Faucet finishes compared: chrome, nickel, black and brass

Finish is the first thing people choose and the one they live with longest. Here is how the popular finishes really hold up in a busy New Hampshire kitchen or bath, including with hard well water.

Polished chrome

The most durable and the easiest to match across brands, and usually the least expensive. The catch: it shows every water spot and fingerprint, especially with hard water.

Brushed nickel and stainless

A soft satin look that hides water spots and fingerprints better than anything shiny. Brushed nickel is warm; stainless is cooler and matches stainless appliances. Shades vary by brand, so buy matching pieces from one line where you can.

Polished nickel

Warmer and richer than chrome, a classic in traditional baths. It shows spots like chrome does and usually costs more.

Matte black

Bold and modern. Look for a PVD (physical vapor deposition) finish; painted or powder-coated black can scratch and show white mineral spots from hard water. Wipe it dry and skip abrasive cleaners.

Brass and gold

Brushed brass is warm and on trend; with a PVD finish it resists tarnish. Unlacquered (living) brass darkens and changes over time on purpose, a patina some people love and others do not.

Bronze

Oil-rubbed and similar bronzes are dark and warm, with highlights that wear in where hands touch. Great in farmhouse and traditional rooms.

Matching tips

You do not have to match every metal. A good rule is one main finish for the plumbing and one accent (like black or brass) for lighting or hardware. Keep the faucet, shower trim and towel bars in one finish from one brand, since shades vary between manufacturers.

Common questions

What faucet finish is easiest to keep clean?

Brushed finishes like brushed nickel and stainless; they hide water spots and fingerprints.

Does matte black scratch?

PVD matte black is very scratch resistant. Painted or powder-coated black can scratch and shows mineral spots.

What is PVD?

Physical vapor deposition: a thin, very hard finish bonded to the metal. It is more durable than plating or paint.