Contractor Tips Blog

Feb
18

Cleaning and Maintaining Outdoor Metal Staircases

Posted in Metal Stairs

One of the advantages of metal staircases is the low maintenance required. Even when used outdoors, metal staircases withstand the elements and can last for decades. But low maintenance does not mean no maintenance – to extend the life of your stairs you need to keep them clean and repaired. Here are some simple cleaning and maintenance tips that should be done periodically on your outdoor metal staircases.

Clean Away Dirt and Debris

Accumulated dirt and debris can cause wear on the coating and paint protecting the metal structure of your staircase. Most metal stairs can be easily cleaned with a hose and soft scrub brush or with a low-pressure power washing. This can remove mildew, dirt and other debris, keeping your staircases clean for appearance and to protect against wear.

Inspect Rails, Treads and Supports

Check your staircase for any signs of loose welds or components. Even a slight wiggle or loose bolt should be repaired right away. Repairs to a loose railing or tread can be quickly accomplished and can reduce safety issues, delaying any further deterioration.

Look for Bare Metal

If you find any areas where the paint or coating has worn away, leaving bare metal, it is time for more coating. Metal will rust and quickly deteriorate without protection. Contact a local metal staircase fabricator that offers on-site recoating to restore the protective shield. Your staircase will look like new again and be ready to last for many more years.

Metal staircases are simple to maintain and clean but do need occasional repairs and upkeep. Stay on top of needed repairs and maintenance to make your staircase last for many years.

Posted on behalf of:
LCG Welding, LLC
4625 Church Road
Cumming, GA 30028
(678) 455-5552

Sep
3

6 Reasons to Choose Metal Stairs for Your Business

Posted in Metal Stairs

If you are building a brick and mortar multiple-story business or need a new staircase for your existing business, you have many options available. Concrete, wood or metal are popular choices, with many different design options. While each has its pros and cons, there are some viable reasons to choose metal stairs for your commercial building. Here are six excellent reasons metal stairs are a wise investment for commercial buildings.

  1. Longevity. Metal lasts for decades, especially when properly maintained and coated. Industrial coating protects metal from rust and deterioration and with coating, metal can last longer than other options available.
  2. Durable. If you need stairs that can handle heavy weights or exposure to certain elements, metal can be a great choice. Metal is not porous or edible by pests/terminates, which can be a problem with concrete or wood.
  3. Easy maintenance. Metal stairs are simple to maintain and clean. They can be pressure washed outside or just swept inside. Adding coating can help extend the life of your stairs but is only needed once every several years or more.
  4. Stylish. Metal is easy to customize and can come in many different styles. Metal fabricators can create almost any design.
  5. Versatile. Metal is versatile and can create staircases that can fit almost any space or style option. Open-grate treads are perfect for outside to allow rain, snow and water to pass through for safety.
  6. Easy repair. When repairs are needed, metal can be easily reinforced or parts replaced by a metal fabricator in your area.

For both interior and exterior staircases, metal is a great option for commercial buildings. Contact a metal fabricator to discuss the affordable, durable options available for your new metal staircase.

Posted on behalf of:
LCG Welding, LLC
4625 Church Road
Cumming, GA 30028
(678) 455-5552

Apr
16

Importance of Maintenance and Repairs for Outdoor Metal Staircases

Posted in Metal Stairs

One of the reasons metal staircases are popular for commercial buildings is their longevity. A quality metal staircase can last for decades, making it a wise investment for apartment buildings, industrial warehouses and other businesses. While metal is durable, it does corrode over time, especially when exposed to the outdoor elements. Maintenance can help keep metal staircases safe and extend the life of the structure.

Routine Maintenance for Metal Staircases

Quality outdoor metal staircases are painted or coated to protect the metal from rust and corrosion. Over time, this protective covering can wear off. The best way to protect the paint and stairway is to keep it clean. Pressure washing away dirt and debris can help reduce wear and tear.

In addition to regular cleaning, metal staircases will need new paint or coating every few years. When the coating wears through and the metal is exposed, rust will occur. Keeping the protective coating updated can help reduce wear and tear.

Professional Metal Repairs

Eventually metal staircases will need repairs. Treads, railings and welds may become weak, creating safety hazards. Inspections of the staircases should be made routinely to check for loose railings, rust and holes in the metal. Repairs can be made by metal fabricators that specialize in metal staircases, repairing or replacing components as needed. Metal stair restoration can extend the life of a staircase, delaying replacement.

Metal staircases are low maintenance, but they do still need some routine care. Keeping outdoor metal staircases clean and coated can prevent premature wear and tear. When repairs are needed, find an experienced metal fabricator that can replace and repair the components to maintain a safe stairway for your building.

Posted on behalf of:
LCG Welding, LLC
4625 Church Road
Cumming, GA 30028
(678) 455-5552

Nov
8

3 Signs of an Aging Metal Staircase

Posted in Metal Stairs

Do you have a commercial building with an older metal staircase? While metal staircases can last for decades when maintained, they will eventually need repairs, retrofits or replacement. Many metal staircases on commercial buildings are outside and exposed to the elements. When they begin to age, they can become a liability for your business and need repair to keep them safe for your employees, tenants and/or customers. Here are three signs your metal staircase is aging and in need of some TLC.

