Trusted Since 2001
Commercial door hardware finishes use two parallel designation systems under ANSI/BHMA A156.18: legacy US codes (US3, US26D, US32D) and current BHMA three-digit codes (605, 626, 630). They describe the same finishes. The most important technical distinction is between US26D/626 (satin chrome plated: corrosion resistance from a surface coating) and US32D/630 (satin stainless steel: corrosion resistance from the base material itself). For exterior, wet, or chemical-exposure environments, US32D is required because plating wears through. For coastal applications within one mile of saltwater, specify 316-grade stainless explicitly since standard US32D is 304-grade. Oil-rubbed bronze (US10B/613) is a living finish: intentional wear is expected and is explicitly excluded from most manufacturer finish warranties. LCN door closers use painted finishes (689 aluminum, 691 bronze) rather than plated finishes.
Finish codes appear on every hardware schedule and every product order. They determine whether replacement hardware matches existing hardware, whether the finish is appropriate for the environment, and whether the warranty is valid after installation. Ordering the wrong finish code produces a visible mismatch on the opening. Installing an interior-rated finish on an exterior application voids the manufacturer warranty. Getting finish selection right at the order stage prevents both issues.
Browse SecurityParts.com hardware by finish: Von Duprin exit devices in US32D, US26D, US28, and US10B, Schlage ND Series cylindrical locks in all standard finishes, Schlage L Series mortise locks by finish, LCN 4040XP closers in painted finish codes, and the complete Allegion hardware catalog.
How the US Finish Code and BHMA Code Systems Work Together
The ANSI/BHMA A156.18 standard governs materials and finishes for all commercial door hardware. It establishes finish code numbers, descriptions, base materials, and corrosion resistance test requirements. The standard maintains both the legacy US finish code system (US3, US26D, US32D) and the current BHMA three-digit system (605, 626, 630) because both remain in active use throughout the industry.
Hardware schedules written by architects often use US codes because they are more descriptive and recognized by facility managers. Product catalogs from manufacturers often list the BHMA three-digit code because it is the current ANSI-designated system. When a hardware schedule specifies US32D and a product catalog lists 630, they are the same finish. When ordering a replacement part or a new product, confirm which code system the manufacturer uses for that product line before ordering.
The Dual System Cross-Reference
Most major commercial finish codes map directly between the two systems. US26D equals BHMA 626. US32D equals BHMA 630. US3 equals BHMA 605. US10B equals BHMA 613. The letter suffix in a US code provides additional information about the surface texture: D suffix (as in US26D or US32D) indicates a satin (dull, brushed) texture, while a code without a D suffix (US26, US32) indicates a bright (polished, mirror) texture. BHMA codes do not use a letter suffix for this distinction: separate code numbers cover satin and bright versions of the same base finish.
Complete Commercial Finish Reference: Every Major US and BHMA Code
Base metal and finish process
Bright polished brass. Mirror-reflective surface on a brass base metal. The polished surface shows every fingerprint and surface scratch, requiring frequent cleaning to maintain appearance.
Where it is used
High-end hospitality, historic renovation, upscale residential multifamily lobby areas, and architectural applications where warm metallic warmth is a design priority. Rarely specified in standard institutional or commercial applications due to maintenance demands.
Base metal and finish process
Brushed satin finish on brass base metal. The satin texture hides fingerprints better than polished brass. Sometimes called brushed brass or satin antique brass.
Where it is used
Hospitality, multifamily, and warm-toned architectural environments where brass aesthetics are desired with lower maintenance than polished brass. More commonly specified in residential-adjacent commercial applications than in institutional settings.
Base metal and finish process
Chemically darkened or blackened bronze or brass base metal to produce an intentionally aged, antique appearance. The darkened layer is a surface treatment, not a plating.
