Regular steel hardware is recommended for indoor applications, excluding areas that may be wet or humid such as bathrooms. Regular steel can also be used outside as long as it does not get wet and/or is not exposed to salty air.
Stainless steel hardware is recommended in two situations: 1) Since stainless steel is highly corrosion resistant, it is great for installations in wet, very humid, or salty air environments. Examples include outdoor patios, pergolas, bathrooms, and beach homes. 2) Stainless steel is required if you'd like the Brushed Stainless or Glossy Brass finish. In addition to these finishes, stainless steel can also be powder-coated in any of our other finishes.
If your drapery hardware will be outside and will receive lots of direct sunlight, we recommend the Brushed Stainless finish. Our other finishes are also great for outdoors but may dull over the years if exposed to significant amounts of sunlight. We do not recommend the Glossy Brass finish if the hardware is receiving even a moderate amount of direct sunlight.
Note that if stainless steel is exposed to any chemical that ends in "-ine" or "-ide", it may rust. We recommend periodically wiping it clean to remove organic buildup with plain water or a mild soap solution. Stainless steel cleaners can be used as well.
