Metal finishing Q&As since 1989

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Ocean cottage lighting fixtures

January 31, 2010

Hey,
In need of some advice on how to locate seaworthy, non corrosive, light fixtures for oceanside cottage in Bahamas. So far I've spent countless hours researching products, many of which look fabulous and sturdy yet company doesn't clarify if they've been salt-tested for corrosion. I'm wondering if Hanover company is the only one with the nanocoating technology, giving a lifetime guarantee for even the harshest of environments.

So far, my searches have been tedious at best. Nanocoating technology used by Hanover seems to be hydrophobic coating that has lifetime guarantee. Yet, their styles are limited in what would be appropriate with ocean cottages. The company Maxim uses Vivex, a non-corrosive, 3 yr warranty material and styles are more in keeping with nautical, casual look. Twice as strong as resin. What is the word on best outdoor lighting options that will not corrode with salt air and occasional waves splashing up? Welcome your input. Jennifer

Jennifer Andrews
consumer - Middleburg,Virginia

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February 1, 2010

Hi, Jennifer. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, or to discourage research. But as a fellow consumer my whole life, and a metal finishing specialist my whole career, I don't think a consumer (including myself) has much chance of predicting the durability of a finished item from first principles. There are too many fine details in any finishing process to judge its fitness from sales literature. The best warranty and the best reputation are your best tools, I'm afraid.

But let me know if I can run down there to assess the environment :-)

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey