While most people keep their home’s original plastic switch plate covers, sometimes, it’s just time for an upgrade. When that time comes, you’re probably not looking for more plastic; you want something with a bit more class and durability, and metal provides precisely that. There are many different types of metal to choose from, each with its unique style and charm. Keep reading to learn more about three different kinds of metal that work beautifully as switch plates.
Nickel
Nickel has a beautiful gray finish in several closely related hues. Slightly darker than silver, it still adds some brightness to the room while grounding it with its solid appearance. Nickel usually has a high sheen like some other metals and is most commonly seen with a brushed finish. It keeps the look more subtle and classical than sleek, shiny materials like chrome. Nickel is also a workable metal, so it’s available in various styles that can include trims and frames, textured surfaces, unique shapes, and other beautiful details to help set your space apart.
Bronze
If a gray finish doesn’t work well with your home décor, consider bronze instead. This metal has a deep, earthy brown color that works great in earth-toned spaces. It has a bit more range in color than nickel and can be either a lighter, reddish-brown, or a deep, near-black shade. You can even find some varieties with a bright, yellowish hue close to the look of gold. It provides you with plenty of options to find something that coordinates with your decorating style.
Like nickel, bronze is an easy metal to work with, so there are many different style options out there. You can opt for simple, unembellished plates or ones with interesting and complex patterns on their surface.
Chrome
Of course, a high shine isn’t always a bad thing. If you’re decorating your space in a modern style, bright and shiny chrome could be what you need for your light plate covers. Chrome has an ultra-modern look with a highly polished, reflective finish. This metal can be the perfect accent material for any space.
Whichever metal you choose for your light plate covers, you must coordinate them with any other metal accents in the space. Nickel probably won’t work well in a dining room with gold-framed dining chairs, and chrome will likely stand out in a kitchen with rubbed bronze hardware on the cabinetry. As long as you coordinate the metals in your space, your new wall plate covers will look beautiful no matter what material you choose!