The living finish characteristic
Oil-rubbed bronze is the most commonly specified living finish in commercial hardware. High-contact surfaces like lever grips wear through the darkened treatment over time, exposing the lighter bronze or brass beneath. This wear-through is intentional and expected: it is the defining characteristic of a living finish. Most manufacturers explicitly exclude living finish wear from their product warranties. The second-best-selling commercial hardware finish after satin chrome.
Base metal and finish process
Electroplated chrome layer over a brass or steel base metal, brushed to produce a satin (non-reflective) surface. The chrome plating is the source of the finish's appearance and corrosion resistance.
Critical limitation
Corrosion resistance depends entirely on the integrity of the chrome plating layer. When the plating is scratched through, worn away, or penetrated by harsh cleaning chemicals, the underlying base metal is exposed and begins to corrode. This is why US26D is rated for interior, dry, climate-controlled environments only. The most widely specified finish in standard commercial construction for interior applications. The best-selling commercial hardware finish overall.
Base metal and finish process
Anodized aluminum with a clear coat over the anodized surface. The anodizing process converts the aluminum surface to aluminum oxide, an integral and extremely hard layer that is part of the metal itself, not a coating applied on top. The clear coat provides additional protection and seals the anodized surface.
Where it is used
Von Duprin exit devices and trim on aluminum storefront door systems, exit device mechanisms in aluminum construction, push-pull bars, and continuous hinges on aluminum frame applications. The aluminum base is lightweight and resists oxidation well. Suitable for exterior applications in most environments but not for coastal high-salt environments where the anodized aluminum can develop white oxidation spots over extended exposure.
Base metal and finish process
Mirror-polished surface on stainless steel base metal. Corrosion resistance is identical to US32D because the base material is the same 304 stainless steel. The polished surface shows fingerprints and surface scratches readily in high-touch applications.
Where it is used
Architectural applications where mirror-stainless aesthetics are specified. Less common in standard commercial construction than US32D due to the maintenance requirements of keeping a polished surface looking clean in high-traffic environments.
Base metal and finish process
Directionally brushed (satin) surface on 304 stainless steel base metal. No plating: the base material itself is stainless steel throughout. Corrosion resistance comes from the chromium content of the steel, not from a surface coating. Even when scratched, the underlying material is still stainless steel.
Why it is the standard exterior and high-performance interior finish
US32D is the most widely specified finish for exterior hardware, hospital and healthcare corridors, food service and kitchen environments, laboratories, and any application involving frequent cleaning with bleach, quaternary ammonium compounds, or other cleaning agents that degrade chrome plating. The satin texture hides fingerprints and minor surface scratches well.
Base metal and finish process
Flat black powder coat or paint over various base metals. Availability varies significantly by manufacturer and product series. Not all hardware product lines offer flat black as a standard finish option.
Where it is used
Modern architectural and hospitality applications, black door frame aesthetics in contemporary office and retail design. Interior applications only in standard configurations. Powder coat durability exceeds paint but both are surface coatings subject to chipping in high-impact areas.
Base metal and finish process
Dark bronze plated over steel base, satin texture. Sometimes called duranodic bronze or architectural bronze depending on the manufacturer and product line. Dark bronze (BHMA 710 or similar) is an anodized aluminum version available on some product lines.
Where it is used
Bronze-toned architectural hardware in commercial and institutional buildings. Common on Von Duprin exit device trim in bronze-dominant building aesthetics. Duranodic (US711) is an anodized aluminum version often specified for aluminum door applications.
US26D vs US32D: The Most Important Finish Decision in Commercial Hardware
This comparison drives more finish specification errors and more warranty denials than any other finish decision in commercial hardware. The two finishes appear visually similar: both are a brushed, silver-toned, non-reflective surface. The operational difference is fundamental.
