How to Darken an Oil-Rubbed Bronze Faucet

Oil-rubbed bronze faucets add an elegant touch to any home. The dark, antique appearance of oil-rubbed bronze deepens with age when properly cared for. Harsh or abrasive cleaning methods and excessive use can wear down the dark finish and reveal the bright, shiny metal underneath. You can purchase oil-rubbed bronze spray paint at most home improvement centers or hardware stores for a quick fix, but antiquing solution provides a more dimensional look. You'll need to remove all traces of lacquer or clear coat before using antiquing solution.

Newspapers or old towels
Rubber gloves
Scrubbing pads
Acetone
Paint stripper
Soft cloths
Large plastic bucket or bowl
Antiquing solution
Sponge
Furniture wax or clear coat spray

Instructions

- 1
  Uninstall the faucet according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- 2
  Place some newspapers or an old towel on a flat, stable work surface. Open any windows for ventilation and put on rubber gloves.
- 3
  Dip a scrubbing pad into acetone or paint stripper and scrub the faucet to remove all traces of lacquer or clear coat. Repeat this until the glossy finish disappears completely.
- 4
  Rinse the faucet with water and dry with a soft cloth.
- 5
  Fill a large plastic bowl or bucket with 1 part antiquing solution and 10 parts lukewarm water. Use enough to cover the faucet and work carefully to prevent splashes or spills.
- 6
  Place the faucet into the bucket or bowl carefully. Move the faucet in the solution to release any air bubbles.
- 7
  Watch the faucet deepen in color until it reaches the desired shade.
- 8
  Remove the faucet carefully and rinse thoroughly with hot water. If it appears too light, return it to the solution. If it's too dark, scrub it with a scrubbing pad to remove any color change and return it to the solution. If it's the proper color, wipe off any residue with a damp sponge.
- 9
  Dry the faucet thoroughly with a soft cloth.
- 10
  Apply a coat of wax to the faucet with a soft cloth and buff away any excess. You also can spray the faucet with clear coat to protect the finish.

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