  1. Rust. Most metal staircases have a protective coating to prevent rust. However, as they age, this coating wears away and the metal is exposed. Spots of rust or corrosion are definite signs your staircase needs maintenance.
  2. Holes in stair treads. If rust does attack the metal, the stair treads are often the first to get holes through the metal. Treads are thinner metal, and the coating wears off quicker, making them susceptible to holes through the metal.
  3. Loose welds. If the railings or stair treads are loose, the welds may be losing their strength. This can become dangerous and prove to be a liability if someone falls or trips on your staircase.

Repair or Replacement?

If you see any of these signs of aging on your metal staircase, it is time to schedule an inspection. Contact a local metal fabricator that specializes in metal staircases for an inspection. They can help determine if you only need repairs and new coating for your staircase, or if a complete overhaul is the best option. It is a wise investment to prevent injuries that could be very costly if you are determined to be liable due to an unsafe staircase.

Posted on behalf of:
LCG Welding, LLC
4625 Church Road
Cumming, GA 30028
(678) 455-5552

Sep
6

Top Benefits of Metal Stairs

Posted in Metal Stairs

When it comes to building stairs for commercial use, there are several considerations. Budget, durability, use and safety are all factors in determining the best stairs for your business or property. Metal stairs have many benefits and advantages when it comes to commercial use. Here are some of the top advantages of choosing metal stairs for your commercial property.

  • Strength. Metal is strong and can handle heavy traffic and weight. Whether you own an apartment building with foot traffic or a manufacturing facility needing high-weight capabilities, metal stairs can meet the strength needs for your business.
  • Longevity. Metal stairs can last for many years, even decades. When properly maintained, metal can last longer than many other materials and is easily repaired if needed.
  • Versatility. Not all metal stairs are the same. You can have your stairs customized to meet your needs, from indoor stylish options to functional, durable outdoor commercial-grade staircases.
  • Safety. Metal is excellent for providing safe stairs for employees and customers. Non-slip, sturdy stairs made from metal are extremely safe and can help reduce accidents on your property.
  • Budget. Metal stairs are a cost-efficient, fitting almost any budget. They can be less expensive than other options and last longer than other materials.
  • Easy maintenance. Metal stairs are simple to maintain. They are easy to clean and repair; re-coating the stairs every few years can keep them looking great and protect them from damage.

Metal stair offer many valuable benefits, making them a wise investment for many different types of commercial applications. Use an experienced metal fabricator that specializes in customized metal staircases for the highest quality stairs for your business.

Posted on behalf of:
LCG Welding, LLC
4625 Church Road
Cumming, GA 30028
(678) 455-5552

Jul
23

Railing Safety: When to Replace or Repair a Metal Stairwell Railing

Posted in Metal Stairs

A loose railing on a stairway is a liability, especially on a commercial property. If you own a business with staircases, you need to be aware of the condition of your railings. A loose screw or a broken weld could make the railing unsafe, even cause injury. Don’t take the risk of a hurt employee or customer – here are some tips on how to ensure your metal railings are secure and safe on your commercial building.

Visual Inspection

First, take a close look at your stair railings. Look for rust, dents or any signs of wear. Check the joints – are all the screws in place? Does anything look off-kilter? Often you can see something is wrong with the railing if you look closely, giving you a chance to get it fixed before it causes problems.

The Wiggle Test

If a railing wiggles, it needs repair. It is that simple. Metal railings should be solid, no room for movement. Any wiggle room means there is a screw loose or a weld that is not secure. Check every section regularly, especially if you notice any visual concerns. If you can feel the railing give at all, it is time to consider repair or replacement for your metal railing.

When a railing needs repair, call your local metal fabricator that specializes in metal staircases. They can inspect your railings and offer a repair solution. Often the railings can be repaired and recoated without needing complete replacement. If they do need to be replaced, your metal fabricator can customize new railing for your staircases that will be secure and safe for use.

Posted on behalf of:
LCG Welding, LLC
4625 Church Road
Cumming, GA 30028
(678) 455-5552

Nov
30

Extend the Life of Your Metal Staircase

Posted in Metal Stairs

Metal staircases are a wise investment for commercial properties, offering durability for heavy use. However, both indoor and outdoor metal stairs do wear out from exposure and heavy traffic. Avoid untimely replacement by restoring your metal staircase. A quick overhaul can add many years to the life of your staircase, protecting your investment.

Restoring Metal Staircases

Metal can withstand plenty of abuse from weather, chemicals and weight, but it will eventually corrode and weaken. Metal fatigue can occur in treads and support structures on your staircase; coatings can wear thin and expose the metal to rust and corrosion. Restoration can fix these issues and extend the life of your staircase.

Metal stair restoration starts with fixing structural issues. All elements of the staircase need to be inspected and repaired when needed. Treads that have worn thin from metal fatigue should be replaced. Railings that have become loose may need new welds to strengthen the structure. Once all the small issues have been addressed and repaired, you will need to add new protection to the surface.

