Normally, finish deterioration is due to years of wear and tear, abuse or chemical attack. The finish cannot be repaired once damaged; however, you can replace many of common faucet parts where the finish deterioration is most noticeable.

To determine the parts you need, contact your Delta plumber or showroom. You can e-mail us for assistance, or call 1-800-345-DELTA (3358).

Traditional Polished Brass finishes were coated with a clear coating to inhibit tarnish. Over time, this clear coat can be broken or scratched with regular wear and tear, abuse or chemical attack, causing the finish to tarnish or the coating to peel. Unfortunately, it's not possible to repair the clear coat so you will need to replace any parts of your faucet that are tarnished or badly scratched.

Pin holes in a Delta faucet spout are usually caused by "dezincification," which is the removal of zinc from the brass due to salt solutions, brackish water, mildly acidic solutions and poorly grounded plumbing systems. When the zinc is removed, the copper is redeposited to these areas and the surface of the part. The redeposited copper is a weak mass that is porous and fragile.

Delta's Brilliance^® finishes are more durable than traditional clear coating. These beautiful finishes, which give your home an instant decorator look, won't corrode, tarnish or discolor. They are designed to look like new for life. The finish was tested against more than 100 common household cleaners. Brilliance will even withstand prolonged exposure to hard water or sea air.

Brilliance^® finishes, designed to not corrode, tarnish or discolor for a “like-new” look for life, are developed by embedding molecules deep into the faucet’s surface, creating a bond that is virtually indestructible with an incredibly reflective shine. This process is known as Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD). Delta Faucet Company was the first manufacturer to offer this patented process. Brilliance resists abrasions and discoloration better than traditional special finishes and, in many cases, better than chrome.

Many stores can order Delta^® faucets that are not stocked or displayed in the store. Ask the plumbing department manager or store manager for assistance with Delta special orders.

You also can preview a large assortment of Delta models in many finishes in the Online Catalog.

In most cases, the finish is safe if you follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and make sure the drain cleaner isn’t left on the finish for longer than 30 minutes.