Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is life cycle costing?
A: Life cycle costing (LLC) is a technique developed for identifying and quantifying all costs, initial and ongoing, associated
with a project or installation over a given period. A full life cycle cost analysis enables the materials specifier/user to
consider the full implications of future costs, in terms of both actual monetary value, and inconvenience of future maintenance
and replacements. Hence, stainless steel as a natural choice as opposed to coated mild steel for example.
Q: Do I need to maintain stainless steel?
A: Yes, definitely. Like any investment, routine, simple cleaning will ensure the longevity of the product. Proprietary cleaners
are available on the market today but routine washing down with a mild detergent and clean water should suffice. As a
“rule of thumb”, clean your stainless steel as routinely as you would your windows. For more stubborn marks or stains such
as paint, grease etc, please contact your supplier for advice on the best solution.
Q: What is the “Passive Layer” on stainless steel?
A: After fabrication, stainless steel is normally finished mechanically to the required uniform surface finish. For a period of time,
the surface may be prone to finger printing. During this time the alloying elements in stainless steel start forming the
protective “passive layer” which is only microns thick, and reforms in the presence of oxygen. This is why stainless steel
requires no coating of any sort. Q: How do I remove rust spots from my balustrade?
A: Depending on the severity of the problem and how long the marks have been evident, the surface will require re-finishing
with a “Scotchbrite” pad or equal equivalent. These marks could be caused by a lot of different factors like tree sap or mild
steel dust particles caused by cutting, welding or grinding close by. In stubborn cases, a pickling solution might be required
to chemically remove the contaminant, but be warned, extreme care must be taken when using these pickling solutions and
you should ideally refer the problem to a specialist.
Q: Can I get a reference or recommendation anywhere on my stainless steel supplier?
A: Most definitely. SASSDA, The Southern Africa Stainless Steel Development Association can be contacted. They have a certification
process in place to assist the consumer in selecting a suitable qualified and experienced supplier. Request membership information
and certification from regulatory bodies from your supplier as well.
Q: How do I know what grade of stainless steel should be chosen for my application?
A: Your supplier should have the answers for you and be suitably qualified and experience to recommend the correct grade for the
application. Always choose a reputable fabricator, with references, who will be able to advise and justify the material grade
suitable for your application.
If you are still uncertain, feel free to contact SASSDA who provide free technical advice to the consumer.
Q: At what stage in my building process should I have balustrades installed?
A: The answer is simply: as late as possible. Select your chosen design and suitably qualified supplier when your concrete work is
done and measurable. Leave the installation process for as late as possible in the program for the following reasons:
1) The balustrades should be installed by using the core drilling method if top fixed, for the uprights, which after tiling will
create a neat continuous tiling line and
2) tile adhesives and acid based tile cleaning agents will affect the finish of the stainless steel and corrosion marks could become
evident. If you are installing wooden floors or carpets, it is advisable to install the balustrades first as core drilling is a wet process
which could cause water damage. |
