Galvanised Handrails

So, you are installing new handrails on your property. The important role that handrails play means that your decision is likely not one that you take lightly. You will need your handrails to be strong, durable, and require little to no maintenance. If this is the case, as it should be, then galvanized handrails should be on the top of the list of contenders. This durable material ensures that you will have little to no issue with corrosion and that your stairwell will be safe from falls due to poor quality handrails. Let’s take a look at why you should choose galvanized handrails for your staircase!

What is galvanizing? 

Galvanization is the process of coating a metal surface, typically stainless steel, to prolong its lifespan. When metal is galvanized, it is cleaned to its base layers and then dipped in molten zinc. The zinc applied bonds to the material and essentially provides an additional, protective coat that prevents scratching and rusting. Zinc wears at an incredibly slow rate, which means that when a metal is galvanized, it will last considerably longer than its original lifespan. Galvanization not only protects the exterior of a product but the interior too, as the molten zinc creates a seal between the interior and external factors.

How long does galvanizing last?

This is something that we get asked a lot, though it is not always an easy question to answer. The thickness of the zinc coat that is applied to the material will play a significant role in its lifespan. Materials placed in areas where it would be at heightened risk of rust, such as poolside or oceanfront areas, would require thicker coatings. Surfaces exposed to high volumes of dissolved copper (produced by copper or brass) will also wear at a quicker rate than surfaces that are not exposed to this kind of corrosion. In essence, your galvanized handrail should last thirty-four years at the minimum and, in ideal conditions, can last up to one-hundred and seventy years!

Why galvanized handrails?

Handrails, as the name suggests, have a lot of hands touch them throughout the day. It is important, when installing new handrails, that you plan for the many corrosive materials that it will come into contact with. One way to ensure that your handrails last for generations is to have galvanized handrails installed. They require little to no maintenance and are easy to clean. Galvanized handrails are also a smart investment, as the low cost of maintenance and replacement (practically non-existent) means that your initial investment is your only investment.

Cleaning and maintaining your galvanized handrails

When it comes to cleaning and maintaining your galvanized handrails, the task could not be simpler. As aforementioned, handrails see a lot of traffic and are exposed to many external factors. That said, cleaning and maintenance can be done with simple household soap and a microfiber cloth. Any dirt or stains that do not wipe away immediately should be professionally cleaned to avoid discoloration, though this is not common.