San Francisco Silversmiths · Since 1977
San Francisco Restoration & Repair
- Copper -
A Legacy of
Copper Restoration & Repair Expertise
Biro & Sons is a family-owned San Francisco silversmith founded in 1977, using generations of experience and old-world craftsmanship to repair and restore copper pots and pans, pitchers, mugs, plates, candle holders, lighting fixtures, and decorative plates to their warm, classic look. We do all restoration and repair work in our San Francisco shop.
Our services cover the full range of copper restoration: repairing dents, scratches, loose handles, fixing leaks, and broken details on pots and pans, candle holders, and more.
We often receive and repair copper pots and pans that need the tin-wash inside the pan restored. The service we provide is based on the original process called the French Hot Dip Wipe. The process begins when a craftsman places a lump of tin in a pot or pan and heats it. Then they put on a metal glove and wipe the melted tin throughout the interior of the vessel.
We restore copper family heirlooms and kitchen pieces handed down through generations.
Whether you’re in the Bay Area or shipping in from across the country, we’re here to help. We also accept mail-in requests for copper repairs from across the U.S. and Europe.
The Benefits of
Copper Cookware
Something special happens when you walk into a kitchen stocked with copper cookware, including pots, pans, and kettles. The warm aura of copper glows, giving a sense of elegance first. Then, knowing the world’s best chefs use copper cookware, anticipation builds for a truly special dining experience.
Beyond the aesthetics of copper, its properties make it a superior material for sautéing vegetables, preparing a sauce, or searing meat.
Here’s why:
Heat Conductivity and Distribution — copper heats quickly and evenly, reducing the risk of hotspots and uneven cooking.
Temperature Control — copper responds quickly to temperature changes, giving chefs precise control over in-pan heat.
Aesthetics — copper cookware adds elegance and sophistication to any kitchen, improving the appearance of a home chef’s workspace.
Caring for
Copper Cookware
Copper and cast iron share one thing in common: they take a lot of elbow grease to clean and maintain.
Tip 1: Never put your copper pans in the dishwasher. Handwash each piece with a non-stiff tool in an acidic or vinegar solution (think lemon juice or tomato paste).
Tip 2: Most copper cookware is lined with tin or stainless steel. So, avoid using metal utensils while cooking to prevent metal from getting cooked into your meal.
Unlike cast iron, seasoning a copper pan is difficult. Enjoy the fresh flavors every time you use it. However, with time and use, your cookware will develop a green swirling patina that adds character to the bottom of the piece.
We welcome you to see the Biro & Sons’ workshop.
Restoring and Repairing Copper Pieces
Known for its beauty and warmth, copper also dents, dings, leaks, and breaks easily.
Regular use of copper cookware, kettles, plates, or utensils opens the door to all kinds of damage, from scratches and dings to loose handles or leaky seams. We’ve removed dents from dropped pans, kettles that leak after decades of use, and repaired broken arms on candle holders.
Many of our clients ask us to replate a fixture for their home with copper. We’ve replated door knobs, handles, plates, or hinges. Daily opening and closing of doors often causes scratches from keys or use that we can buff out and restore.
Anytime a copper piece comes into the Biro & Sons shop, we inspect each item for structural and surface damage. Over the past 40 years, we’ve seen and restored nearly any issue using old-world craftsmanship and tools.
Dings or dents are restored with a gentle touch. Loose or broken handles are repaired to ensure structural integrity. We can recreate lost details to match almost any design. Scratches are buffed out.
We restore and repair copper pieces by hand, ensuring every piece returns to its usefulness and beauty while protecting the detail of the piece as much as the copper’s condition allows.
Should we polish our copper?
Tarnish or patina can often be mistaken for age or neglect, but it can also be considered a quiet layer of history. Expert silversmiths know how to master the art of patina.
Sometimes tarnish overwhelms a piece, and fine details are lost. Grime and dirt are common enemies of copper’s beauty.
In the hands of an expert who uses old-world craftsmanship and tools like the ones you’ll find at Biro & Sons, polishing a copper piece can be done respectfully. Our philosophy is to retain as much character as possible while removing anything in the way of the piece’s beauty.
Of course, if the artist who created the original piece specially oxidized the copper, then that specialized patina should be maintained and honored.
Knowing when a piece needs professional cleaning is important. We’re always available to talk if you have any questions.
Biro & Sons handles all work in-house, using the best materials available and old-world techniques to bring every piece back to its original form.
We’re Here to Help
The Warm Glow
Our Copper Life
Copper Restoration and Repair
Before & After Gallery
Copper Restoration and Repair
FAQs
Q: Should I polish my copper?
A: Yes! Carefully removing dirt and grime, often using cotton swabs, is essential to maintaining the beauty of every copper piece. We believe in respecting the patina on any item, especially if the original artist oxidized it intentionally.
Q: Can you replate a copper piece?
A: Yes, after inspecting the piece to ensure it is fundamentally sound and that replating it will deliver excellent results. We can plate in copper using electroplating, adding copper to worn cookware or candle holders. Your complete satisfaction is our goal, and we’ll let you know if restoring an item to its original condition isn’t realistic.
Q: Can you plate door hardware?
A: Yes! We’re often asked to plate a fixture that was originally brass with copper. This is especially popular with Victorian-era hardware. We’ve plated door knobs, handles, plates, and hinges.
Q: Can you repair dents and scratches?
A: Yes, more often than not. We have repaired hundreds of copper items back to their original majesty. It’s best to send us a picture or bring it in, and we can discuss.
Q: Do you work with customers outside of San Francisco?
A: Yes! We receive packages from across the United States and Europe for silver restoration and repair. First, fill out our Repair by Mail form with clear photos and a description of what’s happening. Then we set up a free consultation, provide packing instructions, and work on your items as soon as we can. We will update you as we go and arrange return shipping when it’s done.
Q: How much does copper restoration cost?
A: The best way to get an accurate number is to send us a photo. We’ll send a written estimate before any work begins. Every project starts with a free written estimate, since cost depends on the piece and the work needed.