Category: Blog

Stainless steel gives an air of sophistication and elegance to any house. However, if you do not clean it frequently enough, you may end up with a room full of gray appliances, doors, or windows. Fortunately, stainless steel is low-maintenance.

A few simple dos and don’ts are all you need to remember to restore shine without damaging surfaces.

4 Ways to Clean Stainless Steel Appliances

Here are four easy steps for cleaning stainless steel:

1. Apply your preferred solution, then wipe the surface with a microfiber cloth or any soft cloth in the direction of the grain. If you’re not sure which way the grain flows, experts recommend wiping side-by-side patches in opposite directions to detect a difference.
2. Rinse your cloth and repeat wiping until it is clean.
3. Utilize a fresh microfiber cloth to dry the cleaned stainless steel surfaces.
4. Finish the job by applying a small amount of olive oil, mineral oil, or baby oil to a dry cloth and rubbing it over the surface. This will increase the sheen, eliminate any remaining streaks, and prevent fingerprints.

Glass cleaners are also effective at removing fingerprints. If necessary, use a commercial cleaner to remove stains from stainless steel, but always read the instructions and perform a spot test first.

Things You Shouldn’t Do When Cleaning Stainless Steel

Below are the things you shouldn’t do when cleaning stainless steel appliances, doors, and windows.

1. Steel wool and brushes will scratch the exterior of your stainless steel, making it more prone to rusting and staining.
2. Abrasive cleaners will scratch the surface and deteriorate the finish.
3. Bleach and chlorine-containing cleaners will discolor and corrode stainless steel.
4. Do not allow dirty water and cleaning solution residues to dry on stainless steel, as this will dull the finish and potentially leave permanent stains.

DIY Cleaning Solutions

The latest and greatest commercial cleaner may not be the most effective or safest stainless steel cleaner. There are numerous methods for cleaning stainless steel that does not involve potentially hazardous commercial cleaners!

Try these DIY cleaners on the appliances, and you’ll see for yourself how effective they are; just remember to perform a spot test before using any stainless steel cleaner.

Vinegar and Olive Oil

You will need white vinegar, olive oil, and two microfiber cloths. Find the grain in the stainless steel by examining it closely. Apply vinegar to a microfiber cloth and rub against the grain to remove dirt, grease, and grime.

Allow the vinegar to dry, then dampen the second microfiber cloth with olive oil. Use a rubbing motion against the grain to distribute the oil.

This straightforward method will efficiently clean, protect, and polish the stainless steel.

Dish Soap and Baby Oil

Dish soap, baby oil, warm water, and three microfiber cloths are required for this DIY cleaner

One teaspoon of dish liquid should be diluted in one quart of warm water. Moisten a microfiber cloth with the cleaning solution and wipe along the grain.

Combine one teaspoon of dish soap with one quart of water. With clean, warm water, wet a clean microfiber towel and wipe away the residue. Allow the finish to dry, then, working with the grain, incorporate the baby oil.

Can You Use Windex to Clean a Stainless Steel?

Many individuals recommend all-purpose cleaners like Windex for stainless steel, whereas others disagree. Here is everything you need to know about Windex and using it to clean stainless steel.

Windex: Its Purpose and Uses

Windex is an all-purpose cleaner for hard surfaces that can be used on a variety of surfaces. While it is primarily used for cleaning glass surfaces and kitchen countertops, you can also use it to clean patio furniture, eliminate stains, and kill insects.

There are numerous Windex products that serve various purposes and should be utilized accordingly.

Windex and Stainless Steel

Ammonia is a major component of Windex cleaning products. It is known to corrode stainless steel, and numerous experts advise against its use.

On the other hand, some people recommend glass cleaners, such as Windex, for stainless steel because it gives a real shine, and you cannot tell if it is brand new or not.

Additionally, ammonia-free Windex cleaners are available for cleaning stainless steel.

Is It Safe to Clean Stainless Steel with Windex?

