If you are looking to install handrails in your home or office, consider stainless steel as your material. Stainless steel handrails can be sleek and modern, or timeless and traditional; it all depends on your design aesthetic. Stainless steel is a sturdy material that is stronger than many others, including wood. It is also cost-effective in the long run, as it does not require intensive maintenance over time. Let’s discuss how to properly maintain your stainless steel handrails so that they do not rust and so they look as good as possible at all times.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Stainless Steel Handrails
Whether your stainless steel handrails are installed inside or outside, Hercules Fence Custom Iron wants to make sure that you are equipped with the right information for their maintenance. Since outdoor stainless steel handrails are exposed to wet conditions, you will have to clean them frequently to reduce the chances of rust. Brown spots can develop because they will encounter salt from ocean air, particulates from environmental pollution, spray from winter road salts, or even smog from car exhaust fumes. To prevent the accumulation of unsightly residue or rust, we suggest that you clean your outdoor stainless steel handrails every three to six months.
Compared to outdoor stainless steel railings, indoor stainless steel railings require little maintenance and cleaning. What this means is that you should clean your indoor railings about as often as you clean your other stainless steel surfaces: every six to twelve months.
Prevent and Eliminate Water Marks
Water stains are the leading cause of making your stainless steel handrails look less than perfect. Use distilled water to lightly clean your stainless steel and absorb water residue with old newspaper.
Polishing Them
If you want to maintain the gloss and shine of your stainless steel handrails, you can use a polishing cleanser in place of soap and distilled water. These cleaners leave your handrails shining while keeping new marks from ruining the look of the stainless steel. It also inhibits discoloration as it works.
Remove Pesky Spots
If your handrails show signs of rust, grease, or oil stains, you can use solvents such as acetone or ethanol to wipe the surfaces clean. These solvents cut through grease and oil just by rubbing with a soft, dry cloth. However, if you need to get rid of paint or graffitti, then you should use soda solutions or paint removers on your stainless steel handrails. Be sure that you never use scrapers or knives, as you will scratch and damage the metal underneath.
CHOOSE HERCULES CUSTOM IRON
Whether you would like stainless steel rails or your aluminum fence to be repaired, replaced, or would like an iron fence (period!), the pros at Hercules Custom Iron are ready to help. For more information and to learn how we can meet your custom fencing needs, contact Hercules Custom Iron online or giving us a call at 1-800-331-2590. We will ensure your investment serves your family for years to come! For updates and to see projects we’re working on, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Google+, and Pinterest.