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How to Buff out Scratches on Stainless Steel Elevator Walls

Elevators in public buildings can experience a high level of wear and tear. Keypads and rails require disinfecting, and carpets should be vacuumed frequently to avoid staining and the spread of infection.

Stainless steel panels are a design option for the interior elevator walls. They provide a low maintenance modern look. Daily maintenance includes wiping the surface with a soft cloth. In spite of regular maintenance, scratches may develop. While scratch removal may be challenging, small scratches may be removed or diminished through polishing. Sanding, refinishing or replacement may be required for deeper scratches.

Things You'll Need

  • Mild all-purpose disinfectant
  • Stainless steel polish
  • Clean dry cloths
  • Medium to coarse grit sandpaper
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Instructions

    • 1

      Stop the elevator to ensure that no passengers board during the cleaning process. If this is not possible, clean the elevator after business hours.

    • 2

      Cover hands with protective gloves to prevent skin irritation.

    • 3

      Squirt a mild all-purpose cleanser onto a clean cloth. Gently wipe down the stainless steel surface. This will remove fingerprints, bacteria and other residue.

    • 4

      Wipe the disinfected area with a soft dry cloth to remove any residual liquid.

    • 5

      Apply a small amount of commercially available stainless steel polish to a clean cloth. Gently rub abrasions and scratches in the direction of the grain.

    • 6

      Inspect the scratch. If it has disappeared, or reduced to your satisfaction, buff the area to a shine. If the scratch appears deep, there are several options. Sanding is one method, and hiring a professional is the second.

    • 7

      Sand the scratched area with a medium to course grit sandpaper. Sandpaper grades of 80 to 120 are ideal. Fold or cut the paper so that contact is made with as little of the steel as possible. Sand in the direction of the grain.

    • 8

      Polish the area with stainless steel polish, as the sanded area may appear dull.

    • 9

      Inspect the scratch a final time. The scratch should be less conspicuous. If the scratch is still very unsightly, enlist professional help. Contact the installation company to recommend a re-finisher. Replacement is also a consideration.

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