Satin Nickel is a very popular finish for door knobs, handlesets, and other door hardware. Satin nickel is a common choice because it is fairly easy to match up with lighting fixtures and other home hardware, yet it's not as bright as polished brasses or chromes.

Satin Nickel is generally pretty consistent from brand to brand, but it still can vary somewhat. For example, if you are installing a Kwikset Door Knob with a deadbolt above, we'd recommend using the matching Kwikset Deadbolt rather than using another brand that may not be an exact finish match.

More About the Satin Nickel Door Hardware Finish

Satin Nickel (also known as finish code US15) is a plated finish over top of whatever base material is used by the manufacturer. Most major brands use a zinc alloy metal or solid brass for a base material which is plated with the satin nickel finish. Afterwards a lacquer coat is applied to protect the finish. Satin nickel is similar in hue to a stainless steel, but you really don't see any brush strokes or the raw metal appearance that you see in Stainless steel. Satin Nickel has more of a light silver color with a very smooth surface.

Like any other door hardware finish, it is important to clean satin nickel only with warm water and or a very mild soap. Chemicals often used around the house for cleaning can damage the lacquer finish and will void any finish warranty provided by the door hardware manufacturer.