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    Steel Finish Options

    For all products containing steel components we offer 4 finish options, galvanising, polyester powder coating, a combination of both galvanising and PPC, and our signature Triple Process coating.

    Mild Steel Finish Options

    We've mapped out the main performance, visual characteristics, and pros/cons of each one in our chart below to help you choose the right finish options for your project. But feel free to get in touch should you have any questions.

    GalvanisingPPC on Bare SteelGalvanising + PPC
    AestheticsMetallic / industrial, variable surface quality High quality smooth surface finishVariable quality surface finish
    Corrosion ResistanceHighMediumHigh
    DurabilityHighHighMedium
    Surface Quality MediumHighMedium
    CostMediumLowHigh
    Ease of Repair

    Small areas of damage will self-heal

    Larger areas can be over-painted with a zinc-rich paint application

    		If base metal is exposed, coating needs to be repaired before corrosion sets inIt is unlikely that galvanising will be damaged and corrosion should not occur, so repairs can be undertaken at any time
    Main AdvantagesLongevity/minimal maintenanceCompatible with stainless fixingsCompatible with stainless fixings
    Points to Consider

    Generally a less smooth and potentially variable quality surface finish

    Welds become visually prominent

    Only compatible with BZP fixings which have shorter life than stainless

    		Corrosion of steel can set in if PPC coating is penetrated and not repaired quickly

    Blemishes in galvanising can show through on PPC and potential for gassing reaction on PPC

    PPC is more vulnerable to chipping than on bare steel

    Best suited to

    Tubular / products with internal cavities

    Products with root sections that are fixed in-ground

    Aggressive environments

    Low maintenance sites

    Where a high quality surface finish is more important than long term durability

    Well managed sites where products are less likely to suffer damage

    Less aggressive environments

    Where long term performance and (overall) aesthetic are equally important

    Aggressive environments

    Not Suited toLightweight &/or heavily welded fabrications vulnerable to distortion

    Tubular / products with internal cavities

    Products with root sections that are fixed in-ground

    		Lightweight fabrications vulnerable to distortion
    Zenith removable bollard in public realm scheme

    Maintenance

    Galvanising

    A galvanised finish does not generally require any specific maintenance in normal situations. Minor areas of damage through general wear and tear do not necessarily need repairing as the sacrificial action of zinc means that corrosion protection is not compromised. For more extensive damage, a zinc rich paint can be used to repair.

    Zenith removable bollard in public realm scheme

    Maintenance

    Polyester Powder Coating (PPC)

    For powder coated finishes it is important that the coating is cleaned regularly using a solution of mild detergent in warm water in order to retain the aesthetic qualities and the expected long term durability. Surfaces should be cleaned using a soft cloth, sponge or a natural bristle brush, avoiding abrasive materials that may damage the coating. The frequency of cleaning depends upon the environment in which the products are placed but as a general guide an annual clean will suffice in most urban environments. In areas of high pollution, such as marine and swimming pool environments, cleaning should be carried out on a monthly basis.

    Localised damage to powder coated finishes can generally be successfully repaired. The exact techniques depend on the nature and extent of the damage but all typically involve the following processes:

    • Clean the surface with a solvent-based degreaser
    • Locally abrade the area to be re-coated with an abrasive paper and wipe clean
    • Application of a thin coat of suitable primer
    • Application of suitable top coat(s), matched to shade and gloss level of original coating by brush or spray

    To ensure compatibility of the original and repair materials for as neat a repair as possible, Furnitubes is able to supply suitable coating repair products