Kabco Fabrications has undertaken refurbishment work to an external fire escape in Southport, addressing deteriorated steelwork and renewing its protective finish.

The existing staircase showed extensive signs of weathering, with corrosion, flaking coatings and a build-up of loose material across the treads, landings and railings. The project involved repairs and surface preparation to support the ongoing maintenance of the structure.

Addressing Corrosion and Deterioration

The photographs show the condition of the fire escape before work began, including rust around tread edges, railing connections and landing areas. The landing plate also showed visible holes, highlighting the importance of looking closely at individual components when planning refurbishment.

External staircases are exposed to moisture throughout the year. As protective coatings break down, corrosion can develop across exposed steelwork and around connections.

Identifying these areas helps establish where repairs, replacement components and surface treatment are required.

Repairing the Existing Fire Escape

The refurbishment involved opening up sections of the landing to access the supporting steelwork beneath. This allowed work to take place beyond the visible walking surface.

Working on an existing staircase requires attention to how its components fit together, including the treads, landings, supporting frame and railings. Targeted refurbishment allows individual areas to be addressed while retaining components that remain suitable for use.

Surface Preparation and Painting

Preparation formed an important part of the work, with loose rust scale and failing coatings removed ahead of painting.

The progress photographs show the exposed steelwork and the application of a new grey coating to sections of the staircase and railings.

Preparing the surface helps the new coating adhere, while renewed protection helps limit exposure of the steel to moisture. The work also improves the appearance of the existing staircase.

The Benefits of Regular Maintenance

Regular inspection and maintenance help building owners identify deterioration before it develops into more extensive damage.

Checking the condition of treads, landing plates, railings and connections can help inform repair priorities and maintenance budgets. Addressing problems promptly can also help preserve serviceable steelwork and reduce the extent of future replacement work.

The Southport project illustrates the practical work involved in maintaining an external fire escape, combining attention to damaged areas with preparation and renewed protection of the existing metalwork.