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CARE AND MAINTENANCEOF PREFINISHED SHEET STEEL PRODUCTSJULY, 2025%u2022 When storing outdoors is unavoidable, the following is recommended:(1) use good covers, loosely shrouded over stacks and firmly anchored to prevent wind blow off, but plastic covers should not be used for storage(2) tilt bundles for drainage(3) ventilate bundles but do not allow entry of wind-driven rain(4) block bundles off the ground for effective drainage and ventilation(5) block long panels to prevent sagging(6) store out of direct sunlight if possible(7) store away from chemically aggressive substances (e.g. salt, cement, fertilizer), away from material that could contaminate the surface (e.g. diesel oil, paint, grease) and away from site traffic.%u2022 Shipments of bundled cladding panels should be inspected upon delivery.%u2022 Moisture can cause wet storage staining of prefinished material and usually occurs in one of three ways: (1) condensation from high humidity and/or temperature cycling; (2) wet shipping conditions; or (3) wind -driven rain penetration (outdoor storage). The usual progression is from visible water staining to unsightly white staining (dark grey to dull black on aluminum- zinc alloy coated material) to red rust. On material where wet storage staining has occurred, it should be noted that nominal amount of white staining is not detrimental to the functioning of the product and is usually considered acceptable.FIELD PAINTING & TOUCH-UP%u2022 Painting over a new installation is not recommended. All coil coated paint films have internal additives that do not allow good adhesion between field-applied paint and the coilcoated paint layer. Also, because touch-up paint will not last as long as the original, keep the touch-up to a minimum. A small artist%u2019s brush or a small air brush should be used. For additional guidance about painting, refer to CSSBI Fact Sheet 4: Painting of Prefinished Sheet Steel.%u2022 Replace a panel rather than attempt to touch-up large areas; a spot 20mm (3/4%u201d) in diameter will become more prominent in time. For repainting, consult a fabricator member of the CSSBI who will provide recommendations.MAINTENANCE%u2022 A thorough building clean-up after completion of construction should be conducted to remove all debris, metal filings, metal fines, etc. from walls and roofs.%u2022 An occasional cleaning of prefinished material can extend the service life and help to maintain the appearance of the finish. For protected areas (i.e. overhangs) an annual spring cleaning is recommended. Simply washing with plain water using hoses or pressure sprays is often sufficient. Waxing is an additional method of prolonging the service life of prefinished material.%u2022 In areas where heavy dirt deposits dull the surface, a solution of water and detergent may be used: 100ml (1/3 cup) of a typical laundry powder detergent per 4 litres (1 gallon) of water. A soft bristle brush should be used for scrubbing followed by a clear water rinse.%u2022 Mildew may occur in areas subject to high humidity. To remove mildew along with the dirt, the following is suggested: (1) 100ml (1/3 cup) laundry detergent (2) 200ml (2/3 cup) trisodium phosphate (TSP) (3) 1 litre (1 quart) 5% sodium hypochlorite solution(laundry bleach) (4) 3 litres (3 quarts) water Use in a well ventilated area and follow with clear water rinse.%u2022 Solvent and abrasive cleaners should be avoided. Caulking compounds, oils, grease, tars, wax and similar substances can be removed with mineral spirits applied only to the affected areas. Detergent cleaning and thorough rinsing should follow the use of solvent.For More InformationAdditional information on prefinished sheet steel is available inthe CSSBI Bulletin B1 6-94, Prefinished Sheet Steel for BuildingConstruction For more information about prepainted sheet steelproducts, contact the CSSBI for a list of the Fabricator Membersin your area.