That “button shine” is the bane of every design-conscious person’s existence, I swear. I’ve specified brushed metal keypads for clients before and, yeah, they look fantastic in the showroom... but in real life, it’s a constant battle with fingerprints and streaks. The glass ones are definitely sleeker and easier to keep looking new, though I totally get what you mean about missing the tactile feedback. There’s something satisfying about a good clicky button. Still, I’ll take a smooth glass surface over a keypad that looks like it’s been through a decade of pizza nights.
I totally get the struggle with keeping those brushed metal keypads looking decent. I once installed one for a client who was all about that industrial vibe, but within a week, it looked like a crime scene of fingerprints. Honestly, I’m torn—glass is easier to wipe down, but I do worry about smudges showing up even more in certain lighting. Plus, I kind of miss the reassurance of a physical button press... maybe that’s just me being old school. Still, from a maintenance standpoint, glass wins out most days.
I once installed one for a client who was all about that industrial vibe, but within a week, it looked like a crime scene of fingerprints.
I hear you on the fingerprints—my old house still has the original brass hardware, and I swear it hides grime better than any modern finish. When I finally gave in and put a keyless entry on the back door, I went with a matte black keypad. It’s not as “industrial chic” as brushed metal, but it hides smudges way better. I do miss the clicky feel of the old buttons, though. There’s something about that tactile feedback that just feels right, especially in a house with so much history. Still, I have to admit, wiping down the glass is a breeze compared to polishing brass every week.
I do miss the clicky feel of the old buttons, though. There’s something about that tactile feedback that just feels right, especially in a house with so much history.
Totally get this—there’s just something satisfying about a chunky old lock. I went with a satin nickel keypad because it was on sale, but man, the smudge situation is real. My “cleaning routine” is basically: 1) notice fingerprints, 2) wipe with shirt sleeve, 3) repeat next day. At least I’m saving on brass polish...
I hear you about the fingerprints—my brushed nickel keypad is basically a magnet for every smudge and greasy thumbprint in the house. I tried those little microfiber cloths, but honestly, they just disappear after a week or two. What’s worked best for me is keeping a pack of alcohol wipes in the junk drawer near the door. Once a week (or whenever I remember), I just give it a quick swipe. It’s not perfect, but it keeps things looking less grimy.
I do kind of miss the old-school feel, too. There’s something reassuring about that heavy “clunk” when you turn a real key. The beeps and soft clicks aren’t quite the same, but not having to dig for keys in the rain is worth it for me.
If you’re worried about smudges giving away your code, some folks suggest changing up which fingers you use or just wiping it down every so often. Not exactly high-tech, but it works well enough for now...
