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Style Guide: Door Hardware Finishes


entry door

When choosing new doors, selecting door hardware and accessories will play an essential role in the overall look. Hardware comes in many finishes, and selecting one to match your decor can be challenging. Here are some style options for door hardware finishes, plus tips for choosing one.


Types Of Finishes

When choosing your hardware colour, you can select from brass, nickel, bronze, chrome or copper. But the type of finish – not only the colour – can dramatically affect the look of your door. Here are some of the finish types available.

  • Polished finishes. Polished hardware is shiny and highly reflective, so it can brighten any room. That’s why it’s a popular choice for bathroom hardware. Just be aware that fingerprints are highly visible on a polished finish.

  • Brushed or satin finishes. Brushed or satin finishes are softer than polished finishes. They undergo a brushing process to give the metal a textured look. These finishes hide fingerprints well.

  • Living finishes. Without a protective coating, some metals oxidize and change colour over time, giving your room character and uniqueness. Brass, bronze and copper can be used to give your door hardware a living finish.

  • PDV or lifetime finishes. An excellent choice for exterior doors, lifetime finishes have a durable coating that withstands UV rays, rain and salty air. The ultra-thin but extremely strong layer requires little maintenance.


Make The Right Choice

Door hardware colour and finish may seem like minor details, but they make a huge impact. Here are some things to consider.

  • Make a statement. If you want a door that stands out, pick a colour that contrasts with the door. Alternatively, choose colours similar in tone for a more subtle, elegant look.

  • Consider the “temperature” of the tones. Feel free to mix and match colours, but avoid using cool and warm tones together, as they can clash.

  • Select a classic combo. If you’d rather eliminate the guesswork, here are some tried-and-true pairings:

- satin brass and black

- satin brass and bronze

- satin nickel and polished nickel

- antique brass and bronze

- antique nickel and black


A door expert can guide you through your options and help you choose the best door hardware for your home.


Doors in Edmonton, Grande Prairie and Northwestern Canada

All-West Glass is a glass company company serving residential and commercial customers throughout northwest Canada. We sell and install doors and carry an extensive line of hardware and accessories in various finishes. We invite you to explore our selection at one of 18 locations in northwest Canada, including Edmonton and Grande Prairie. Contact us today to speak with a door expert.

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