Stainless Steel Disclaimer
Guaranteed AISI 316 Marine Grade. Satin Finish as Specified.
Every Inline Design product identified as AISI 316 stainless steel on its product page is made from genuine AISI 316 marine-grade stainless steel, with the satin finish as specified. That is guaranteed.
What we can't promise is that it will never stain or rust. No stainless steel can promise that — not even the 316 on a yacht. Below we explain why, how finish makes a difference, and how to keep your railing looking like new.
Applies to: Inline Design products identified as AISI 316 stainless steel on their product pages — posts, handrail tubing, brackets, fittings, and cable. Products in other materials or finishes, including black matte powder-coated products, are not covered on this page.
Same 316 Steel as on a Boat — Different Finish
Many marine fittings use the same 316 grade found in our stainless steel railing products. Surface finish also affects maintenance: smoother surfaces generally retain fewer salt deposits and are easier to clean. Our satin finish provides a soft, low-glare architectural look. Terms such as satin and brushed are not universal corrosion-resistance grades; actual surface roughness, processing and regular cleaning matter.
Mirror Polished
Boats & marine fittingsVery smooth surface: fewer places for salt deposits to settle, and easy to rinse clean.
Satin
Architectural railing — our finishFine, even grain with a soft, low-glare architectural look. Rinse and clean regularly.
Coarser Finishes
Rougher grainDeeper grooves can retain more salt deposits, so they usually need more frequent cleaning.
In a coastal location? Rinse and clean more frequently, especially where rain cannot wash off salt. See the Care Guide.
316 Satin Is Rust-Resistant, Not Rust-Proof
316 stainless steel has high corrosion resistance — far better than ordinary steel — but “stainless” means stain-resistant, not stain-proof. Even genuine 316 with a satin finish can show surface staining or rust spots when these conditions are present:
Coastal & Salt Air Exposure
Living near the ocean or other saltwater is the biggest factor. Salt settles on the surface and needs to be rinsed off.
Chlorides & De-Icing Salts
Regular contact with pool chemicals, chlorine, or road salt can discolor the surface.
Contact With Rusting Metals
Iron, carbon steel, or other rusting metal touching or near the railing can leave rust stains on the stainless steel.
Cutting & Grinding Residue
Steel particles from cutting, grinding, or welding tools can rust on the surface if they are not cleaned off.
How to Keep It Looking Like New
Rinse & Clean Regularly
Clean the railing on a regular schedule, and more often in coastal, poolside, or industrial settings.
Treat Spots Early
Clean any staining or discoloration as soon as you notice it, before it has a chance to spread or pit.
Use the Right Products
Use only stainless-steel-safe cleaners. Avoid steel wool, bleach, mineral acids, and coarse abrasives.
Passivate When Needed
After cutting, welding, or rust removal, a passivation treatment can help restore the surface. Follow the treatment manufacturer’s instructions for application, rinsing and any waiting time before sealing or polishing.
What Our Guarantee Covers
Guaranteed
- Products identified as AISI 316 on their product pages are genuine AISI 316 marine-grade stainless steel.
- The finish is satin as specified on the product page, as delivered.
Not Covered
- Rust, staining, discoloration, or corrosion caused by the environment, contamination, or lack of cleaning.
- Routine cleaning and maintenance, which are the responsibility of the owner or installer.
Always test any cleaning, polishing, or passivating product on a small, hidden area first, and follow the product manufacturer's instructions.
Questions About Your Location?
See our full Stainless Steel Care Guide for cleaning and passivation steps, or contact our sales team about your specific environment.
Email our sales team or call (425) 405-5505