How to remove corrosion on shower frame?

[Wifey_diy123]

Hi, we've recently noticed corrosion in the corner of the shower screen door frame? Is it impossible to remove or fix? What can we use to help this situation or prevent it from happening again? 

 

 

[EricL]

Hello @Wifey_diy123 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's marvellous to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your shower frame. 

Corrosion has started to occur on the surface of the aluminium frame of the shower. This is possibly due to soap scum accumulation, calcium deposits from water and a reaction to cleaning chemicals that have sat on the surface for an extended period.

It can be cleaned off using a Sabco Professional Pot And Pan Scourer. Just be aware that any loose material such as the chrome coating on your pivoting hinge that's flaking will get stripped off as well. You will get a dull polish on the cleaned surface, but you'll never get the bright shine of the original. Please don't use the steel wool on the entire frame only on the heavy build up and affected area.   

Please also note that not all of the blemishes will be removed as some of the corrosion might have tarnished the aluminium deeply.

Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves and goggles when cleaning the shower frame.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Wifey_diy123]

Once the surface is cleaned. Should it be sealed with anything for protection? Or is it too far gone? 

[JacobZ]

Hi @Wifey_diy123,

You could use Dulux 300g Metalshield Etch Primer Spraypak Light Grey then Dulux 300G Duramax Appliance Silver Spray Paint to cover the corroded area and offer some protection, but please note that this would only be a temporary fix. The only real way to fix corroded chrome finishes is to replace them altogether, but this would likely require the services of a trained professional.

I just also wanted to point out that glass showers panes can shatter exceptionally easily and it can take only one knock from something hard. Remember your personal protective equipment including safety glasses, cut-resistant gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, trousers and enclosed shoes.

Let me know if you'd like some further advice.

Jacob

[renolife]

It’s because the installer hasn’t used stainless steel screws to fit the screen. Being a damp space with water, ithe screws have rusted and caused a reaction to the aluminium due to the two different metals combining and corrosion has occurred. It’s faulty workmanship and should be replaced by the installer. We’ve unfortunately had it happen twice. 

[JacobZ]

Hi @renolife,

I'd like to extend a warm welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community; it is fantastic to have you with us.

I trust that @Wifey_diy123 appreciates you sharing your experience.

It's certainly possible that this is the cause of the corrosion and if it is possible, speaking with the installer is certainly an option for rectification.

Thank you for sharing your experiences.

Jacob