Avoid using regular Windex on stainless steel, as the ammonia content can damage the material. Although it is possible to clean stainless steel with ammonia-free Windex, it is best not to take the chance because it is difficult to tell how a cleaner will react with stainless steel.

The unpredictability of different stainless steel cleaners makes it difficult to make a decision, as they may do the job or they may damage the appliances, especially if the cleaners contain ammonia.

Many stainless steel appliances include cleaning instructions that advise avoiding abrasive cleaners. When using Windex to clean stainless steel, it is essential to wipe in the direction of the metal grains. In addition, you may also use oil as a type of conditioner for stainless steel after cleaning it with Windex.

Seek Professional Help or Advice

You can clean the stainless steel appliances and prevent permanent damage and corrosion with proper care and maintenance. With relatively little effort, your clients’ appliances will retain their pristine appearance.

However, it is still safe to ask for an expert’s advice on whether the cleaning solutions you or your clients will use are safe for the steel door, window, or appliances.

To speak to our steel experts, you may contact us at 877-590-2741 at Euroline Steel Windows and Doors today!

The door is the first thing one sees when entering a home or office. The handle is the initial point of contact. It keeps outsiders out and family members in.

Regardless of the weather, the doors keep it outside. In other words, the exterior doors of a home are crucial. When selecting doors, you will likely have to make an important choice between steel and wood.

There is no conclusive answer regarding the best material for an exterior door. Both wood and steel have their advantages and disadvantages. You only need to determine which ones matter most to your clients!

Let’s examine the aspects of wood vs steel front doors to determine which has the upper hand.

Aesthetics

Wood Doors

The wood grain’s natural texture is warm and inviting. From dark walnut to striking flame maple, the wood grain itself is captivating. However, carvings and engravings can transform a door into a focal point.

Wood can be stained or painted, offering the homeowner a vast array of options for customization.

Steel Doors

It is more difficult to make steel doors attractive. The surface can be chilly and unwelcoming. Typically, steel doors are painted a single color and feature simple panel patterns that are well-constructed. Obviously, this is not a problem if this is the planned result.

Additionally, extra sheathing or embossing can provide a wood-like appearance.

Cost

Wood Doors

There are wood doors that are similar to steel doors but expect wood to be more expensive. Growing a tree from a seedling to a mature tree requires much time and effort. If you intend to use more exotic wood, the price will increase even further.

Steel Doors

Steel is typically regarded as the most cost-effective option. Even elegant steel doors with simulated paneling and embossing will be far less expensive than comparable wooden doors.

Energy Efficiency

Wood Doors

While a wood door is excellent at retaining moisture and air, it is less effective at insulating against heat and cold. Steel is far more energy-efficient than wood. However, manufacturers can construct wood doors with energy-efficient and fire-resistant cores.

Steel Doors

For optimal energy efficiency, steel is preferable to wood since it has higher insulating characteristics. However, adding a glass pane will reduce efficiency.

Security

Wood Doors

Even though wood is aesthetically beautiful, it is less durable than steel. Wood can be shattered or chopped through even if you’ve made other efforts to protect your door, such as installing sturdy strike plates with lengthy mounting screws to kick the door more difficult. Obviously, a window can nullify this security benefit.

Steel Doors

When it comes to repelling break-ins, a well-constructed steel door with a sturdy frame may as well be a wall.

Even hollow steel doors offer greater protection than the majority of wood exterior doors, while many steel doors, like those sold by CDF Distributors, are filled with insulation and strengthened to boost their robustness.

Maintenance

Wood Doors

To maintain the appearance and functionality of wood doors, they must be refinished every couple of years. The front, back, sides, top, and bottom must be sealed to prevent the wood from decaying or attracting termites and other pests.

Repairs for scratched or dented wood front doors are rather simple. Typically, sanding and touch-up paint are sufficient to repair minor damage.

