When choosing décor for your business or house, picking the metals can be difficult. Furniture, kitchen and bathroom fixtures, and décor all have different requirements for both aesthetic and durability. One of the most common questions we get is about the difference between chrome and stainless steel.
sohoConcept manufactures modern furniture using both chrome and stainless steel, as both have their benefits. Depending on what look you’re trying to achieve and what kind of lifestyle you have, either type of metal can fit into your design.
What’s the difference between chrome and stainless steel?
The difference between chrome and stainless steel is in their makeup. Stainless steel is a metal alloy without plating, containing nickel and at least 10.5% chromium to make it more durable. Different types of stainless steel are created depending on the amount of nickel and chromium in the alloy. Chrome, short for chromium, refers to the plating. Chrome plating is overlaid on a metal core. It consists completely of chromium and is not an alloy.
Chrome is typically polished and very shiny, although the satin and brushed varieties can be more matte. It’s used in both decorative and industrial purposes because it is corrosion-resistant and has a high level of lustre. It’s also a very light metal. This is why chrome dining chairs and chrome stools are often so popular – they are easily to move and rearrange because of their light weight.
Stainless steel is more durable than chrome. It’s corrosion-resistant, scratch-resistant, and tarnish resistant. Depending on the environment, however, it is not completely immune to all stains or wear and tear. It’s often used in environments that need high strength, low cost, and a resistance to corrosion, like in cookware, cutlery, and industrial appliances.
Chrome is often chosen for decorating because it is brighter and shinier than stainless steel. However, because of the polished surface, it can also scratch easily and show fingerprints and dirt easily. With the proper care and upkeep, this can be avoided. However, it’s important to consider when choosing chrome – will there be many people touching it, like children? Will it be used heavily and at risk of scratching?
Stainless steel is easier to keep clean and very durable. Even with heavy use, it is still scratch resistant and won’t dent easily. If you expect your furniture or fixtures to get heavy use, stainless steel is often the better option.
sohoConcept Furniture – Chrome and Stainless Steel
sohoConcept provides modern furniture made with both chrome and stainless steel. Chrome stools, chrome dining chairs, stainless steel stools, stainless steel tables – you have your pick depending on your décor, budget, and lifestyle.
We can help you choose the best metal, chrome vs stainless steel, for your residence or business.