Stainless Steel Maintenance

Stainless steel is a low maintenance material but not maintenance free. Below we've outlined some common issues with stainless steel along with solutions to help ensure your stainless steel lasts the test of time. 

Wash the surface of your stainless steel with warm water and soft cloth. Then use a mild dishwashing liquid and warm water to clean tougher stains and dirt. Use a stainless steel cleaner to remove stains if needed, but always read the directions and test a small spot on the mesh first. 

Below is a recommended cleaning schedule for stainless steels which are being used externally;

 Environment               Grade 304               Grade 316 

     Clean Inland                 3 – 6 months            6 -12 months 

     Polluted Urban              Not Suitable             6 -12 months 

    Coastal/Marine              Not Suitable             3 - 6 months 

 Electropolishing stainless steel is a process that uses an electrochemical solution to remove the outer skin of a metal part. By stripping away a uniform layer of surface material, the electropolishing process also removes embedded contaminants, heat tint and oxide scale, burrs, micro cracks, pits, and other surface imperfections that can compromise the performance and longevity of stainless steel.

Electropolishing stainless steel significantly improves corrosion resistance while leaving it with a beautiful bright finish. Electropolishing can be performed on all varieties of stainless steel and provides superior corrosion resistance.

 Tea staining is discolouration of the surface of stainless steel by corrosion. It is a cosmetic issue that does not affect the structural integrity or the life of the stainless steel mesh. Tea staining occurs most commonly within 5km of the coastline although you can also experience Tea Staining in more urban areas which are exposed to higher levels of pollution. Electropolishing is a great preventative measure to help reduce Tea Staining.

For more information on tea staining please visit Australian Stainless Steel Development Association  -  Preventing Coastal Corrosion