Commercial Door Hardware Finishes
Door hardware comes in various finishes that can complement each other and other hardware in your building, whether it's on wood or steel doors. It's important to note that finish availability and color appearance can vary depending on the manufacturer, type of hardware, series, and model.
While aesthetics are important, especially in commercial design projects, they shouldn't be the sole determining factor when selecting door hardware, especially for commercial applications. In commercial settings, the purpose of the building often takes precedence when choosing a finish.
The top-selling finish for commercial facilities is satin chrome. Satin chrome offers a contemporary appearance that blends well with most styles without drawing excessive attention. Moreover, it is highly durable and can withstand more wear and tear than other finishes. This finish involves plating chrome over another metal, enhancing its hardness and resistance to corrosion. It's worth noting that satin nickel, although somewhat similar in appearance, is primarily used in residential applications and rarely found in commercial buildings.
Oil-rubbed bronze is the next popular finish, known for its artistic and aged look. This finish undergoes a chemical darkening or blackening process to achieve its distinctive appearance. However, it has some drawbacks. Over time, the dark bronze coating may wear off, revealing the dull brass or bronze material beneath. The creation process can also lead to variations in the finish, ranging from a dark chocolate hue to a dark gray with copper undertones. Some facilities embrace this unique look, while others may be surprised by the wear patterns that develop where the hardware is frequently touched.
Commercial Door Lock Finishes
Commercial door locks come in diverse finishes that harmonize with existing hardware in your building. The availability and appearance of finishes can differ based on the manufacturer, lock series, and function.
Other finishes such as 10BE/613e Dark Oxidized Satin Bronze equivalent, BSP Black Suede Powder Coat, WSP White Seude Powder Coat, and 626AM Satin Chrome Antimicrobial may be available depending on the hardware manufacturer and lock series.
Commercial Exit Device Finishes
In budget-conscious projects, painted exit devices can substitute for architectural finishes. Painted finishes are generally offered for medium or light-duty devices. If you need heavy-duty hardware without exceeding your budget, consider anodized aluminum. The trim finish choices for exit devices, as well as their availability and color variations, may differ depending on the manufacturer and series.
Other special finishes such as US26D-AM Satin Chrome Antimicrobial, US32D-AM Stainless Steel Antimicrobial, US11/643e Aged Bronze, US15 Satin Nickel, US32 Bright Stainless Steel, BSP Black Suede Powder Coat, and WSP White Seude Powder Coat may be available depending on the hardware manufacturer and device series.
Commercial Door Hinges Finishes
Stainless steel is the preferred choice for exterior outswing applications because of its outstanding resistance to rust and corrosion. When budget constraints arise, prime coat hinges are a suitable option for exterior openings. However, it's advisable to apply a top coat of paint to USP hinges for added protection.
Other finishes may be available depending on the hardware manufacturer and hinge model. Continuous hinges are available in anodized aluminum finishes such as 628 Clear Anodized Aluminum, 313AN Dark Bronze Anodized, and Black Anodized.
Commercial Door Closer Finishes
Door closers are typically specified with a sprayed or painted finish to coordinate with other hardware. While plated closer covers are an option, they are infrequently chosen due to their considerably higher cost and longer lead times.
Commercial Threshold Finishes
Aluminum is the preferred choice for threshold, weatherstrip, and door sweep finishes. It remains a strong choice even when matched with darker hardware tones. Its reputation for durability and resistance to wear and oxidation is well-deserved. However, it's worth noting that black and dark bronze anodized aluminum finishes may exhibit wear over time and are usually not covered by standard warranties.
Other special finishes such as BSP Black Suede Powder Coat and WSP White Seude Powder Coat may be available depending on the hardware manufacturer and series.
