Door Hardware Finish Codes (BHMA / US) Explained
Door hardware finishes are described by a standardized code so the same color and coating can be specified across brands. The dominant system is the BHMA/ANSI A156.18 code (a three-digit number such as 626), which supersedes the older US code (US26D). This guide explains how to read the codes, lists the finishes you will see most often on sliding, barn and pocket door hardware, and notes what actually differs between them.
How the codes work
Most cut sheets list two codes side by side, for example US26D / 626:
- US code (e.g. US26D) — the traditional Builders Hardware convention: a base material/color number, sometimes with a letter for sheen (D = dull/satin, no letter = bright/polished).
- BHMA code (e.g. 626) — the current ANSI/BHMA A156.18 three-digit equivalent. The first digit encodes the base metal, the rest the color and finish.
The code specifies appearance, not necessarily durability — two products can share a 626 code but differ in coating quality. For high-traffic and exterior openings, also check the finish's BHMA performance rating.
Common finishes on sliding, barn & pocket hardware
| US code | BHMA | Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| US26D | 626 | Satin Chrome | Muted silver; the commercial default |
| US26 | 625 | Polished Chrome | Bright mirror silver |
| US32D | 630 | Satin Stainless Steel | Brushed; best corrosion resistance — wet/coastal areas |
| US32 | 629 | Polished Stainless Steel | Bright stainless |
| US15 | 619 | Satin Nickel | Warm brushed silver |
| US10B | 613 | Oil-Rubbed Bronze | Dark, living finish that patinas over time |
| US5 | 609 | Antique Brass | Aged warm gold |
| US4 | 606 | Satin Brass | Brushed warm gold |
| US3 | 605 | Polished Brass | Bright gold; usually lacquered |
| US19 | 622 | Matte Black | Flat black; the most popular modern barn-door look |
Choosing a finish for the project
- Match by code, not by name. Brand finish names vary ("Venetian Bronze", "Iron Black"), but the BHMA code is comparable across manufacturers — specify it on the schedule.
- Wet, coastal or high-touch openings: favor satin stainless (630) for corrosion resistance — see the stainless steel collection.
- Living finishes (oil-rubbed bronze 613) change appearance with wear; specify consistently and set expectations with the client.
- Coordinating an order: confirm every item on an opening shares the same code, since tracks, pulls and locks are often made by different manufacturers.
Browse by finish: oil-rubbed & dark bronze, satin nickel, brass, matte black, and stainless steel. For weight and duty selection, see the commercial specification guide.