Guide To Marine-Grade Outdoor Lighting and Ceiling Fans

Every year, homeowners must replace or repair exterior fixtures and décor as a result of damage due to water exposure, increment weather, or temperature fluctuations. The risk of damage to your home’s exterior fixtures increases in coastal environments, where salt in the air leads to corrosion and rust, and in areas that frequently experience extreme weather. The best way you can prepare your home and preserve your fixtures is by installing marine-grade pieces.

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To help you ensure your home is prepared for extreme weather, this article focuses on marine-grade lighting and ceiling fans. It provides insights into what marine-grade lights and ceiling fans are, the characteristics of such products, and why they are popular. Finally, we have also included a brief guide to help you identify the main features and factors to consider when buying marine-grade lighting products and ceiling fans.

A Pair of Outdoor Wall Lantern Lights

What Does Marine Grade Mean?

You would not be wrong in assuming that anything described as marine-grade is a product designed for use in marine environments. The ability of these products to withstand the most brutal weather conditions has made them popular among home-builders all over the world. 

Marine-grade materials are tough, durable, and made of special composite materials. This is why they are favored for creating excellent-quality home fittings.

Marine-grade products are designed to withstand marine-level elements such as storms, corrosion from saltwater, and rough contact. These products are made from sophisticated materials like molybdenum, carbon steel, silicon bronze, and more. Every manufacturer maintains their own, unique composite and manufacturing process for marine-grade fixtures.

80″ Kichler Lehr Climates Black Finish Modern Outdoor Ceiling Fan

Marine-grade materials are often galvanized (dipped in hot zinc) or anodized (electrolytic acid bath) to prevent saltwater corrosion. Other practices include resilient coating treatments and the use of molybdenum.

Examples of marine-grade metals are brass; silicon-bronze, aluminum-bronze, and phosphor-bronze alloys; copper-nickel alloys; most stainless steels; certain grades of aluminum; alloy steel; some, but not all, carbon steels; and galvanized steel, depending on the temperature.

Apart from using metals that exhibit resilience and maintain their properties in rugged environments, it is also important to look at the glass used to house marine-grade lighting. The design and type of glass should not allow for dirt and dust to stick to it, which will ensure that the glass remains cleaner for longer while being easy to clean when the time comes.

For ceiling fans, marine-grade wood may be used. However, such wood must be manufactured and treated to resist water and other weather elements.

The Basics of Marine-Grade Lighting and Fans

To fully understand how marine-grade ceiling fans and lighting equipment work, it is important to assess them based on three key metrics: grade ratings (damp and wet ratings), energy efficiency, and reliability.

Hinkley Republic 20″ High Black Outdoor Wall Light
 

Grade Ratings (Damp or Wet Ratings)

Marine-grade lighting should be designed for use in demanding outdoor conditions. Three independent bodies—CSA International (CSA), Intertek (ETL), and Underwriters Laboratories (UL)—oversee the assessment of the quality of this equipment, providing an easy way to determine whether products advertised as marine-grade are actually marine-grade.

Damp-rated lighting equipment and ceiling fans are designed for use in covered outdoor spaces and should not have direct exposure to water. Ideally, they should be installed in covered patios and porches. This Stonington Outdoor Hanging Light, from Quoizel, is an excellent example of a damp location-rated lighting fixture.

Wet-rated lighting equipment is designed for outdoor use in places often directly exposed to water, being able to operate during rainfall without issue. An excellent example of this would be the Aluminum Outdoor Wall Lights. These lights can be found outdoors lighting pathways, water features, or swimming pools.

Energy Efficiency

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, “Outdoor lighting consumes a significant amount of energy—about 1.3 quadrillion Btu annually—costing about $10 billion per year.” Therefore, using energy-efficient marine-grade lighting is important to conserve energy and save on electricity bills.

Outdoor lights that use LED bulbs are an excellent option for energy-efficient lighting. LED bulbs also last between four and six years, even in outdoor environments with extreme temperatures. 

Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFLs) are a great alternative to standard incandescent bulbs. They do not save as much energy as LEDs, but they do save costs when compared to traditional incandescent lights. However, they are not the best option for cold climates, with LED’s providing better performance, energy saving, and lifetime hours.

52″ Modern Forms Wynd Matte Black Wet Location LED Smart Ceiling Fan

Reliability

Lighting should be reliable, aside from possessing the ability to brave harsh weather and save energy.

