Specifying
Door hardware finishes: BHMA codes and US equivalents
By the Div08 Consulting team · Updated
Door hardware finishes are specified by BHMA code under ANSI/BHMA A156.18. The most common commercial finish, 626, is satin chromium plated, which is the same finish as the older US26D designation. 630 (US32D) is satin stainless steel, and 652 is satin chromium plated on a steel base, often used for hinges to match 626.
BHMA codes vs US codes
Two numbering systems are in use. The BHMA codes (three digit numbers like 626 and 630) come from ANSI/BHMA A156.18, the finish standard for builders hardware. The older US codes (US26D, US32D, US10B) predate it and are still widely used in catalogs and in the field.
The BHMA system is more precise because it also identifies the base material. 626 and 652 can both be called US26D, but one is plated on brass or bronze and the other on steel. Specs should use BHMA numbers and can add the US code in parentheses for readability.
Door hardware finish code chart
| BHMA | US code | Finish | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 626 | US26D | Satin chromium plated (brass or bronze base) | Locks, levers, exit device trim; the default commercial finish |
| 652 | US26D | Satin chromium plated (steel base) | Steel butt hinges, matched to 626 |
| 630 | US32D | Satin stainless steel | Hinges, protection plates, pulls, push plates |
| 625 | US26 | Bright chromium plated | Where a polished look is wanted |
| 605 | US3 | Bright brass, clear coated | Traditional and residential style projects |
| 612 | US10 | Satin bronze, clear coated | Warm toned interiors |
| 613 | US10B | Oil rubbed bronze (dark oxidized satin bronze) | Dark finishes, hospitality, residential |
| 619 | US15 | Satin nickel plated | Residential and light commercial |
| 622 | US19 | Flat black coated | Modern interiors, black hardware packages |
Closers are usually supplied with a painted finish rather than a plated one, commonly aluminum or a color matched to the other hardware. Exit device rails and closer covers often come in finishes that only approximate the plated trim, so expect small differences.
What US26D and 626 mean
US26D and 626 are the same finish: a satin (brushed) chromium plating that is durable, hides fingerprints reasonably well and matches across almost every manufacturer. That is why it is the default on most commercial jobs.
630 (US32D) looks similar but is solid stainless steel rather than plating, so it cannot wear through to a base metal. It is common for hinges, pulls and plates in heavy use or wet areas. Many projects mix 626 locks with 630 hinges and plates, and the two read as one finish from a normal distance.
Spec tip
if the hinges are steel, specify 652, not 626. A 626 hinge implies a brass or bronze base, which is a different and more expensive product. Most hinge catalogs list 652 as the match for 626.
Keeping finishes consistent across manufacturers
A single opening can carry products from four or five manufacturers: hinges, lock, closer, stop and plates. Even with the same BHMA code, tone and sheen vary slightly between them. To keep a project consistent:
- Name one finish per item in each hardware set, using BHMA numbers.
- Set a project rule in 08 71 00, for example 626 for plated items, 630 for stainless items, 652 for steel hinges, and the closer finish to match.
- For dark or specialty finishes (613, 622), ask for samples. Oil rubbed and black finishes vary the most between brands.
- Check that every item is actually available in the finish chosen. Some exit devices, closers and electrified items have limited finish options, which can delay an order.
Frequently asked questions
Is 626 the same as US26D?
Yes. 626 is the BHMA code for satin chromium plated on a brass or bronze base, which is what US26D describes. 652 is the same look on a steel base.
What is the difference between 626 and 630?
626 is chrome plating over a base metal; 630 is solid satin stainless steel. They look very close. 630 is more durable because there is no plating to wear through.
What finish is US10B?
US10B is oil rubbed bronze, BHMA 613: a dark oxidized satin bronze finish that is designed to darken and wear with use.
What standard defines door hardware finishes?
ANSI/BHMA A156.18, Materials and Finishes, which assigns the three digit BHMA finish codes.
General guidance only. Code requirements depend on the edition your jurisdiction has adopted and on the listing of each fire-rated assembly; confirm with the authority having jurisdiction. Published by Div08 Consulting (John Voll, owner).