Types of Stainless Steel Finishes

Our stainless steel products are finished in either mirror, satin or a combination of both.
The mirror finish is achieved by highly polishing the stainless steel surface to create a reflective surface (similar to chrome). Once polished the surface retains these properties. This finish is extremely serviceable and easily cleaned. It is unusual to experience tea tree staining on these type of surfaces. The finish can however be scratched, due to the reflective nature of the surface these scratches are not normally noticeable.

The satin finish is achieved by "roughening" the surface of the stainless steel. While this surface finish has a unique appearance it can trap dust and other contaminates. Over time these contaminates can stain the stainless steel surface (tea tree staining). The build up of contaminates can be reduced by applying a surface sealer. Finishes which have a build up of contaminates (and stains) can be 'rejuvenated' by using a stainless steel cleaner.

There are different grades of satin finish, which relate to how deeply the surface is roughened. Jalex uses a relatively minor satin finish to reduce the extent of contaminate build up, however customers should be aware that even this surface finish will require periodic maintenance with a suitable cleaner.
Jalex recommends mirror finish for external applications but satin finishes can be used providing the customer understands that it will require periodic maintainance to maintain the surface finish.