Finish
Galvanised & Powder Coated (RECOMMENDED)
Galvanised and Powder Coated | Whilst this finish is more expensive than the others, is one of the best long-term finishes available for architectural metalwork and is one we highly recommend. It combines the benefits of hot dip galvanising (see Galvanised Only finish for more details) which has anti-corrosive properties with a high-quality powder coated finish. Powder coating is an industrial process which involves curing powdered paint on top of the metalwork in a heated oven.
We can arrange to powder coat our products in most classic RAL colours.
Like all galvanised metalwork, small vent holes will be visible on hollow section steel. which is a requirement of the hot dip procedure. Some fettling/sanding down of the galvanised residue is done by our supplier prior to powder coating.
All our galvanising and powder coating processes are undertaken by an outside supplier. Hence we have no control over this process other than to supervise their quality. It is noted that whilst we take great care and attention to all our products, over time the galvanising or powder coating finishes may sustain scratches, chips or in the unlikely event wear away. If this occurs it may expose the metalwork to the elements, a situation that could lead to some rusting. As a result, no type of finishing is included in our guarantee.
Unfinished (Mill Finish)
Unfinished (Mill Finish) | We can offer our fabricated gates and railings in an untreated “mill finish” appearance. These items are not galvanised or powder coated, there is no red oxide or black paint. Instead they are manufactured and supplied in their bare metal state leaving the client to apply their own finish. This unfinished option has a shorter lead time and costs less.
However, if the products remain untreated or are painted with red oxide and black paint, rust will appear and the client will be required to maintain the products from time to time. We recommend using Hammerite paint.
DISCONTINUED
Red Oxide Primer
Red Oxide Primer | This ‘no frills’ approach is our cheapest available finish. Here we simply apply a single coat of red oxide primer, effectively an undercoat, to the metalwork ready for on-site painting by other parties. For this finish on-going maintenance will be required
Red Oxide Primer & Painted Black
Powder Coated Only
Powder Coated Only | Our metalwork can be supplied with a powder-coated only finish. Although this process generally provides a lovely smooth finish, a powder coated only finish is not recommended for external items as exposure to the elements can cause rust to the metalwork under the powder coating. As a result this finish is more popular for internal items such as security grilles.
In addition, there is a chance that the powder coating can chip during installation or transportation, resulting in exposed metalwork. Once the metalwork rusts or the powder coating chips, it is difficult to restore as one cannot hand-paint using traditional brush methods over a powder coated finish. The end result will neither match nor look right. Therefore, we recommend using a paint touch-up spray if any repairs are required. We are unable to re-powder coat any items which have chips or scratches.
Galvanised Only
Galvanised Only | KP Engineering can arrange to galvanise most of our products by using the hot dip method. The galvanising is silver or grey in colour and is likely to become darker over time as it weathers.
Galvanising will generally stop the metalwork from rusting, unless it has chipped, exposing the metalwork beneath. Site alterations can be made good by using a cold galvanising spray available from most DIY stores.
Galvanising is considered to be an industrial finish and does not always produce a smooth surface due to the process. Fettling is not included, so please be prepared to see some zinc residue on the surface. Furthermore, on hollow section steel, small vent holes will be visible.
The metalwork can be left as galvanised only or it can be painted over. Before painting, the surface should be lightly sanded down, then a mordant T-wash solution should be applied, before finally applying the paint.
A galvanised finish can also be powder coated prior to delivery or installation. (Please refer our Galvanised and Powder Coated finish for more information).
All our galvanising processes are undertaken by an outside supplier. Hence we have no control over this process other than to supervise their quality. It is noted that whilst we take great care and attention to all our products, over time the galvanising may sustain scratches, chips or in the unlikely event wear away. If this occurs it may expose the metalwork to the elements, a situation that could lead to some rusting. As a result, no type of finishing is included in our guarantee.
