Black steel doors: finishes, maintenance and fingerprints myth-busting 

• 13 November 2025
• News

Imagine the scene: you’ve recently had beautiful, pristine black steel internal doors fitted just in time for Christmas. Then along comes a squad of juvenile visitors, hands outstretched far enough to leave fingermarks all over your frames. Out comes the cloth and cleaning fluid for the umpteenth time, as you silently wish that you’d stuck with wooden doors instead. 

However, if maintenance and the ever-present threat of fingerprints are preventing you from investing in black steel doors, then read on – because this blog is here to discover the truth behind the myths, and what to expect from genuine, high-performance Crittall black steel doors. 

Setting the standard in finish and quality

Crittall’s black steel doors are precision engineered from hot-dip galvanised steel, creating a structure that is incredibly strong, yet elegantly slim. Each door is then powder coated in any RAL, BS or bespoke colour. While black remains the most iconic, the range extends far beyond it, from warm neutrals and cool greys to rich architectural tones. 

These coatings are applied using advanced processes that ensure lasting adhesion and colour stability. The result is a surface that resists corrosion, fading and damage, even in areas exposed to moisture or frequent use. For those who prefer a softer visual texture, matte and satin finishes reduce reflection and lend a refined, contemporary look that works beautifully with both industrial and minimal design schemes. 

The fingerprint myth

Let’s clear up the fingerprint dilemma once and for all. The belief that black steel doors show every mark is largely a hangover from older, high-gloss coatings. In reality, modern finishes have transformed how steel behaves in everyday life. 

Matte and satin coatings are exceptionally effective at concealing fingerprints, water spots and dust. Their low sheen gently diffuses light, making smudges far less noticeable. High-gloss finishes, while dramatic, will naturally reflect more light and therefore reveal surface marks more easily. So if your doors will be in a busy household or commercial space, a matte or satin finish offers the best balance of visual appeal and minimal upkeep. 

In short, fingerprints are not the problem they once were, and with a simple wipe from a soft cloth, your black steel doors will look immaculate again. 

Low maintenance by design

Steel doors may look delicate thanks to their slim profiles, but they are built to withstand the test of time. Occasional cleaning with mild soap and water is usually all that’s needed to keep them looking their best. There’s no need for polishing, repainting or frequent maintenance routines. Their inherent strength and quality hardware – including multipoint locking systems and precision-engineered hinges – ensure reliable performance year after year. 

Adaptable style for every space

Black steel doors complement almost any architectural style. Internally, they make ideal room dividers, pivot doors or French doors, defining areas without blocking light or visual flow. Externally, they work beautifully as feature entrances or patio doors. 

Their classic design also supports flexibility: large glass panels maximise natural light, while slim frames minimise obstruction. Combined with an array of glazing and hardware options, black steel doors can be tailored to meet specific needs, from older buildings to contemporary designs. 

The lasting benefits of steel

Steel is inherently sustainable, made from 100% recycled material and fully recyclable at the end of its life. Its strength-to-weight ratio creates a feeling of openness and connection that few other materials can match. Crittall’s black steel doors deliver comfort, energy efficiency and peace of mind alongside their unmistakable aesthetic appeal. 

The verdict

Black steel doors offer a balance of design and practicality that has stood the test of time. Their sleek appearance, minimal upkeep and versatility make them a smart, enduring investment for modern and older homes, and commercial settings alike. 

And as for those fingerprints? They’re little more than a myth – easily managed, quickly wiped away and never enough to dull the beauty of a true Crittall door. 

• Explore Crittall’s range of finishes and request a colour sample pack to discover the perfect black steel doors for your project.