Whether the bollards on your commercial property are permanent or retractable, they need a little TLC before extreme weather sets in. Snow, sleet, salt, rain, and UV rays are among the many elements taking a toll on your bollards throughout the year, so keep them in great condition by putting the following tips into practice:

Clean Off Debris

Don’t rely solely on rain to clean your bollards. Keep them free of leaves, sand, dirt, rocks, and other debris that make both permanent and retractable bollards look unsightly in addition to interfering with retractable bollard mechanisms. Use a broom to sweep debris away from your bollards and finish the job with a wet/dry vacuum.

Look For Structural Damage

Identify any signs of surface or structural damage that will worsen under piles of snow or serious rain. Look for scratches, nicks, and dents, as well as graffiti and similar vandalism. Repair any damage as soon as possible; if the bollard has sustained severe damage it might be time to replace it.

Remove Rust

In addition to identifying and correcting structural and surface damage such as scratches and dents, look for rust. Oxidation spreads like a virus to weaken your bollards, resulting in premature replacements. Rid stainless steel bollards of rust with a scouring pad and all- purpose lubricant, and be sure to remove the rust with the grain instead of against it. Use abrasive sandpaper on powder coated bollards before sealing them with primer and the correlating topcoat.

De-Ice As Needed

De-ice your retractable bollards as necessary to prevent rust and mechanical issues. Use alcohol-based products or quality de-icing solutions and follow with a lubricant to prevent icing issues in the future. Add lubrication throughout the season if temperatures stay frigid.

Utilize Powder Coatings

Take advantage of powder coatings to keep your permanent and retractable bollards in excellent condition for years. Powder coatings containing epoxy primer protect against everything Mother Nature throws at your bollards and provides protection from corrosion and abrasive materials. Finish coating your bollards with polyester top coats to add chalk resistance since epoxy coats tend to chalk after weeks or months of elemental exposure. The epoxy/polyester combination forms an effective barrier that protects your bollards against snow, sleet, hail, rain, and sunlight. Choose from a comprehensive range of bollards at 1800Bollards. Visit our website today to learn what our team will do for your business or organization.