| Factor | US26D / 626 (Satin Chrome) | US32D / 630 (Satin Stainless) |
|---|---|---|
| Base metal | Brass or steel (non-stainless) | Stainless steel (304 standard) |
| Corrosion resistance source | Chrome plating layer on surface | Stainless steel base material throughout |
| Behavior when scratched | Exposes corrosion-prone base metal | Exposes stainless steel (still corrosion-resistant) |
| Cleaning chemical resistance | Plating degrades with bleach/harsh cleaners | Resists bleach, quaternary ammonium, most cleaners |
| Exterior applications | Not suitable; plating fails | Standard exterior specification |
| Healthcare environments | Limited (low-chemical-exposure areas) | Standard healthcare specification |
| Food service and kitchen | Not suitable | Standard food service specification |
| Standard commercial interior | Suitable; most economical | Suitable; higher performance |
| Cost relative comparison | Lower cost per piece | Higher cost per piece |
| Manufacturer warranty on exterior | Typically voided | Covered for standard exterior environments |
304 vs 316 Stainless Steel: When Standard US32D Is Not Enough
Both 304 and 316 stainless steel carry the US32D/630 finish designation under ANSI A156.18 because both produce an identical satin stainless appearance. The designation does not specify the grade. For most inland commercial applications, 304 stainless provides completely adequate corrosion resistance. In coastal and marine environments, the grade distinction matters significantly.
The Chloride Ion Problem
304 stainless steel is susceptible to a specific type of corrosion called pitting corrosion when exposed to chloride ions in concentrations found in salt air near coastlines. The chromium oxide passive layer that gives stainless steel its corrosion resistance breaks down locally under sustained chloride exposure, producing small, dark pitting marks on the surface. 316 stainless steel adds 2 to 3 percent molybdenum to the alloy, which dramatically increases resistance to chloride-ion pitting. Molybdenum stabilizes the passive layer against chloride attack.
When to Specify 316
Specify 316-grade stainless explicitly (note it separately in the hardware schedule beyond just US32D) for any opening within approximately one mile of saltwater shoreline, in any marine or waterfront environment, in buildings with indoor swimming pools where chlorinated water vapor is present in the air, and in any food-processing environment using salt brine or other chloride-containing processing fluids.
Environment-Specific Finish Recommendations
Recommended finish
US32D/630 specified as 316-grade stainless steel. Do not accept 304-grade substitution. Specify 316 explicitly on every line item for coastal projects.
Finishes to avoid
US26D/626 (chrome plating fails rapidly in salt air), US3/605 and US4/606 (brass oxidizes and discolors in salt environments), US10B/613 (bronze darkening accelerates in salt air), anodized aluminum (US28/628) develops white oxidation deposits in high-salt environments over time.
Door closer finish
LCN and other closer manufacturers do not typically offer 316 stainless closer bodies. For coastal environments, use a painted powder coat finish in a matching color and expect more frequent maintenance cycles than inland installations.
Recommended finish
US32D/630 satin stainless for all patient-contact and high-clean areas. Stainless steel resists bleach, quaternary ammonium disinfectants, and hydrogen peroxide products that are standard in healthcare cleaning protocols.
Antimicrobial finish options
Allegion offers US26D-AM (antimicrobial satin chrome) and US32D-AM (antimicrobial satin stainless) on some product lines for healthcare applications. These finishes incorporate antimicrobial agents into the plating or coating layer, providing continuous antimicrobial activity on the surface between cleaning cycles. Availability is product-specific: not all series offer the AM option.
High-touch areas
Lever handles, push plates, and pull bars on high-traffic patient room doors see the most cleaning cycles. These components benefit most from US32D or US32D-AM specification.
Recommended finish
US32D/630 satin stainless throughout. Food service environments use strong cleaning and sanitizing chemicals including chlorinated sanitizers, degreasers, and acid-based cleaners. Chrome plating (US26D) degrades rapidly under these chemicals. Stainless steel resists all standard food service cleaning chemicals in the 304 grade.
Fastener specification note
In commercial kitchen applications, also specify stainless steel fasteners for all hardware mounting. Standard zinc-coated or black oxide screws will rust in the high-moisture, chemical-exposure environment of a kitchen, compromising the finish appearance and potentially weakening the hardware mounting.
