Engineering for the elements: a guide to coastal hardware and corrosion protection

Building in coastal areas presents a unique set of challenges - salt-laden air, high humidity, and strong winds all take their toll on buildings. Handles, locks and hinges are particularly at risk from seizing up and corroding in sea air. 

For fabricators and systems designers, choosing corrosion-resistant hardware is crucial to meet regulations, protect your brand reputation, and deliver long-term reliability for your customers.

This guide is designed to support you in making informed, confident decisions when it comes to specifying coastal window and door hardware for corrosion resistance. From understanding the science behind potential damage to navigating building regulations and keeping pace with sustainable trends, we cover it all.

Wait, what do we mean by coastal properties?

First, it’s worth noting what properties should be thought of as ‘coastal’. 

These are typically within 5 miles of the sea or estuaries, where exposure to salt-laden air significantly increases the risk of corrosion. However, microclimates and prevailing winds can push this risk further inland. That’s why it’s essential to assess environmental conditions as part of your specification process, especially when long-term durability and performance are key.

Understanding corrosion resistance in coastal areas

Hardware corrosion in coastal environments is primarily driven by chloride ions from salt spray and high humidity, which accelerate the breakdown of metals. Standard ferrous components often rust quickly, leading to compromised performance and aesthetics.

Why window and door hardware is especially vulnerable to corrosion

Unlike larger structural elements, window and door hardware is made up of small, exposed, and often moving components — handles, hinges, locks, and friction stays — that face constant interaction with outdoor air. Here’s why they’re so susceptible:

• Direct exposure: Hardware is usually mounted at junctions between internal and external environments — areas where salt-laden air easily infiltrates.
  
  
• Micro gaps and joints: Many components have mechanical joints or fasteners that can trap moisture and salt, accelerating galvanic corrosion.
  
  
• Mixed materials: It’s common to see steel screws in aluminium or zinc fittings, leading to electrolytic corrosion unless properly isolated.
  
  
• Continuous movement: Frequent use of windows and doors means coatings can wear away faster, and lubricants can degrade in salty air, exposing metal underneath.
  
  
• Condensation and thermal bridging: Windows and doors are also prone to internal condensation, especially where insulation is poor — adding moisture from both sides.

This combination of environmental exposure, material interaction, and mechanical wear creates the perfect storm for corrosion, particularly in coastal climates. That’s why standard hardware often fails prematurely — and why marine-grade solutions like 316 stainless steel are essential for long-term reliability.

Selecting the right materials for coastal window and door hardware

What makes hardware "marine-grade"?

Marine-grade hardware is engineered to withstand harsh marine conditions:

• Stainless steel (particularly 316 grade) offers high resistance to corrosion, making it deal for coastal door handles, hinges, and locks.
• Aluminium with marine-grade coatings (like anodising or powder coating) provides a balance of strength, weight, and protection from salt in the atmosophere.

Look for hardware components tested in salt spray chambers for evidence of appropriate corrosion resistance.

For more support, you can explore Titon’s door hardware or window hardware catalogue for details on materials and specifications suitable for coastal use.

Can sustainable materials stand up to salt?

Using eco-friendly components doesn’t mean compromising environmental goals:

• Recycled aluminium with marine coatings.

• Sustainably sourced composite materials.

• Use of low-emission processes in manufacturing.

These can support your ESG goals and help you achieve credits under BREEAM and LEED.

Weather-resistant innovation and maintenance tips

Look for suppliers who will provide you with access to cutting-edge corrosion protection technology and the right documentation and advice for aftercare.

Techniques to enhance corrosion resistance

• Electroplating and PVD coatings extend lifespan and reduce maintenance.
  
  
• Gasket and drainage systems that prevent saltwater ingress into joints.
  
  
• Self-healing coatings are becoming more common in high-end hardware applications.

Maintenance best practices

• Regular rinsing with fresh waterto remove salt deposits.
  
  
• Lubricating moving parts with corrosion-resistant greases.
  
  
• Using non-abrasive cloths and pH-neutral cleaners.

Adopting a routine maintenance plan significantly extends the lifecycle of installations, saving time and reducing callbacks.

Navigating building standards and regulations for coastal construction and corrosion control

UK coastal projects are governed by several critical building regulations, including:

• Approved Document A – structural safety.
  
  
• Approved Document F – ventilation, particularly important where salt-laden air can damage components.
  
  
• Approved Document L – airtight, thermally efficient hardware is key to energy performance.
  
  
• Approved Document B – reliable operation of egress hardware under corrosive conditions is essential for fire safety.

Corrosion-resistant hardware should also comply with BS EN 1670, which classifies corrosion performance from grade 1 to grade 5 (with grade 5 suited for marine environments). Your supplier should support compliance by offering design-stage advice, component testing, and documentation aligned to both building regs and British Standards.

Hardware's role in compliance & durability

For example:

• Locking systems must meet PAS 24 for security — even under harsh marine exposure.
  
  
• Ventilation products like Titon’s SF Xtra Sound Attenuator are designed to deliver airflow and acoustic control, while resisting coastal corrosion.
  
  
• Fixings and fasteners should be stainless steel or marine-grade coated to avoid weak points in the assembly.
  
  
• Hardware should be tested and warrantied for longevity to reduce maintenance cycles and protect your reputation.

Conclusion

Corrosion resistance isn’t optional in coastal builds - it’s foundational. The right hardware ensures your parts will live longer, support compliance, and improve the lived experience for occupants. For fabricators, getting the spec right from the start is key to delivering quality and avoiding costly, coastal, aftercare.