When a manufacturer states that a marine-grade fan or light is “reliable”, it means that the product will work as expected if used under specific conditions. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the ceiling fan or light fixture you select is suitable for the specific environment where your home is located.

You should also choose lighting or ceiling fans that will work in the environmental conditions of your home. No matter how reliable a product is, it will fail when used in conditions it was not designed to accommodate. 

Buying Marine-Grade Lighting and Ceiling Fans

Several factors should be considered before buying marine-grade fixtures. These include the type of marine-rated fixtures, the purpose for buying the fixture, and your location.

Types of Marine-Grade Lighting and Ceilings Fans

Marine-grade lights and ceiling fans vary depending on their placement and use. An excellent example of a great outdoor lighting fixture would be the Republic outdoor wall light from Hinkley. The shapes and sizes of outdoor wall lights vary greatly, with different sizes serving different purposes around the home.

Outdoor pendants are also a popular design for marine-grade fixtures. These are great for illuminating front porches, especially in multi-story buildings. The Republic outdoor hanging light from Hinkley exemplifies this type of marine-grade fixture. Outdoor ceiling fans, such as the 80-inch Lehr outdoor ceiling fan from Kichler, are also a popular choice for enhancing porches and patios.

Hinkley Republic 16 3/4″ High Black Outdoor Hanging Light

Portable outdoor LED lanterns are yet another great outdoor lighting solution. These are especially useful for providing illumination during outdoor activities in areas without enough lighting, during blackouts, or simply when you need to supplement existing outdoor lighting.

Intended Purpose

Before purchasing, it is important to consider why you want to invest in marine-grade lights and ceiling fans. Is utility your primary reason, or are you more concerned with aesthetics? If aesthetics are your primary concern, you may be willing to pay more for marine-grade lights and ceiling fans based on how great they will look in your desired location. 

On the utility front, you need to decide what you will use the light or ceiling fan for. When you know the exact purpose of your fixture that will make it easier for any specialists to direct you to the right product. 

For example, individuals fishing at night often rely on water-resistant marine-grade LED underwater boat lights. Other types of marine-grade lighting used in the fishing industry include navigation lights, remote spotlights, spreader lights, floodlights, docking lights, and courtesy lights.

Location

Outdoor lighting and ceiling fan needs vary based on location. Many components, even in marine-grade fixtures, are designed for specific local conditions and may not function properly outside of those specific conditions. For example, this article mentioned earlier that, while CFLs are great, they are not the best option for lighting in cold conditions.

Outdoor ceiling fans may also provide optimal functionality in colder areas. In some colder areas, porches and patios will likely only need outdoor lighting, rather than outdoor lighting and an outdoor ceiling fan.

In coastal regions where salt spray, air from the ocean, and harsh winds are a constant threat, marine-grade fittings work best. Their anti-corrosion reinforcements, which they gain through the galvanizing and anodizing processes, make them ideal for such regions. If you live in a coastal region, utility may take precedence over aesthetics.

Aside from considering your geographical location, you should also take into account the specific location(s) in the building where you intend to install your marine-grade fittings. There are three locations to consider; dry locations, damp locations, and wet locations.

WAC LEDme 5″ Wide Steel Horizontal 3000K LED Step Light

Dry Locations

As mentioned earlier, some marine-grade fittings are not designed for use in spaces with direct, or even indirect, contact with water. Such fittings should be installed in covered spaces like the patio. These items are designed to resist harsh winds or salt exposure, but are not designed with moisture in mind.

Damp Locations

Many marine-grade fittings are better able to withstand the effects of indirect or infrequent precipitation. Such fittings can be installed in spaces where they are likely to come across water or moisture periodically. You will typically find these lights and fans in spaces like basements, decks, or doorways. 

Hinkley Chatham 8 1/4″ Wide Museum Black Outdoor Ceiling Light

Wet Locations

Some outdoor lights and ceiling fans are manufactured to weather direct exposure to moisture and water, such as rainfall. These types of items are in rooftop spaces, verandas, and fences.

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An outdoor fan like the 52-inch Wynd LED smart ceiling fan, from Modern Forms, is a quintessential wet location fixture. Many marine-grade fixtures can withstand conditions for several years when installed in wet environments.

Marine Grade is the Future

Marine-grade outdoor ceiling fans and lights remain relevant in many aspects of use, both within and around the outside of the home. With assured quality, durability, and great aesthetics, it is likely that marine-grade features will continue to be part of many homes in the future.

Unfortunately, the extreme weather triggered by climate change will be with going into the future. Consequently, the ability of home fixtures to withstand the elements will become a huge consideration when building a new home, or renovating an old one.