Recommended finish for most applications
US26D/626 satin chrome for interior non-wet, non-chemical-exposure corridors and offices. US26D is the best-selling commercial interior finish because it provides a clean, contemporary appearance at a lower cost than US32D while providing adequate durability in climate-controlled interior environments.
Upgrade to US32D when
The opening is in a wet area (restroom entry, gym corridor, pool area), subject to frequent cleaning with harsh chemicals (janitorial closets, custodial areas), or on a project where long-term finish uniformity is a priority (US32D maintains consistent appearance longer than US26D as the plating on chrome gradually dulls).
How to Match Finishes Across a Complete Door Opening
A complete commercial door opening includes multiple hardware components from potentially different manufacturers: a lockset or exit device, a door closer, hinges, and possibly a kickplate, push plate, pull bar, or door viewer. All visible hardware in a single opening should match in finish. Mismatches are visible, look unprofessional, and are typically cited as non-conformance during punch list inspections.
The Door Closer Painted Finish Convention
Door closers present a unique challenge. The complex body geometry of a door closer makes uniform plating difficult and expensive. Industry convention specifies door closers in painted finishes that complement the lockset and exit device finish rather than attempting to match the plated finish exactly.
LCN 4040XP Series painted finish codes: 689 is painted aluminum (silver-toned, pairs with US26D and US28), 690 is painted bronze (pairs with US10B and US10), 691 is painted dark bronze (pairs with US10 and dark bronze trim). When specifying a complete opening for an LCN 4040XP, list the closer finish as 689, 690, or 691 depending on the lockset finish, not as a US code.
Von Duprin Exit Device Finish Codes
Von Duprin uses a combined finish designation on exit device orders. Common codes: US32D or 630 for satin stainless, US26D or 626 for satin chrome, US28 or 628 for satin aluminum (standard on aluminum exit device configurations), US10B or 613 for oil-rubbed bronze on trim components. The mechanism case of most Von Duprin rim devices ships in painted aluminum or steel regardless of the ordered finish code: the finish code applies primarily to the latch, strike, and trim components.
Browse Von Duprin exit device parts by finish code, Von Duprin electric strike parts in US32D and US26D, and complete Von Duprin hardware and finish options at SecurityParts.com. Contact the SecurityParts.com team at 845-935-0301 for finish matching support and 316-grade stainless availability confirmation.
Why Choose Security Parts for Finished OEM Hardware Parts
US26D plating failure mechanism, 316 specification language, living finish warranty exclusion, closer painted finish convention, antimicrobial AM options, and same-day OEM shipping.
US26D Exterior Failure Mechanism
We document the specific mechanism by which US26D fails on exterior applications: plating scratch-through exposes base metal, which corrodes under moisture, and the corrosion lifts surrounding plating. This failure is invisible at installation and develops over months, making environment specification the only prevention.
316 Specification Language
We document that US32D/630 without a grade call-out defaults to 304 stainless. Coastal projects must explicitly specify "316-grade" in the hardware schedule. This prevents the most common coastal hardware failure: receiving 304 stainless on a project that requires 316.
Living Finish Warranty Exclusion
We document that oil-rubbed bronze (US10B) is a living finish with intentional wear-through explicitly excluded from most manufacturer warranties. This is not documented in competitor parts content and surprises facility managers who expect the finish to be covered.
Same-Day OEM Shipping
OEM hardware parts in all standard finishes ship same day from US warehouses. Call 845-935-0301 or the contact page for 316-grade availability and finish matching support before ordering.
What Makes Security Parts Different for Hardware Finish Specification
- We document the US26D exterior plating failure mechanism: corrosion begins at scratch penetrations invisible at installation and develops over months, voiding the manufacturer warranty retroactively. This failure mode is documented nowhere in competitor parts supplier content at the ordering level.
- We document the specific 316-grade stainless specification language required to prevent coastal projects from receiving 304-grade substitutions. A schedule that says US32D without "316-grade" receives 304 stainless by default, which can show chloride pitting in coastal environments within months.
