OT: Grab rails for front porch steps.

[Clarence Martin]

Need to install a couple of grab rails on the front porch steps. Got 2 that are that brushed stainless steel, and will fit perfectly.

Question:

They are originally for Bathrooms, but since they are Stainless Steel, will they hold up to the weather year round ?

[Jamie Buxton]

Maybe, maybe not. Stainless steel is a whole family of steels. They're all resistant to rusting, but some of them are lots better than others. Probably the makers of your grab rails aren't telling what kind of stainless they used, so you can't really know what will happen. But I'd install them and see what happens.

[Lee Schierer]

Most likely your rails are a 300 series stainless and if so it should be fine outdoors. Check it with a magnet and if it is non-magnetic you should be good to go.

[Rich Enders]

Clarence,

Most all SS is rust resistant, but can still tarnish, and nearly all grades will corrode if exposed to chlorides (with the possible exception of 316). SS is a good choice unless you live near an ocean, or other source of salts.

But isn't this a woodworking forum? How about some wood choices....... (just kidding).