Stainless steel is one of the most corrosion resistant metals used in exterior construction applications. It’s stronger than aluminum, contains very little iron and comes in many grades. Type 316 stainless is used in high profile projects for the food, marine and aviation industries . So why should anyone powder coat stainless steel if it’s such a durable material? The answer boils down to aesthetic preferences, environments and exposure.
How to know when you need extra protection against the elements
If you live outside of the coastal zone and have no exposure to salt air; stainless steel railings will virtually last forever. Rain and other fresh water sources like dew or lakeside conditions are really no match for the durability of stainless. UV exposure poses little risk to the longevity and finish without salt as a contaminant. The real culprit for damage to stainless steel railings is contamination. One major reason to powder coat your stainless steel railings is extra protection against contamination.
Contamination comes from the reaction of surface residue with the metal itself. Whether it be from sources that collect on the the railings or by leaving traces of dissimilar metals or environmental sources. Typically if the railing surfaces are kept clean and regularly maintained; there is little to no residual damage from contamination. However if environmental contaminants like salt, chemicals or airborne residue from metro areas is left for long periods of time; they will eventually pit and corrode ANY industrial metal material. Listed below are some examples some possible contaminants:
- salt spray/coastal air and moisture residue
- airborne soot particles
- dust and dirt buildup from plants and trees
- hard water from sprinklers or overspray from neighbors
- non-approved caustic cleaners that may have been used to in an attempt to remove dirt and grime
Powder Coating Stainless Steel Railings for Looks
If you want a black railing and you live in a coastal area then black powder coated stainless steel is probably an easy selection. The same follows for white or just about any other color on the spectrum. Powder coating comes in more colors than you can count and is also available in metallics. Custom powder comes in vein finishes, fluorescent shades, specialty coatings with textures, and architectural grade products. If you want a powder that looks like stainless; metallic finishes are almost an exact match to bare stainless steel. Some of our customers actually prefer the coated aesthetic to the bare finish.
Coating for Durability
Salt environments and their effect on steel can test even the toughest of materials and highest grades. Corrosion in a salt air environment boils down to the thickness and resistance of the metal vs the corrosive properties of the contaminant and how long it will take to “eat” through the material. Type 316 stainless steel can last 30 years in these environments by itself, but when we add protective coatings it can extend the life and the beauty of the product. Powder coating can also make maintaining your railings easier and provide the ability for re-coating down the road to keep them looking new longer. Wiping down a coated surface makes cleaning a breeze and certain colors can hide dirt and grime.
San Diego Cable Railings offers powder coated stainless steel cable railings and glass railing systems for commercial and residential applications. If you have questions about the most durable options for your railing system, give us a call or visit the quote request page.
