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The Finishing Touch

Explore Coastal’s Five Finishes and How to Maintain Them

Written by Lucy Thornton ,
Published on May 2nd, 2025
The Finishing Touch: Explore Coastal’s Five Finishes and How to Maintain Them

Your door and window hardware is more than just functional – it should look good too.

That’s why Coastal offers a carefully curated range of five finishes, each crafted to enhance your property’s design and stand the test of time.

Whether you prefer timeless polish, modern matt, or rich brass tones, our finishes are all applied to premium 316 marine-grade stainless steel for unmatched durability and corrosion resistance.

In this article, we’ll explore how each finish is achieved, how to care for it, and where it looks best, helping you find the perfect style for your next project.

Satin Stainless Steel

Our satin stainless steel finish is created using a careful linishing process, where multiple abrasives – starting coarse and finishing ultra-fine — are used to give the steel its soft, brushed texture.

The result? A smooth, silky surface with a beautiful satin sheen.

While 316 marine-grade stainless steel is exceptionally durable, it still requires basic upkeep. Without maintenance, tea-staining – a cosmetic discolouration on the metal – may occur, especially on building sites or in coastal locations.

To prevent this, protect hardware during construction and clean regularly using Coastal’s DR121 cleaner and a soft cloth. Always wipe with the grain to maintain that flawless finish.

Satin stainless steel complements almost every colour, but we particularly love it paired with earthy, calming tones – think muted greens, soft greys, warm browns, and pale creams.

PVD Satin Brass

Our PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) Satin Brass finish begins with our trusted 316 stainless steel base. It’s brushed to a smooth, tactile finish before being coated in a durable PVD layer to achieve the trademark soft, golden tone.

This finish offers the warmth of traditional brass but with modern performance.

It is resistant to fingerprints, less prone to tarnishing, and ideal for both contemporary and heritage-style homes. As with all stainless steel hardware, tea-staining is a possibility if left uncared for, so regular cleaning with mild soapy water and a soft cloth is key.

PVD Satin Brass pairs beautifully with pastel palettes, blush pinks, and neutrals, perfect for creating an inviting yet refined entrance.

Polished Stainless Steel

If you’re after a clean, reflective look, our polished stainless steel finish is for you. The surface is polished to a high gloss, offering a sleek and contemporary feel with standout shine.

It’s also the best-performing finish in coastal environments, making it ideal for seaside homes or exposed areas. Like other stainless finishes, tea-staining can occur if neglected, but it’s easy to avoid with regular care.

Use Coastal’s Blu Renovation Kit (DR121 cleaner) to keep the surface pristine, always wiping in line with the polished grain.

Polished stainless steel pairs beautifully with crisp whites and cool blues, creating a sharp, modern contrast for your front door.

PVD Polished Brass

For those who love the high-shine look of traditional brass, our PVD Polished Brass delivers just that, with all the benefits of marine-grade stainless steel.

The steel is polished to a mirror finish and then coated with a protective PVD layer for extra durability.

This polished brass finish is a favourite for period-style properties, adding a touch of grandeur and timeless charm. It’s also a smart choice in harsh coastal environments, where polished finishes offer maximum resistance to corrosion.

To care for it, simply use mild soapy water and a soft cloth, drying thoroughly. Avoid abrasive materials and always clean in the direction of the brushed lines.

Pair PVD Polished Brass with rich, dark hues like forest green or navy blue for a bold and elegant look.

Matt Black Lacquer

Our matt black lacquer finish brings a strong design statement to any space. Built on the same solid 316 stainless steel foundation, this finish is coated with a durable matt black lacquer that resists fading and scratches.

It’s a versatile option for both traditional and contemporary designs, adding a modern edge while still maintaining timeless appeal. To keep it looking fresh, just clean with soapy water and a soft cloth, no harsh chemicals needed.

We love how matt black pops against warm neutrals and natural textures, creating an entrance that’s both bold and inviting.

Final Thoughts

No matter your style or location, there’s a Coastal finish to suit your needs. From the golden glow of satin brass to the bold simplicity of matt black, our range is designed to deliver beauty, performance and longevity in equal measure.

Need help choosing the perfect finish? Our team is always happy to help – just get in touch.

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