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Lifetime brass finish

I am a remodeling contractor. I am trying to find out if a "lifetime" brass finish matches a polished brass finish in appearance. I have been told they both look the same and also that they look different. I have not been able to obtain a sample of the lifetime finish to confirm for myself. Thanks for your help.

Mark Parker
- League City, Texas
2003

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I would say that lifetime finishes can match brass closely in color, but whether the texture matches depends on what texture is selected in each case. "Lifetime" brass is not a specification or even a particular product; it's a word used in trademarks and trade names. It is either (most likely) zirconium nitride sputtered onto electroplated nickel, or it is brass toned electrophoretic lacquer electrocoated onto electroplated nickel. You'll see "lifetime" brass finishes on both plumbing fixtures and door hardware.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

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I can probably help. If your question is related to locks, the two together is not a good idea. Trying to fit these two will result in good intentions (saving the customer money) that will make you look like the 'bad guy'. For example, a polished brass lever handle against a 'lifetime finish' plate. The lifetime finish will have a slightly darker yellow.
If it refers to a Baldwin light fixture, there won't be a problem. As far as plumbing fixtures go, that is not my area. Hope this helps. In a nutshell-don't do it!

tom schulte
- aiken, South Carolina, usa
November 13, 2010