Steel Doors

To prevent scratches, steel doors are coated with vinyl or polyester at the manufacturing stage. However, when the coating on your steel door wears away, you must repaint or recoat it. If not avoided promptly, steel doors can rust when exposed to moisture.

If steel becomes dented or damaged, repairs are more difficult than with wood. Steel must be sanded and filled to prevent deterioration of the door.

Durability

Wood Doors

When properly sealed, wood can endure for generations. The purpose of paint and finishes is to prevent rot, and as long as routine maintenance prevents the finish from wearing away, the wood front door will remain functional.

In addition to preventing warping and minimizing expansion and contraction, proper finishing also prevents wood from warping.

Steel Doors

Despite its strength, steel is not as durable as wood under the same conditions of daily use. This may depend on the willingness of the homeowner or business owner to perform maintenance, but keeping up with every dent and paint chip is difficult for even the most meticulous individual. Once rust has formed, it is difficult to remove.

In Summary

In conclusion, fiberglass and steel are superior to wood for housing insulation. Steel doesn’t just give your home a unique aesthetic beauty, but also adds more security which gives your clients the peace of mind and protection they deserve.

The exterior of a home is crucial when comparing homes. The entry door, which serves as the main focal point of the exterior of your home, has the power to either improve or detract from the aesthetics of the space.

The fact that steel doors for your home are very energy-efficient is one of their main benefits. We’ve all encountered the unpleasant difficulties associated with having inefficient doors at some point. Steel doors are built with thermal adhesives to strengthen their structural integrity and maximize insulation.

Now that we have analyzed and compared the attributes of each door, let Euroline Steel Windows and Doors examine how these results relate to real-world scenarios and requirements so that you may choose the door that best meets your client’s needs. This will involve making broad assumptions about their circumstances, but you may be in the best position to apply it.

To learn more about our steel doors, you may contact us at 877-590-2741 at Euroline Steel Windows and Doors today!

Steel doors provide excellent security and weather resistance, but they must be regularly painted to prevent rust from forming on their surfaces. Below, we’ll discuss the step-by-step guide on how to apply a fresh coat of paint to a worn, scratched, or tired-looking steel door.

Steel doors are excellent at preventing wind and weather from entering our homes, and they are so durable that they can last a lifetime. However, the paint that covers them will not endure that long.

Therefore, if your client’s home has a metal front door, they will eventually have to repaint it. As with any painting project, the preparation will directly impact the final results, but this is not a particularly difficult DIY.

Step-By-Step Guide to Painting a Steel Door

Before starting, be aware that doors painted prior to 1978 likely contain lead-based paint. If the door has lead-based paint, remove it according to EPA guidelines. Before commencing the project, have the paint tested if you have any doubts.

Step 1: Remove the Door

Know beforehand that paint drying times and environmental factors can make this a multi-day project. If you cannot secure your client’s home without the door, you will have to paint it in place, which could take even longer.

If you can remove the door without jeopardizing the security of the home, place a screwdriver underneath the head of the hinge pin and tap it with a hammer until you can pull it out. Do this with the remaining hinges, and then remove the door.

Step 2: Remove Hardware and Cover Areas that Will Not Be Painted

Prepare the door for painting first. After removing the door from its hinges, place it on two sawhorses or a large, flat surface. Strip away any removable weatherstripping and cover any hinges or hardware with painter’s tape. Cover windows and kickplates that cannot be removed with newspaper to protect them.

Step 3: Use a Degreaser to Clean the Door Well

In accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, wash the entire door with a degreasing cleaner and then dry it with a towel.

Step 4: Sand the Door Lightly

With a dust mask and protective eyewear, lightly sand the door with fine-grit sandpaper (or a sanding block) to roughen the surface and remove any loose paint.

Step 5: Remove All Sanding Dust and Debris Left Behind

Wipe down the entire door to eliminate all sanding dust, and let the door air-dry fully.

