POWDERCOATING WARRANTY, CARE & MAINTENANCE

CARE & MAINTENANCE OF POWDER COATED PRODUCTS

Over time with exposure to the elements, powder coatings may show signs of weathering such as loss of gloss, chalking and slight color change. A regular clean will minimise the effects of weathering and will remove dirt, grime and other build-up detrimental to all powder coatings. The frequency of such cleaning will depend on many factors including the:

• Geographical location of the building.
• Environment surrounding the building e.g. marine, industrial, alkaline or acidic, etc.
• Levels of atmospheric pollution including salts.
• Prevailing winds and the possibility of air borne debris causing erosive wear of the coating e.g. sand causing abrasion.
• Protection of part or all of the building by other buildings.
• Change in environmental circumstances during the lifetime of the building e.g. if rural became industrial.

Cleaning should start at the time the products are installed, ensuring that construction materials such as concrete, plaster and paint splashes are removed before they have a chance to dry. Failure to remove these materials at this early stage will require the use of aggressive cleaning materials and techniques with potential damage to the powder coated surface.

The best method of cleaning is by regular washing of the coating using a solution of warm water and nonabrasive, pH neutral detergent solution. Surfaces should be thoroughly rinsed after cleaning to remove all residues. All surfaces should be cleaned using a soft cloth, sponge or a soft natural bristle brush. Cleaning of powder coated sections can be conveniently carried out at the same time as window cleaning.

The frequency of cleaning depends in part on the standard of appearance that is required and also the need to remove deposits that could cause damage during prolonged contact with either the powder film or the metal substrate (if exposed). The classification of exterior environments is as defined in AS4312- 2008.

In environments with very high corrosivity levels, such as industrial or marine, the normal frequency of cleaning should be at a minimum of six monthly intervals. Sheltered areas can be more at risk of coating degradation than exposed areas. This is because wind-blown salt and other pollutants may adhere to the surface and will not be cleaned away with rainfall.

These areas should be inspected and cleaned if necessary on a more regular basis. Where the atmosphere is deemed to be nonhazardous, e.g. rural or ‘normal’ urban environments, then the period between cleaning can be extended up to a maximum of 24 months depending on the coating selection. However, if heavy soiling occurs more regular cleaning is required.

View the Care & Maintenance PDF here.

CARE, STORAGE & HANDLING OF PRODUCT ON SITE

It is advisable to store all goods neatly clear of the ground (on timber pallets or similar) protected with waterproof covers. If the product becomes wet or exposed to direct sun whilst packaged, then separate, wipe and stack in a dry, covered place.

Protect all painted surfaces. Do not drag product over each other or other building materials or tools.

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