- We document the living finish (US10B oil-rubbed bronze) warranty exclusion explicitly. Wear-through is expected behavior, not a manufacturing defect, and is excluded from most manufacturer finish warranties. Facility managers specifying oil-rubbed bronze for high-traffic doors should understand the maintenance implication before specifying.
- We document the BHMA 626 vs 652 distinction (same US26D appearance, different base metal) and when it matters for fire listing verification on products where base metal affects the product's assembly compliance.
- We carry Von Duprin exit devices, Schlage ND Series locks, Schlage L Series mortise locks, and LCN closers in all standard finish codes with same-day OEM shipping.
- Free shipping on orders over $450. Same-day shipping from US warehouses on stocked parts. 30-plus years of commercial door hardware experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Door Hardware Finish Codes
What is the difference between US finish codes and BHMA finish codes?
Both systems describe the same hardware finishes using different numbering conventions. US codes use a US prefix with number and letter (US3, US26D, US32D). BHMA three-digit codes (605, 626, 630) are the current ANSI standard under A156.18. They always map one-to-one: US26D equals BHMA 626, US32D equals BHMA 630. Hardware schedules often use US codes; product catalogs often use BHMA codes. Cross-reference the table in this guide when the two systems appear in the same specification.
What is the difference between US26D (satin chrome) and US32D (satin stainless) and which should I specify for exterior hardware?
US26D is chrome plated over a brass or steel base: corrosion resistance comes from the plating layer. US32D is satin stainless steel throughout: corrosion resistance comes from the base material. When US26D plating is scratched, corrosion-prone base metal is exposed. When US32D is scratched, stainless steel is exposed. For all exterior applications, wet environments, healthcare cleaning environments, and food service applications, specify US32D. Installing US26D on exterior applications typically voids the manufacturer warranty.
What is the difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel door hardware and when is 316 required?
Both carry the US32D/630 designation because both produce an identical satin stainless appearance. 304 stainless is the standard commercial grade. 316 stainless adds molybdenum for significantly higher chloride-ion corrosion resistance. Specify 316-grade explicitly for coastal environments within approximately one mile of saltwater, indoor pool facilities, and chloride-exposure environments. A schedule that says US32D without "316-grade" defaults to 304. Write "US32D/630, 316-grade stainless" to ensure 316 is supplied.
What is a living finish and what does it mean for door hardware warranties?
A living finish intentionally changes appearance over time. Oil-rubbed bronze (US10B/613) and aged brass variants wear through their darkened treatment on high-contact surfaces like lever grips over time, revealing lighter bronze or brass beneath. This wear is expected and intentional, not a defect. Most manufacturers explicitly exclude living finish wear from their product warranties. Facilities specifying oil-rubbed bronze for high-traffic commercial doors should expect appearance changes and understand the finish warranty does not cover wear-through.
Why are LCN door closers specified in painted finishes rather than US finish codes?
The complex body geometry of door closers makes uniform plating difficult and expensive. Industry convention specifies closers in painted finishes that complement the lockset finish. LCN 4040XP codes: 689 painted aluminum (pairs with US26D and US28 hardware), 690 or 691 painted bronze (pairs with US10B and dark bronze trim). When specifying a complete opening, select the closer painted finish to complement the lockset and exit device finish, not to match it exactly.
How do I match finishes across different hardware types in a complete door opening?
All visible hardware in a complete opening should match in finish. Most manufacturers offer US32D and US26D across locks, exit devices, and hinges, making these the easiest finishes to coordinate. Match the door closer painted finish to the hardware: 689 aluminum for chrome or stainless hardware, 690/691 bronze for bronze hardware. For Von Duprin exit devices in aluminum storefront applications, US28/628 (satin aluminum) coordinates with aluminum frame and door construction. Call 845-935-0301 to confirm finish availability across multiple hardware types before finalizing a project order.