A Stain or Corrosion on Stainless Steel? Assess Before Coating

A visible mark on stainless steel needs assessment before a protective coating is applied. Covering the area does not establish whether the issue is removable contamination or deterioration of the material.

Inspect after suitable cleaning

Use a method approved for the finish and inspect the surface dry. Record whether the mark remains, returns quickly or is associated with a joint or fastener. Photograph the surrounding area as well as the close detail.

Refer persistent deterioration

Pitting, recurring corrosion or damage to a functional component should be reviewed by the appropriate metal or maintenance specialist. Do not describe a decorative coating as a repair for lost material or a substitute for determining why the problem developed.

Coat only an accepted surface

Once any required cleaning or repair is complete, confirm the preparation and coating system for the resulting finish. Keep the accepted condition in photographs and maintain the surface as instructed. If the mark returns, use that record to investigate the cause rather than repeatedly applying more product.

Read stainless corrosion and material selection and stainless coating test areas.