Will loft doors work well as bathroom doors ?

One of the more frequently asked questions by our customers is about the placement of loft doors in a particular room. Quite often they ask questions about the bathroom. The answer to such a question, as in many cases, is very simple and is: yes they are suitable 🙂 However, there are a few things to think about before you decide to install them in your bathroom.

Loft (steel) doors are rusting

Steel rusts and this is an obvious fact. Steel doors can also rust, provided they are placed in extremely adverse conditions or are inadequately maintained. We paint loft doors using powder coating technology. Polyester powder coating is a suitable option because it guarantees the extended life of the steel. Its main advantage is the powder’s strong water-resistant properties. Polyester is a synthetic fiber and covers the entire surface of the steel, protecting it from access to water. To prevent powder-coated steel from rusting, it is important to maintain the integrity of the powder coating. This can be done by avoiding scratches or damage to the coating, as well as regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent the accumulation of dirt and debris. In addition, it is important to protect the steel from exposure to moisture and other corrosive agents.

There is no specific length of time for which a powder coating will retain its properties, due to the infinite possibilities of the environment it will be in. There are several steps that can be taken to extend the life of the powder at the production stage.

One of the most important steps is the initial preparation of the substrate. After welding and sanding, the door is greasy and dirty. The grease comes from the coating with which the door profiles are protected at the steel mill. Thorough surface preparation before applying the powder helps ensure optimal results. Our customers appreciate the fact that our profiles are shot-blasted and then washed with phosphates. This helps maximize the durability of the powder coating and increases the overall life of the product.

The type of powder coating finish also affects its longevity over time. There are two main types of powder with different applications – epoxy and polyester.

Epoxy powder is generally a coating for interior use. Placing an epoxy-coated product outdoors can cause it to fade and deteriorate in just a few months. Despite its resistance to corrosion and chemicals, exposure to weather and sunlight will shorten the life of epoxy powder coating. Used properly and with the right technology, this material has the potential to last for years.

Polyester varnishes, on the other hand, have an advantage for interior and exterior applications. Polyester will resist chemicals and corrosion in a similar way to an epoxy coating. It is also able to withstand the elements and the sun’s UV rays for a very long time. Varnishing with paints that are hybrids of both options is also an option.

 

How to care for loft doors in the bathroom

To maintain powder-coated parts and prevent rusting, follow these steps:

  1. Regularly clean the powder coated surface with mild detergent and water. Avoid using abrasives or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the coating.
  2. Regularly inspect the coating for any signs of damage or wear, such as scratches or chips. If any damage is found, it should be repaired immediately to prevent rust.
  3. Avoid exposing the powder-coated surface to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures, as these can degrade the coating.
  4. Apply a clear coat or sealant to the powder coating to provide an additional layer of protection against moisture and other corrosive elements.

 

 

Below are some of our implementations in customer bathrooms