature of the emerging Middle Classes
from 1900 onwards. Glass finger plates were introduced to compliment the glass
knobs and were recognised as a symbol of civilisation and gentility at the time.
Used today the acrylic range of door furniture would certainly add a touch of
class to any property!
Q. What is Acrylic?
A. Acrylic is an impact resistant plastic which is half the weight of
glass. It is unaffected by sun or salt spray and can withstand temperatures in
the region of -30°F to +160°F for continuous service. It is therefore an
ideal, relatively maintenance free, robust material for use in door furniture
where an appearance of glass or crystal is desired but without the obvious
dangers of using glass materials in a door handle.
Q. Are there different
types of Acrylic door furniture?
A. Yes, there are different styles and finishes available, typically
clear shapes and faceted shapes. The finish can be clear, opaque or translucent
and occasionally you will find tinted acrylic.
Q. Does Acrylic furniture need any maintenance?
A. This type of furniture needs very little maintenance. The material is
strong and durable and will not be corroded in normal domestic use. If the
furniture has a brass or chrome rose then follow the procedures for this type of
finish as described in Brass Door
Furniture FAQ or Chrome Door
Furniture FAQ. Remember that any brass element of the furniture is likely to
be lacquered and should be treated as described in the Brass Door furniture FAQ.
Q. How should I care for my
Acrylic furniture?
A. Acrylic furniture should be regularly dusted with a soft cloth. Occasionally
it should be cleaned using a mild non-acid soap and warm water, a soft dusting cloth can then be used
to enhance the surface. Do not use window cleaning sprays, abrasive pads,
scouring compounds, acetone, petrol, benzene, carbon tetrachloride, lacquer
thinner or any solvents to clean this type of
furniture as these may be damaging to the surface of the acrylic. The same procedure
will apply to any lacquered brass or chrome parts of the handle.
Q. Why haven't I bought any of
this robust, trouble free door furniture?
That's a very good question, why haven't you? If you have any reasons
why you wouldn't buy it please email
with your feedback.
DISCLAIMER
Bernards makes every effort to ensure that the information contained in our FAQs
is correct and accurate. We can however accept no responsibility for any errors
or omissions or their subsequent effects. Indeed if you find any please let us
know, we appreciate any advice or comments to improve these pages.
Copyright © 2000 [Robert Bernard & Son Ltd]. All rights reserved.
Revised: July 18, 2007
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