As a passionate DIYer, you know how important it is to use high-quality materials in your projects. When it comes to metal components, you can’t get much better than stainless steel. Valued for its versatility, stainless steel is a favorite among DIYers of all stripes. Two popular stainless steel grades, or types, are 304 and 316. They’re very similar, but there are some factors to consider when choosing between them. This blog compares the top features and recommended uses of 304 and 316 stainless steel.

What Is Stainless Steel Made Of?

Before we discuss features, it’s important to cover what stainless steel contains. Stainless steel is an alloy, or a mixture, of several elements. Iron is the most abundant material in all grades of stainless steel. Beyond that, different grades contain different ratios of other elements. One grade may have an element that another doesn’t.

That’s the case with 304 and 316 stainless steel. Here is a summary of the contents of each grade:

304 Stainless Steel

• Chromium: approx. 18-20%.
• Nickel: approx. 8-10.5%.
• Manganese: max 2%.
• Silicon: max 1%.
• Carbon: max 0.08%.
• Phosphorus: max 0.045%.
• Sulfur: max 0.03%.
• Other trace elements, including nitrogen and molybdenum.

316 Stainless Steel

• Chromium: approx. 16-18%.
• Nickel: approx. 10-14%.
• Molybdenum: approx. 2-3%.
• Manganese: max 2%.
• Silicon: max 1%.
• Carbon: max 0.08%.
• Phosphorus: max 0.045%.
• Sulfur: max 0.03%.
• Other trace elements, including nitrogen.

As you can see, 304 and 316 have different amounts of chromium and nickel. 316 also has a measurable amount of molybdenum, while 304 contains very little. The amount of each element in a grade of steel affects that grade’s final properties:

• Chromium improves corrosion resistance, strength, hardness and high-temperature resistance.
• Nickel increases corrosion resistance, ductility and toughness. It also boosts high-temperature strength and stability, and low-temperature toughness and impact resistance.
• Molybdenum contributes to strength and high-temperature stability. However, its main purpose is to enhance corrosion resistance.

So, it makes sense that steel grades with different contents don't have the same capabilities. Let’s discuss the top features of 304 and 316 stainless steel to help you decide which one is best for your needs.

Stainless Steel Features

Corrosion Resistance

Stainless steel has exceptional resistance to corrosion. It's perfect for exposure to environmental factors such as humidity, moisture and salt. Corrosion resistance is mainly a concern for marine and outdoor applications.

304 and 316 are both good marine stainless steel options. This dodger frame is a combination of 304 and 316 components.

When it comes to choosing between 304 and 316 for corrosion resistance, there is one clear winner. Higher concentrations of nickel and molybdenum give 316 superior corrosion resistance over 304.

316 is ideal for applications that will be partially or constantly outdoors — especially if water is involved. 316 stands strong against corrosive agents such as moisture, humidity and salt. In the marine world, 316 is perfect for:

• Liveaboard sailors.
• Boats that get year-round use (especially in humid environments).
• Boats that are used on saltwater.
• Permanent outdoor structures such as shade sails.
• And more.

304’s corrosion resistance isn’t on par with 316’s, but it still stands strong against corrosive agents. It has a respectable amount of nickel and even more chromium than 316. So, 304 stainless steel is still a good choice for marine applications! Just know that it’s better suited for occasional-use or freshwater boats. Heavy use, extreme humidity and constant saltwater exposure cause 304 to corrode faster than 316 in the same conditions.

Not a sailor? No problem. Both metals can be used indoors and for craft applications.

Strength & Durability

The next factor to consider is strength. Both grades offer impressive strength and durability for marine and non-marine projects. However, 316 has an advantage in this category as well.

316 stainless steel hardware is a go-to option for shade sails and other load-bearing assemblies.

Chromium and molybdenum also give 316 extra strength compared to 304. Nickel helps too, but its effect on strength is mostly temperature-dependent. (More on that in the next section.)

316 takes on heavy-duty projects and permanent outdoor use with ease. DIYers utilizing this steel can confidently create robust, sturdy outdoor or load-bearing structures. Even under harsh conditions and marine environments, 316 hardware remains durable and functional.

But 304 is no slouch in the strength department either. Boasting good tensile strength, 304 is ideal for projects that need robust yet lightweight hardware. This includes most craft applications and general sailing needs. (But note that 304 may show weakness in high-stress situations.) Choose 304 for bag hardware, garment fasteners and other light- to medium-duty DIY needs.

