When selecting metal finishes for shelving and hardware, brass is a popular and timeless choice. But not all brass is created equal. At Soil & Oak, we often get questions about the difference between solid brass and brass-plated rails as we help our customers design their custom shelving. In this post, we’ll break down the key differences in material, cost, durability, and aesthetic so you can choose the best option for your space.
What Is Brass?
Brass is a metal alloy made primarily of copper and zinc, with varying proportions depending on the desired characteristics. It is known for its warm, golden hue and has long been prized for both decorative and functional uses, including in musical instruments, plumbing, and home hardware.
Brass is:
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Malleable and easy to shape
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Corrosion-resistant
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A good conductor of heat and electricity
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Soft compared to steel, with a hardness between 45 and 80 on the Brinell scale
While these properties make brass a great choice for decorative accents, its lower strength and durability make it less suitable for heavy structural use—like shelving rails.
Why We Use Steel Rails Instead of Solid Brass
At Soil & Oak, our shelving rails are made from carbon steel or black steel, which are far more durable and structurally sound than solid brass. Steel provides the strength needed to support large shelving units while still allowing for beautiful finishes like brass plating.
The Cost of Solid Brass vs. Brass-Plated Steel
Solid brass hardware is significantly more expensive than steel-based alternatives. It’s not only costly as a raw material, but also heavier and less practical for high-use applications like shelving rails.
Brass-plated rails, on the other hand, provide the look and feel of brass at a much lower cost—making them a smart, design-forward choice without sacrificing style.
What Is Brass Plating?
Brass plating is a decorative finish created by electroplating a thin layer of brass (copper and zinc alloy) onto a base metal—typically steel or zinc. This technique has been used since the 1600s and is widely used today for its versatility, affordability, and aesthetic appeal.
Brass-plated finishes can range in tone from:
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Classic yellow brass
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Warm red or rose hues
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Antique or patinated effects
This process allows us to achieve a wide variety of finishes—from shiny, polished brass to aged antique brass—without using solid brass throughout the entire part.
Brushed Brass Plated Rails
Polished Brass Plated Rails
Why We Lacquer Our Brass-Plated Rails
Although brass plating provides a beautiful finish, the layer of brass is thin and can be vulnerable to tarnishing, scratches, and discoloration without proper protection. That’s why all of our brass-plated rails receive a durable lacquer coating.
The lacquer:
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Protects against oxidation and tarnish
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Prevents surface scratches
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Preserves the finish's color and shine
For clients who want the rich, aged look of unlacquered or antique brass, we use controlled chemical oxidation processes to achieve the desired patina—without exposing the material to daily wear and tear. Even antique finishes are sealed with a lacquer to lock in the look and extend the life of the finish.
Brass Look, Better Performance
Brass-plated steel rails offer the best of both worlds: the elegance of brass with the strength of steel. Whether you're going for a polished modern vibe or a more vintage, time-worn feel, brass-plated finishes allow for design flexibility without the higher cost of solid brass.
Have questions about which finish is right for your project? Contact our team at Soil & Oak, and we’ll help you choose the perfect hardware to match the style of your space.