Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the questions customers ask us most often about metal restoration, plating, and polishing. If your question isn't listed here, just get in touch. We're always happy to explain how we can help
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For questions about specific services like gold plating or brass polishing, visit the individual service pages where you'll find more detailed information.
Getting a Quote
Prices depend on the size, condition, and type of work needed. A small ring costs less than a large candlestick. Heavy tarnish or damage means more prep work, which affects the price. We give exact quotes based on photos and details you send us, so there are no surprises.
Send us clear photos showing the item and its condition. Tell us what you need done and any specific finish you're after. We'll email you a quote, usually within the hour during working hours. If we need more information, we'll let you know.
No. Quotes are free with no obligation. If you decide not to go ahead, that's fine. We only charge if you approve the quote and we start work on your item.
Clear photos from different angles showing the item and any damage or wear. Tell us the approximate size, what it's made from if you know, and what finish you want. The more detail you give us, the more accurate the quote will be.
We can give a very rough idea, but accurate pricing needs photos. Every item is different, and condition affects the work involved. Send photos and we'll give you a proper quote you can rely on.
Sending Items to Us
Yes. Many customers across the UK send items to us by post. We receive posted items regularly and handle them carefully. Always use tracked and insured delivery so you're protected if anything goes wrong in transit.
Wrap each item separately in bubble wrap or soft cloth. Use a sturdy box with padding so nothing moves around. Include a note inside with your name, phone number, email, and return address. Make sure the box is sealed properly and marked fragile if appropriate.
Yes, recommended. Use Royal Mail Special Delivery or a courier service with full insurance. This protects you if the item gets lost or damaged in transit. We can only take responsibility once it arrives with us.
Stevenson Platers, 34 Woodgrange Avenue, Harrow, London, HA3 0XD. We'll confirm by email or text as soon as your item arrives so you know it's with us safely.
Yes. We're in Harrow, London. Bringing items directly often works better, especially for fragile or valuable pieces. Call 07391 007 123 first to arrange a time so someone's available to see you.
We'll email you or text straight away to confirm it's arrived safely. We'll check the item matches what was described and let you know if anything affects the quote. Once you approve, we start work and keep you updated.
Our Process
Most work takes 1 to 2 weeks depending on the type of job and how busy we are. Larger items, full sets, or heavily damaged pieces can take longer. We'll confirm timescales when we quote and let you know if anything changes.
Yes. We'll let you know when work starts, if we find any issues, and when it's finished. If you want more regular updates, just ask and we'll keep you informed throughout.
We'll tell you honestly before starting any work. If we assess the item and it can't be restored to an acceptable standard, we'll explain why and return it to you. You won't be charged for work we haven't done.
We usually take photos for our records and to show you the finished result. If you'd like specific before and after photos for your own records, just let us know when you send the item and we'll make sure to take them.
You can collect in person from Harrow, or we'll arrange secure return delivery. We pack items carefully and send them tracked and insured. Delivery cost is included in the quote unless you're outside the UK.
Services & Capabilities
We work on gold, silver, brass, copper, bronze, nickel, chrome, aluminium, and steel. We plate, polish, lacquer, and restore most metals. If you're unsure about a specific item, send photos and we'll let you know if we can help.
Yes. We regularly work on heavily worn, tarnished, or damaged items. The worse the condition, the more prep work is needed, which affects the price and time. Send photos showing the damage and we'll tell you what can be done.
Yes, within reason. We've restored large trays, altar rails, and other sizeable pieces. If you're concerned about size, send photos with measurements and we'll confirm if we can handle it.
Yes. We've been restoring church silver, brass, and liturgical items since 1962. We understand the care needed for consecrated items and handle them respectfully. See our Church & Religious Restoration pages for more details.
Pricing & Payment
Every item is different. Size, condition, and type of work all affect the price. A quote based on photos gives you an accurate price for your specific item, rather than a rough guide that might be wrong.
We accept bank transfer and cash if collecting in person.
No. The quote we give you is the price you pay. If we find extra work is needed once we start, we'll contact you before doing it and adjust the quote. You approve any changes before we continue.
After Restoration
It depends on the finish. Plated items should be cleaned gently with a soft cloth and kept away from harsh chemicals. Lacquered brass and copper should be dusted, not polished.
Silver and copper will tarnish naturally when exposed to air and moisture. Gold doesn't tarnish but can wear thin with heavy use. We apply protective lacquer where appropriate to slow tarnish. Items on display last longer than pieces handled daily.
It depends on use. Display items can last decades. Jewellery worn daily or cutlery washed regularly will need re-plating eventually, usually after a few years. We apply finishes properly so they last as long as possible.
Yes. Items can be restored multiple times. When plating wears thin or tarnish builds up, we can strip the old finish and re-plate. Most items we work on have been plated or restored before.
About Stevenson Platers
Since 1962. We're a family business and the skills have been passed down through three generations. The same care and attention that guided our work 60 years ago still applies to every item we restore today.
Every item is handled by a Stevenson family member. We do all the work ourselves from start to finish. You're not dealing with a large company where your item gets passed around. It's us doing the restoration.
We're in Harrow, London. We've been helping customers across London and the UK since 1962. You can visit us in person or send items by post from anywhere in the country.
Didn't Find Your Answer?
If your question isn't listed here, just get in touch. We're always happy to explain how we can help with your restoration.
Call 07391 007 123 or email stevensonplaters@gmail.com
Or request a free quote and we'll discuss your project.