Bathroom Hardware Materials & Finishes Explained: What to Choose and Why
When it comes to selecting bathroom hardware for a hotel or multi-family project, it’s not just about how a towel bar or grab bar looks—it’s about how it performs, how long it lasts, and whether it aligns with your project’s budget.
At Kordex, after many years of working with contractors, architects, and developers, we’ve learned one thing clearly: choosing the right material and finish from the start can make or break your project’s performance and cost efficiency.
Here’s a breakdown we often share with our customers—plain, honest, and practical.
Choosing the Right Material: Stainless Steel vs Zinc Alloy
| Material | Key Strengths | Best Use Cases | Cost Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stainless Steel (304) | Excellent corrosion resistance, strong, long lifespan | Public buildings, hotels, high-end residential | Mid to High |
| Zinc Alloy | Affordable, easier to mold into complex shapes | Cost-sensitive projects, decorative hardware | Budget-Friendly |
Our take:
If your priority is longevity and reliability, especially in humid or high-traffic environments, 304 stainless steel is worth the investment.
If the project has a tight budget, or you're aiming for unique shapes and styles, zinc alloy offers flexibility without compromising basic performance.
Finish Types: Appearance, Durability & Application
The finish you choose affects how the product looks, how it feels, and how long it keeps looking that way.
| Finish Type | Description / Craftsmanship | Appearance & Texture | Suitable Materials |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chrome Plating | Glossy, classic, easy to clean | Shiny, mirror-like surface | Zinc alloy, stainless steel |
| Brushed Nickel | Matte texture, resists fingerprints | Subtle lines, premium look | Zinc alloy, stainless steel |
| Satin Stainless (SS) | Natural brushed finish of the metal itself | Soft matte, industrial elegance | Stainless steel only |
| Powder Coating | Durable coating with customizable colors | White, matte black, gunmetal grey | Both |
| PVD Coating | High-end finish, scratch-resistant, long-lasting | Gold, rose gold, gunmetal | Stainless steel, zinc alloy |
Common Preferences by Project Type
High-end hotel suites: PVD gold on stainless steel or brushed nickel for upscale touch
Mid-range hotels and residential projects: Brushed stainless or powder-coated matte black—durable yet visually appealing
Budget-sensitive projects: Chrome plating on zinc alloy—cost-effective with a classic appearance
How Finish + Material Impacts Cost
304 Stainless Steel + PVD Gold Finish = Premium combo, highest durability, luxury image
304 Stainless Steel + Polished Chrome = Classic shine with lasting value
304 Stainless Steel + Brushed Finish = Sleek, clean, minimal—and cost-efficient
Zinc Alloy + Chrome = Practical and affordable for large-scale renovations or quick-turn projects
What Kordex Offers
At Kordex, we offer both 304 stainless steel and zinc alloy options across our full line of bathroom hardware: towel bars, hooks, toilet paper holders, grab bars, and more.
You can choose from:
Chrome, brushed nickel, satin stainless, matte black, white, and more
Custom finishes for specific project needs
Finish/material suggestions based on project type, location, and budget
We’ve helped over 200 projects across North America make the right call—and avoid costly mistakes.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right material and finish isn’t just about style. It directly affects:
Durability
Installation experience
Maintenance requirements
Client satisfaction
Long-term cost
At Kordex, we help you balance functionality, visual appeal, and cost—so your project gets it right the first time.
Have a project coming up?
We’d be happy to offer recommendations or quote multiple options side-by-side.
Talk to a Kordex specialist today
