You may have a bronze statue or sculpture in your home and want to preserve its aesthetic. Unfortunately, bronze oxidizes and turns green over time due to exposure to moisture and air.
Thankfully, there are a few steps you can take to maintain the beauty of your bronze statue. By following these guidelines, you’ll keep it looking pristine for years to come!
Cleaning
If you own a bronze statue, candle holder, or any other item made of this metal, it is essential to clean it regularly. Doing so prevents dirt from building up and keeps your piece looking pristine.
To clean bronze, the most effective method is to use an all-natural cleaner such as vinegar or lemon juice. This works exceptionally well for large items like bronze headstones and heavier kitchen utensils.
Begin by mixing equal amounts of salt and plain flour in a bowl, then add enough white vinegar to create a paste with the consistency of toothpaste. Apply this paste onto your bronze object using a polishing cloth or a soft rag and gently rub gently in small circular motions.
Rinse away the paste with warm water and buff your bronze to remove any remaining patina. If a greenish-tinted patina is still present, repeat until all traces have been eliminated. This natural alternative to commercial tarnish removers will return your bronze’s original shine and beauty.
Polishing
Bronze statues or other works of art will look their best when properly cleaned and polished. Doing so helps preserve their original aesthetic, keeping them looking new for an extended period.
A useful polishing paste can be made from baking soda, salt, and a small amount of white vinegar. The consistency should be thick enough to resemble toothpaste.
Put on thin rubber gloves and rub the paste over your bronze, working it in small circles to cover all surfaces. Let sit for an hour or more before rinsing it with water.
Another method for cleaning bronze is applying ketchup, which can break down any tarnish on the metal. However, this method may be messy and not recommended for large or heavy items. You could also mix soap solution and alcohol to clean bronze.
Preventing oxidation
When exposed to moisture or air, bronze oxidizes and loses its copper oxide. This oxidation process causes the bronze to turn green – known as patina – giving it a natural appearance that some people appreciate.
Maintaining your bronze will help to keep it looking shiny and new. Regular cleaning also prevents from forming, which is one of the primary causes of oxidation and patina.
Once your bronze is clean, you can polish it to restore its luster. There are various types of bronze polish you can use for this purpose.
Some polishes contain wax, protecting your bronze from oxidation and keeping it shiny. If you have a piece of bronze susceptible to oxidation, consider using either no wax or a diluted form of resin in the product.
Treating bronze disease
If you own a piece of bronze in your home, it is essential to clean it regularly. Doing so helps prevent rusting, corrosion, and the fading of the patina that develops on the metal’s surface.
However, it’s essential to know how to treat bronze disease to protect your artifact from serious harm. Whether cleaning a statue, address marker, or award, understanding how to treat the bronze disease can save your prized possession from deterioration.
A standard conservation method is to soak bronze objects in a solution of 5 percent sodium sesquicarbonate. You should change the key every week so that the pH balance remains neutral, though this approach may not be ideal for larger objects.
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