Step 6: Apply Primer

If the door has a smooth surface, apply the primer with a short-nap roller and allow it to dry. If the door has recessed panels, begin by priming the inside panels with a small brush, then roll primer onto the mullion which is the vertical part between the panels, and rails which are the horizontal parts between the panels, and the outside edges.

Allow the primer to dry per the manufacturer’s instructions, and if required, apply a second coat in the same manner as the first.

Step 7: Apply Two Layers of Paint, Allowing Each to Fully Dry in Between

Apply at least two coats of exterior satin or semi-gloss paint to the door, following the same procedure as the primer and allowing the necessary drying time between applications.

If you must paint the door while it’s still on its hinges, plan to do so during a stretch of days with no rain in the forecast. Prepare the door one day, then apply the first coat of primer the following morning. If you begin early enough, the paint should have a chance to dry before you lock the door for the evening.

In order for the second coat to be dry by nightfall, begin applying it the following morning. Continue in this manner until all the necessary coats have been applied.

Step 8: Rehang Door After Removing Tape and Replacing Hardware

After the paint has completely dried, gently remove the painter’s tape and reattach any removed hardware or weatherstripping. In conclusion, rehang the door.

It’s incredible how a fresh coat of paint on a door can revitalize an entire look. If you provide adequate time for thorough preparation and drying, the revitalized front door will continue to look fantastic for years to come.

The Best Paint For Steel Door Projects

Water-based acrylic paints (also known as latex paints) and oil-based paints (also called solvent-based paints), as well as the majority of high-quality paints, should perform well on metal with the proper application technique. Consider using paint that is resistant to rust and fading and is suited for an exterior door.

Professionals frequently employ oil-based paints on metal surfaces since they are the most durable. However, these paints are more hazardous than their water-based equivalents, require a longer drying period, and are more difficult to clean up.

It’s up to you as a DIYer to determine what you’re up for and what’s within your skill set, but here are the pros and cons of both steel door paint types to help you decide.

Water-Based Paints for Metal

Pros

• Quick drying
• Simple to use 
• Simple to use 
• Easy to clean
• Not prone to fading

Cons

• Not totally rustproof
• Less durable with time

Oil-Based Paints for Metal

Pros

• Highly resistant to rust
• Very sturdy

Cons

• Quicker to fade
• Long drying time
• Increased toxicity

These are considerations to keep in mind while you complete the project. If you use oil-based paints, make sure to paint a metal door in a well-ventilated place (outdoor is ideal) while wearing a mask and gloves.

Is It Best to Hire a Professional to Do the Job?

This decision ultimately depends on your skill level and self-assurance. Painting a steel door is not necessarily a difficult task, but it is time-consuming and may expose you and your clients to toxins, depending on the type of paint they want.

If you have any doubts, contact a service provider for an estimate and determine whether it would be worthwhile to delegate the task.

If your client wants a full-door renovation, you can check out which is better a steel door vs. a fiberglass door, contact our team at 877-590-2741 at Euroline Steel Windows and Doors today!

A sturdy and fashionable front door makes a home stand out and attracts attention. It provides peace of mind through security and it is one of those minor features that homebuyers seek. Therefore, it is essential to choose from a steel door vs. a fiber door for your home.

It is time to consider replacement doors if your client’s home exterior doors appear drab, lack convenient features, are damaged, or do not match the current style. Entry doors are a crucial element in enhancing the curb appeal of a home.

When you have questions about exterior doors or any other element of a home’s exterior, a reliable and trusted steel door manufacturer can assist you in acquiring entry doors you would genuinely love.

A frequent inquiry from homeowners is whether a fiberglass or steel door is preferable. Depending on the homeowner’s preferences and needs, both of these exterior doors can be beneficial.

Here is the difference between steel doors and fiberglass doors to provide you with a starting point as you make your decision.

Appearance

Steel Doors

Modern steel entry doors are available in a variety of attractive designs, giving a variety of options to choose from. With the addition of decorative panels and other details, high-end steel doors can mimic the appearance of wood.

