How to maintain and clean your stainless steel balustrades

If you have recently purchased and installed one of our stainless steel balustrades or if you are thinking of installing a new glass balustrade system, you need to ensure you are familiar with the recommended upkeep and maintenance routine.

We have created a helpful guide below with information on how to easily maintain and clean your SHS stainless-steel balustrade:

Preventing rust on your stainless steel

Most of our balustrade systems, for example, the Professional, Wire Rope, Square Tube and Elegance system, are made from stainless steel. Stainless steel is a steel alloy that is resistant to rust and tarnishing.

However, it is not 100 per cent rust, stain, or corrosion-proof, and therefore still requires general cleaning and maintenance. This also applies to our products that are made from aluminium.

 It is vital to let us know us where the balustrade system is going to be placed and what the conditions are like in that location. That way we can offer you advice based on your situation.

Finishes are important

Our mirror finish contains fewer grains for dirt particles to collect in, and therefore is fantastic for any environment with a high risk of corrosion. Highly corrosive areas include those within ten miles from the coast and high humidity areas, such as indoor swimming pools.

But please keep in mind that even though our mirror polish is more resistant to corrosion, it is still best to keep it clean.

Our recommended cleaning methods:

Routine cleaning of light soiling: Use soap, detergent or dilute (1%) ammonia solution in warm, clean water. Apply with a clean sponge, soft cloth or soft-fibre brush and then rinse in clean water before drying.

Fingerprints: Detergent and warm water. Alternatively, you can use hydrocarbon solvents.

Oil and grease marks: Hydrocarbon solvents (methylated spirit, isopropyl alcohol, or acetone)

Stubborn spots, stains, and light discolouration watermarking and light rust staining: Mild, non-scratching creams and polishes. Apply with a soft cloth or soft sponge and rinse off residues with clean water before drying.

Localised rust stains caused by carbon steel contamination: Propriety gels or 10% phosphoric acid solution (followed by ammonia and water rinses). Alternatively, use the oxalic acid solution followed by a water rinse.

*All our products come with a 12-month warranty that states your balustrades will remain free from material defects. However, regular cleaning helps keep your system looking brand new for a long time after that!

For more information on maintaining balustrades please call us on or use our online contact form.