Temperature Tolerance

Another thing to consider is whether you'll use stainless steel in extreme temperatures. Under normal conditions, heat and cold exposure shouldn’t be a problem. 304 and 316 both perform well in temperatures typical of most DIY and marine settings.

If you need stainless steel that can tolerate excessive heat (such as an industrial setting) or cold (such as climates near the poles) for short periods of time, 304 and 316 are both good options.

316 has a slight advantage over 304 in this area due to its molybdenum content. However, the difference is negligible. High nickel content helps both grades resist temperatures from about -50º F (-45ºC) to about 1,400ºF (925ºC) for short periods of time without weakening much.

On the flip side, long periods of time in these temperatures cause the steel to weaken and corrode easier. If you need stainless steel for a project that will be exposed to extreme temperatures consistently, 304 and 316 may not be right for you.

Cost

Finally, let’s cover cost. Choosing a stainless steel grade can have a big impact on your DIY budget. 304 and 316 offer great value for the money considering their long-lasting properties. But one may be a better fit for your budget (and your project needs) than the other.

304 is generally more budget friendly due to its lower nickel and molybdenum content. Molybdenum is a rare metal, so it makes sense that the steel with less molybdenum is less expensive. 304 is also easier to make and is more in demand due to its versatility, so it’s produced in greater volumes than 316. This grade is a great choice for DIYers seeking a cost-effective option without sacrificing quality.

On the other hand, 316 may be best for DIYers whose biggest concern is performance over cost. Molybdenum is rare and expensive, but it does greatly increase 316’s corrosion resistance. Because of this, manufacturers often position 316 as a premium or specialty grade and charge more for its added benefits. 316 is worth the investment for projects requiring weather resistance and enhanced durability.

Recommended Uses

Examples of 304 stainless steel items in action.

304 is a versatile material that is used in various industries and environments. Common uses include:

• Nuts, bolts, screws and other fasteners.
• Garment and bag hardware.
• Deck hardware, railings and interior fittings for boats in freshwater or less harsh environments.
• Jewelry and clasps.
• Home décor and functional household items.
• Decorative elements.
• Projects where cost is a major deciding factor.

While 304 is a popular choice in many applications, it isn’t the best choice for some situations:

• Highly corrosive environments.
• Long-term exposure to high temperatures.
• Long-term exposure to low temperatures.
• Heavy load-bearing applications requiring extremely high strength and hardness.
• Highly abrasive environments or heavy-wear projects.
• High-sulfur environments.

Examples of 316 stainless steel items in action.

Now let’s see how 316 stacks up. 316 is particularly good for aggressive/corrosive substances or environments. Common uses for this grade include:

• Marine equipment, riggings, propellers and fittings exposed to saltwater.
• Outdoor items subjected to weather exposure, such as patio furniture.
• High-temperature applications.
• High-pollution areas.
• Many load-bearing applications.
• Springs and fasteners.
• Other applications where corrosion resistance is critical.

However, 316 isn’t the most suitable option for all situations, including:

• Projects where extra corrosion resistance isn’t needed.
• Projects where cost is a major deciding factor.
• Low-oxygen environments, such as deep-sea or vacuum applications.
• High-sulfur or strongly acidic environments.
• Long-term exposure to high temperatures.
• Extremely high-stress applications.
• Long-term exposure to low temperatures.

Each stainless steel grade has its niche in marine, sewing and other DIY projects. You should carefully consider your project needs and uses before choosing a stainless steel.

Summary & Conclusion

304 and 316 stainless steel are suitable for a wide range of applications in the crafting world. When selecting the appropriate grade for your sewing projects, make sure to consider the following factors:

• Indoor vs. Outdoor Use: Will your project primarily be used indoors or outdoors?
• Corrosion Resistance: Will your project be exposed to moisture, humidity, saltwater or other corrosive agents?
• Strength & Durability: How much mechanical strength and durability does your project need?
• Temperature Tolerance: Will your project will be exposed to extreme heat or cold?
• Budget: Which grade's cost fits in your budget?

The choice between 304 and 316 stainless steel ultimately depends on your specific project needs and budget. Whether you’re shopping for boat hardware, bag hardware or something in between, 304 and 316 stainless steel are two high-quality options for your DIY needs.

We hope this blog has helped you select the best stainless steel grade for your next project. If you’re still unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out! Our customer service team is available by phone, email and the chat function on our website. We’re ready to help empower you to make an informed decision for your next DIY masterpiece.

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