Your client may also opt for a sleek, contemporary style—they can be painted to match the aesthetic of the entryway.

Fiberglass Doors

Consider a fiberglass entry door if your client desires a stylish door that resembles wood but is easier to maintain. Many wood grains, including cherry, oak, and mahogany, can be imitated by fiberglass to create a beautiful appearance.

Typically, fiberglass is pre-painted or stained to achieve a customized appearance.

Durability

Steel Doors

Steel is a strong and durable door material overall. It is sturdy and will perform well for many years. However, in the absence of proper maintenance, the surface of steel doors can become scratched, dented, or rusted.

Fiberglass Doors

Fiberglass doors are typically a durable option. In contrast to wood, fiberglass is not affected by weather, moisture, or humidity. It is also rust-resistant. However, if struck with sufficient force, fiberglass can be dented or cracked.

Ease of Maintenance

Steel Doors

A steel door has a smooth surface that is simple to wipe clean of dust and grime. Do not rinse with a hose, as the steel surface is susceptible to rust. Scratched doors should be repainted in order to prevent rusting.

Fiberglass Doors

Cleaning fiberglass exterior doors is simple. Simply wipe the surface with a damp, soft cloth as necessary to remove dirt and dust. Rinse with a soft hose spray or a pressure washer on the lowest setting, this is because higher settings may dent the fiberglass.

Energy Efficiency

Steel Doors

Steel is more energy-efficient than wood. It also prevents air from escaping and driving up the utility costs. However, it lacks the durability of fiberglass. In addition, steel can become hot when exposed to sunlight and high temperatures, making it slightly less effective than fiberglass.

Fiberglass Doors

In terms of energy efficiency, fiberglass is unrivaled. As a result of its superior durability, it outperforms both wood and steel. And it is highly effective at preventing air loss, which impacts the utility bills.

Safety

Steel Doors

When it comes to a home security option, a steel entry door is a durable exterior door. Their thick, resilient nature can withstand almost anything. No thief will be able to kick a steel door down.

Fiberglass Doors

Glass is a lightweight material that provides adequate protection. This makes it slightly more susceptible to denting and manipulation.

Cost and Return on Investment

Steel Doors

Steel doors are the most cost-efficient option. A basic steel door is very inexpensive, and it is typically the most budget-friendly door material when compared to wood and fiberglass.

In addition, steel offers homeowners a return on investment of about 90%.

Fiberglass Doors

Typically, fiberglass doors are more expensive than steel doors but less expensive than premium wood doors. However, many homeowners prefer fiberglass because it lasts longer and is easier to maintain than wood and steel.

Fiberglass offers homeowners a return on investment of approximately 75%.

Make Your Client’s Home Stand Out With the Best Exterior Door

Both fiberglass and steel doors increase curb appeal, energy efficiency, and home security when considering front door replacements. The choice between the two materials should ultimately complement your client’s home’s aesthetic and be an inviting sight for guests.

A steel door is indeed stronger and more durable in terms of long-term use—making it the ideal choice for your client’s entry door.

However, we’ve listed down some tips to help you decide between the two alternatives if you are still unsure:

• Examine several door brands for style and cost variations
• Consider how your climate may influence your decision
• Visit showrooms to examine colors and textures in detail
• Consider adding glass panels to your home to let in more natural light

When your clients are ready to invest in exterior home improvements, it is advisable to choose a steel front entry door replacement. Its simple but modern architectural detail can give a home’s entrance a unique charm and elegance that will impress guests and make the owners proud.

Our team at Euroline Steel Windows and Doors enjoys assisting California architects and builders. We’re available whenever you or your clients have questions about replacement entry doors or other exterior home improvements.

Regardless of the weather, there is never a bad time to invest in home improvements. When you’re ready to discuss the attractive, valuable doors and windows we can provide, please contact us for a consultation and quotation.

You call us at 877-590-2741 at Euroline Steel Windows and Doors today!