Brass Candlestick & Altar Restoration
We restore liturgical brass to bring back the shine while respecting its sacred purpose.
Altar candlesticks, sanctuary lamps, lecterns, altar rails, and other brass fixtures lose their shine over time. Lacquer breaks down from candle heat and handling. Green corrosion appears. Wax builds up. Dents and damage happen through years of use. We restore brass church items so they can continue serving properly. Every piece is stripped of old lacquer, polished back to its proper finish, and protected with fresh lacquer that lasts. Repairs to bent stems, damaged bases, and worn parts are handled as needed. We've been restoring church brass since 1962, working with parishes, cathedrals, and synagogues across London and throughout Britain.
Why Churches and Synagogues Trust Us
Brass restoration requires understanding how churches use these items. Candle heat, handling, and the environment all affect brass. We've worked with places of worship for over 60 years.
Family run since 1962, serving churches and synagogues across London
We understand how these items are used and what they go through
Complete stripping, polishing, and lacquering for lasting protection
Repairs to bent, damaged, or broken brass pieces
Experience with altar candlesticks, rails, lecterns, and sanctuary lamps
Clear communication with clergy, sacristans, and property committees
Items returned ready to go back into use
How We Restore Brass Church Items
Each piece of brass needs different work depending on its condition and how it's been maintained. Some just need fresh lacquer. Others need complete restoration.
Assess the Brass
We check the condition to see what's needed. This includes looking at lacquer breakdown, corrosion, wax buildup, and any damage that needs fixing.
Strip Old Lacquer
The old lacquer is removed completely. Partial lacquer breakdown causes uneven tarnish, so we start fresh with bare brass.
Remove Corrosion and Wax
Green corrosion from candle wax and environmental exposure is cleaned away. Built-up wax is removed carefully without damaging the brass underneath.
Repair Damage
Bent candlestick stems are straightened, dents are removed, damaged bases are repaired, and loose or broken parts are fixed where possible.
Polish the Brass
The brass is polished to bring back its warm golden colour and smooth finish. We adjust the level of polish based on the original finish and what you prefer.
Apply Fresh Lacquer
Clean protective lacquer is applied to seal the brass and slow tarnish. Properly lacquered brass stays looking good much longer between maintenance.
Final Check
Every piece is inspected to make sure it's ready to return to service.
Most work takes 1 to 2 weeks. Larger items like altar rails or multiple sets of candlesticks may take longer. We keep you updated.
Church and Synagogue Brass We Work With
We restore all types of brass used in places of worship, from small candlesticks to large architectural fixtures.
Altar and Sanctuary Items Altar candlesticks, paschal candle stands, altar crosses (brass portions), sanctuary lamps, altar vases, altar rails and gates.
Processional and Liturgical Processional candlesticks, processional crosses (brass), candle lighters and snuffers, incense boats, collection plates and offering dishes.
Lecterns and Furniture Brass lecterns and reading stands, choir stall fixtures, pew ends and fittings, decorative brass panels and plaques.
Jewish Worship Items Menorahs and hanukkiahs, eternal light fixtures, Torah ornaments and finials, brass synagogue fittings and architectural features.
Common Problems We Fix Broken down lacquer causing uneven tarnish, green corrosion from candle wax, bent or damaged candlestick stems, wax buildup that won't come off safely, dents and damage from handling or accidents, pieces needing complete restoration.
All work preserves the brass properly so it can continue in use.
Places of Worship We Help
We serve Christian and Jewish communities across London and throughout the UK. Churches of all traditions and synagogues trust us with their brass.
Churches Restoring altar candlesticks, rails, lecterns, and sanctuary brass used in regular worship.
Cathedrals and Large Churches Caring for historic brass fixtures and maintaining multiple sets of altar furnishings.
Synagogues Restoring menorahs, eternal lights, Torah ornaments, and architectural brass.
Chapels and Meeting Houses Maintaining brass for college chapels, hospital chapels, Quaker meeting houses, and other worship spaces.
Property Committees and Clergy Working with those responsible for maintaining places of worship and keeping fixtures in good condition.
