The goal of the research in this thesis was to survey how protect stainless steel surfaces. In the research, three different impregnation agents were used. The test object was a stainless steel surface elevator.

The theoretical section of this thesis consisted of a definition of stainless steel, cleaning methods, cleaning towels, detergents, and of how to clean and polish stainless steel. Research was conducted within two corporations, KiiltoClean Oy and HH-kiinteistöpalvelut Oy. Proper tests were executed in eleven different elevators in spring 2007.

The research confirmed the same thing that had come out in the theoretical section, that impregnation agents protect surfaces and prevent dirt from sticking to the surface. This thesis also confirmed that protected surfaces look more upscale and appear clean longer. The test also showed that surfaces must be protected regularly because impregnation agents wear off due to the efficiency of cleaners and mechanics.

The result of this thesis was used in the development of a new impregnation agent.