When selecting the right finish or material, it’s not just the overall appearance of the door and fitting that matters, as corrosion protection often plays a critical part too. In practice, it’s important to harmonise both components in order to maintain the overall aesthetic over the long term.
SIMONSWERK’s main materials and finishes are tested in accordance with the specifications of DIN EN 1670:2007 and are classified as follows:
Stainless steel | Category 5 |
| Coloured PVCu-coated | Category 5 |
| Stainless steel look (aluminium) | Category 4 |
| Top zinc | Category 4 |
| Galvanised | Category 3 |
| Matt-chromed | Category 3 |
| Matt-nickel-plated | Category 3 |
Salt spray testing | |
| Category 1 | 24 hours |
| Category 2 | 48 hours |
| Category 3 | 96 hours |
| Category 4 | 240 hours |
| Category 5 | 480 hours |
All other finishes not listed are for visual requirements only.
We recommend only using hinges made of stainless steel for use in damp and wet rooms (also as defined in RAL-RG 426 Part 3) and on components that are exposed to the outside weather, as only this material remains corrosion-resistant in the long term.
Stainless steel can reach its limits in normal environmental conditions as well as in extreme conditions (coastal regions, indoor swimming pools, rooms with aggressive air, etc.). Regular maintenance prevents the build-up of deposits and flash rust. The cleaning intervals depend on degree of soiling. Tests have shown that brands such as Cillit, Enablitz, Stahlfix and 3M have good results in terms of cleaning effect, preservation and ease of application.
Under no circumstances should steel wool, steel brushes or the like be used for cleaning, as such aids damage the protective finish and allow extraneous rust to build up due to abrasion.
In the case of acetylated, acidic and other modified woods, care must be taken to ensure that the fittings are sufficiently corrosion-resistant. SIMONSWERK recommends using only stainless steel for this application.The corrosion resistance of stainless steel can be improved through a purposefully selective use of materials. We will be happy to advise you.