Restoration Costs
Pricing depends on the size of the items, their condition, and how much work is needed. A single candlestick needing polish and lacquer costs less than a set requiring repair and full restoration.
Send clear photos showing the overall items and any problem areas. Tell us what you've noticed and what concerns you have. We'll assess the work needed and provide a clear quote.
Most restorations take 1 to 2 weeks. Large items like altar rails or multiple sets of candlesticks may take longer. We'll give you realistic timescales with your quote.
How to Send Brass Items to Us
Many churches and synagogues send brass to us from across the UK. Here's how to do it safely.
Pack Carefully Wrap each piece individually in bubble wrap or soft cloth. Use sturdy boxes with adequate padding. Don't let brass pieces touch metal to metal during shipping.
Consider Size and Weight Large or heavy items like altar rails, tall paschal candle stands, or lecterns may need special arrangements. Contact us first to discuss the best way to transport these.
Include Information Send a note with your church or synagogue name, contact person, phone number, email, and return address. Describe any specific concerns.
Use Secure Delivery Always send tracked and fully insured. Royal Mail Special Delivery for smaller items, or a courier with proper insurance for larger pieces.
What Happens We'll confirm when items arrive. You'll get updates during restoration. We'll contact you when work is finished and arrange secure return delivery.
Our Address Stevenson Platers 34 Woodgrange Avenue Harrow London HA3 0XD
Questions About Brass Restoration
Here are questions churches and synagogues commonly ask about brass restoration.
Why does church brass develop green corrosion?
The green colour comes from acids in candle wax reacting with the copper in brass. When lacquer breaks down or gets damaged, wax residue sits directly on the brass and causes this green corrosion. Proper cleaning and fresh lacquer prevents this.
How long does lacquer last on altar candlesticks?
It depends on use. Candlesticks used weekly with candles may need relacquering every 5 to 10 years because heat breaks down the lacquer. Items that aren't exposed to direct candle heat last longer. Handling also wears lacquer over time.
Can you restore very old or antique brass church items?
Yes. We work on brass of all ages, including historic pieces. Older items are handled carefully to preserve their character while bringing them back to proper condition for continued use.
Will restored brass look different from its original appearance?
We aim to match the original finish. If your brass was highly polished, we restore it that way. If it had a softer satin finish, we match that. Any significant changes would be discussed with you before proceeding.
Can you restore brass altar rails or other large fixtures?
Yes. We work on brass altar rails, communion rails, gates, and other large architectural fixtures. These items require careful handling due to size and weight. Contact us to discuss transport arrangements for larger pieces.
What if candlesticks are bent or damaged?
Bent stems can usually be straightened, dents can be removed, and damaged bases can be repaired. If parts are broken off or missing, we'll assess whether they can be fixed or if the piece needs more extensive work.
Should we try to clean brass ourselves before sending it?
No. Cleaning attempts often damage lacquer further or cause scratches. Just send items as they are. We'll handle all the cleaning, stripping, and restoration properly.
Do you work with synagogue items like menorahs?
Yes. We restore menorahs, hanukkiahs, eternal lights, Torah ornaments, and other synagogue brass. The restoration process is similar to church brass, and we treat all items with the care they deserve.
Can we visit to discuss restoration in person?
Yes. For churches or synagogues with multiple items or specific concerns, meeting face to face helps. We're in Harrow, London. Call 07391 007 123 to arrange a time. Some prefer to bring items directly rather than posting them.
Request Your Quote
Send clear photos of your brass items showing the overall pieces and any areas needing attention. Include your church or synagogue name and contact details. We'll assess what's needed and provide a quote.
Brass Restoration Across London and the UK
We've been restoring brass for churches and synagogues across London and the UK since 1962. Every piece is handled with the care it needs. If your place of worship has brass candlesticks, altar rails, or other fixtures needing restoration, we're here to help. Send items by post with full insurance or bring them directly to us in Harrow.
Pricing depends on the size of the items, their condition, and how much work is needed. A single candlestick needing polish and lacquer costs less than a set requiring repair and full restoration.