Black steel doors: Finishes, fingerprints and long-term maintenance

• 19 February 2026
• News

At Crittall we offer a stunning range of colour options for your external doors, sliding doors and interior doors. Whilst many of our customers love the aesthetic of industrial architecture delivered by our iconic black finish, some are concerned by the prospect of maintaining their appearance. It’s a common myth that black frames show every touch, and whilst this may have been the case for the Crittall Windows of days gone by, high-performance modern coatings have largely solved this issue. For external doors, you’ll also find rust and corrosion a thing of the past. Built for longevity, Crittall’s signature protection system—combining galvanisation with Duralife® powder coating—offers an impressive 60-year life expectancy. With routine care, these factory finishes ensure your frames stand the test of time.

So if you’re wondering whether your busy household will be compatible with the visually stunning addition of black steel doors, read on to discover more about black steel doors maintenance and just how easy they are to keep looking their best.

What finish should I choose for my black steel doors?

Black Crittall steel frames and steel entry doors are surprisingly practical when it comes to fingerprints, though the visibility of marks depends mostly on the finish you choose. This will be the biggest factor in how often you’ll feel the need to wipe them down with a soft, damp cloth.

Matte and satin finishes are the most common choices for Crittall frames today. They have a low sheen that diffuses light, making fingerprints, dust, and water spots much less visible than on a high gloss surface, especially with a regular cleaning schedule. While sleek and dramatic, gloss finishes act more like a mirror. They reflect light directly, which makes skin oils and smudges stand out more clearly.

If you’re concerned about fingerprints, and the ongoing maintenance for your back steel doors, choose a matte or satin finish for practicality without compromising on style.

Is it worth paying extra for genuine Crittall black steel doors?

Genuine Crittall black steel doors are manufactured to the highest standards and are designed to last a lifetime, preserving their aesthetic appeal. Our doors are hot-dip galvanised and finished with a high-quality “Duralife” powder coating, which acts as a protective coating, ensuring that the surface of your metal door remains resistant to showing “tacky” fingerprints compared to smooth plastic or painted wood.

Many “Crittall-style” doors are actually made from aluminium, and have a lifespan nowhere near that of genuine Crittall. Some cheaper alternatives also have very smooth, cheap finishes which can be more prone to showing oily marks on the entire door. Speak to a member of our team to learn more about the differences.

Black steel doors maintenance: How much is needed?

If you are worried about high-traffic areas, such as a kitchen, or you have children, you can manage any fingerprints and stubborn stains on your black steel doors very easily. You don’t need heavy degreasers or industrial cleaning products. A mild, non-alkaline detergent and warm water are all that is recommended to protect the powder coating. For internal frames, a quick wipe with a dry microfibre cloth once a week is usually enough to remove any oil buildup and keep your door’s surface looking its very best. Regular maintenance is essential for the proper way to lubricate the hinges and locks on black steel doors; use a silicone-based or light machine oil. Apply sparingly to moving parts, wiping away any excess to prevent buildup and protect the finish and enhanced security features. Avoid using heavy grease, as it can attract dust and detract from the sleek look of the door.

Finally, because Crittall frames are so slim, sometimes people grab the frame itself rather than the door handle. Choosing a prominent, tactile handle for internal doors can encourage users to touch the hardware rather than the black finish.

Ready to learn more about our black steel doors?

Versatile and iconic, our black steel doors seamlessly integrate into heritage, modern, and traditional builds. Take a look at our gallery for more inspiration or let our experts help you navigate performance data and design possibilities tailored to your specific goals. We work alongside architects on landmark projects, developers on modern schemes, and homeowners revitalizing cherished spaces—ensuring every steel window serves as a lasting investment. Browse our stunning and extensive range or reach out to us to discuss your next project here.