Living along or near the coast attracts specific types of problems. Winter attracts rain and wind. Summer brings the heat of the sun. But all encounter salt. Whilst a little salt is great on fish and chips, salt can be harsh on our homes and even more devastating on door hardware.
Austyle has a range of 316 grade stainless steel door levers. The 316 grade stainless steel is more resistant to corrosion. You will find 316 grade stainless steel is mandatory on boats. Because 316 grade stainless steel is more resistant to corrosion, it will stand the test of time better and longer when confronted with salt.
The Austyle levers use a patented stainless steel bearing race mechanism to allow the lever to function smoothly in all conditions. To this Austyle have added a 15 year mechanical warranty. In reality with a bit of maintenance, TLC, the leave can function twice as long.
The Door Lever
Being constructed of 316 grade stainless steel the lever has a tested 4 hour fire rating. Something you never want to find out for real. In addition the Austyle lever comes with tamper proof fixings to protect your leaver being removed without your consent. The lever can be converted from passage to privacy quite simply if the need arises.
At Architectural Design Hardware we have the privilege of offering the Austyle Range of door hardware. Our showroom is open for you to touch and feel the items. Our consultants are there to assist you with decision making. Now lets take a brief look into the Austyle 316SS door lever range you can own.
AUSTYLE 316SS
Architectural Lever 316SS #42310
SKU42310
Description Architectural Lever 316SS
Size 52mm
Finish Satin Stainless Steel
Architectural Lever 316SS #42314
SKU42314
Description Architectural Lever 316SS
Size 52mm
Finish Satin Stainless Steel
Architectural Lever 316SS #42318
SKU42318
Description Architectural Lever 316SS
Size 52mm
Finish Satin Stainless Steel
Architectural Lever 316SS #42320
SKU42320
Description Architectural Lever 316SS
Size 52mm
Finish Satin Stainless Steel
Architectural Lever 316SS #42325
SKU42325
Description Architectural Lever 316SS
Size 52mm
Finish Satin Stainless Steel
DDA Compliant Architectural Lever 316SS #42300
DDA Compliant For Commercial Project Applications
SKU42300
Description Architectural Lever 316SS
Size 52mm
Finish Satin Stainless Steel
Architectural Lever 316SS #42304
SKU42304
Description Architectural Lever 316SS
Size 52mm
Finish Satin Stainless Steel
Architectural Lever 316SS #42309
SKU42309
Description Architectural Lever 316SS
Size 52mm
Finish Satin Stainless Steel
All Austyle 316SS levers have the standard 52mm concealed tamper proof rose fixture. They will fit any door. Also suitable for most Aluminium framed styled doors (check door style size).
You can view more of the Austyle Range on our website here
Cleaning 316SS
The simplest way to clean a 316SS door lever is to use warm water and a little dish washing liquid on a clean cloth. Wipe down the door levers. Touch dry with a cloth.
If you find discoloration occurring, similar to a tea stain, use a metal scourer and gently rub in the direction of the grain, the area in question. Tea Staining as it is known is the reaction of 316SS to corrosion. This is just a stain on the surface and is easily removed by a kitchen scourer. It is normal for 316SS to discolor when salt and water are extreme.
Cleaning door hardware should be a regular process around the home. When you live along the coast more regular cleaning should be undertaken. Salt build up is not desirable. Salt if left will damage your door hardware, including window metal frames, locks and the like.
Chemical Applications
Using a lubricant spray like WD-40 will help keep locks and lever mechanisms functioning smoothly. A regular spray after cleaning will prolong the life of your door hardware and windows. Don't forget hinges are also meatal and subjected to corrosion. Spray them too.
If you have a stainless steel letterbox exposed to the elements it might be a good idea to give that some attention. Stainless steel hand rails on outdoor stairs requires attention. But do not use chemicals on the hand rail. Regular cleaning will suffice. Oil from hands should protect the surface nicely.
You can purchase stainless steel chemical cleaners from Bunnings if you think necessary. Regular TLC with basic products will do the same job. Chemicals add their own dimension. Tea Staining is removed by scouring the surface of the stainless steel. That is the beauty of 316SS.
Conclusion
Austyle 316SS door levers are to be considered when coastal living is concerned. Perth is a coastal city. Our Swan River is salty and as such is very similar to an ocean of salt water.
Needing 316SS grade is not compulsory. With regular cleaning of door handles no matter where you live in the world, will prolong the life of said door handles.
An alternative to 316SS is brass. Brass has long been apart of times past sailing ships. From hinges to door handles you will find brass fittings. Brass is very resistant to corrosion. Which is why it was used freely on sailing ships and boats. Today Stainless steel is cheaper to produce which is why brass has taken a back seat to boating.
We hope you enjoyed our article and we look forward to seeing you in our showroom at Architectural Design Hardware to browse our display and touch and feel that which can open doors.