Recoating the staircase can protect the metal and make your structure look like new again. Primer, coating and new paint can add the layers of protection needed to keep rust and corrosion at bay. Once completed, you can look forward to many more years of use before you need a complete staircase replacement.

For metal staircase restoration, only trust an experienced metal fabricator that specializes in commercial metal work. Considering the amount of use and abuse your staircases withstand, you want to ensure the best techniques and products are used in your restoration for long-lasting results.

Posted on behalf of:
LCG Welding, LLC
4625 Church Road
Cumming, GA 30028
(678) 455-5552

Dec
30

Restore or Repair? Deciding the Best Option for Your Commercial Staircase

Posted in Metal Stairs

Do you have a metal staircase at your commercial building that is becoming an eyesore, or worse, a safety concern? Metal staircases are used in many commercial applications due to their durability, easy maintenance and longevity, but even metal can wear out when constantly exposed to the elements or under heavy use. If you have noticed rust, corrosion or weak spots on your staircase, it is time to fix the issue before it causes an injury. But do you need just a staircase restoration or a full replacement?

In many cases, metal staircases can be restored by a metal fabricator. It depends on the amount of repair that is needed. If there are only a few loose welds or rusted areas, it may be less expensive to have the staircase restored. First the staircase will need to be inspected. The metal fabricator can evaluate your staircase for signs of these common issues:

  • Metal fatigue
  • Rust
  • Failing welds
  • Loose railings
  • Corrosion
  • Worn protective coating

In many circumstances, the issues can be fixed without replacing the whole staircase. Replacing a few treads and re-welding loose areas can often fix the issue. Once the structural issues are fixed, covering the staircase with a new protective coating will make it look new and extended the life of the metal.

Of course, if there are too many repairs needed, it may time for a complete replacement. However, once your staircase is replaced with new, solid metal, it should last for decades if maintained. Call your local metal fabricator that specializes in metal staircase restorations and replacements to schedule your inspection.

Posted on behalf of:
LCG Welding, LLC
4625 Church Road
Cumming, GA 30028

 

Sep
9

Spring Renovations for Your Business’ Metal Stairs

Posted in Metal Stairs

Metal staircases are used in many commercial buildings due to their durability for heavy traffic and exposure to the elements. However, even the highest quality metal can begin to show fatigue and wear over time, creating aesthetic and safety issues. If you own or manage a business with metal staircases, spring is the perfect time to reevaluate whether it is time to rejuvenate their structural integrity with a restoration service.

Inspecting Your Metal Staircases

Whether your metal stairs are indoor or outside, you want to ensure they are continuing to perform at a high safety level. Even indoors, metal can be exposed to moisture and industrial components that can deteriorate the coating on the metal, causing rust and weakness at the weld points. If the elements have impacted the coating, it may be obvious from just a glance that at a bare minimum your metal stairs need new coating to protect the metal. However, safety is a higher concern.

Signs that your metal stairs could become hazardous and cause liability for your business include:

  • Treads with holes or weak points
  • Loose railings
  • Rust through coating
  • Disconnected or weak welds

Once severe deterioration begins, the metal will continue to corrode and become unsafe. However, if caught early, you can save money over a stair replacement with a metal stair renovation. A quality metal fabrication company that specializes in industrial metal stairs can restore and repair the weak points in the stairs. With recoating or painting, the aesthetic aspect can be restored along with adequate protection for the metal.

Don’t wait for an injury or accident to occur at your business due to worn metal stairs. Plan your spring stair restoration today.

Posted on behalf of:
LCG Welding, LLC
4625 Church Road
Cumming, GA 30028

Mar
13

What Part of Your Metal Stairs Need Repair?

Posted in Metal Stairs

If you own or manage an apartment building or other type of commercial building with metal stairs, you rarely will need to concern yourself with their construction. After all, metal stairs last for years, even decades, without needing repairs. However, even metal will eventually wear down with use and exposure and when it does on a staircase, it can become a hazard. You will need a metal stair fabricator to repair certain parts, but which ones? Do you know the names for the parts of your stairs? Here is the simple breakdown of stair parts and terms to make it easier.

  • Balustrade. The entire railing system of a stairway.
  • Baluster. The part of the balustrade that runs in a vertical direction, holding up the handrail.
  • Bullnose (starting step). The first or bottom step, generally larger in size than the other steps.
  • Flight. On section of staircase between floors or landings.
  • Handrail. The part of the balustrade you hold as you ascend or descend.
  • Landing or Platform. This is the wider flat area at the bottom and top of each flight of staircase. Often there is a landing in the middle of staircase between floors to change directions.
  • Riser. The part of the stair that runs at a right angle at the back of the tread; the flat vertical surface of the step. (not all metal stairs have risers)
  • Stringer. This is the main skeleton of the staircase that supports the risers and treads. Usually there are two, one on each side of the staircase.
  • Tread. The part of the stair you step on, the actual steps of the stairs.
  • Winder. A tread that is wider on one side than the other to help the staircase move in a curved direction, only used on spiral staircases.

These terms can help you explain to a metal stair fabricator what needs repair or replacement. You should inspect all these parts regularly for any rust or weakening as part of your property safety regimen.

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