Powder Coated Aluminum & Stainless Steel
Powder Coating
Powder coating is a durable, corrosion-resistant finish applied electrostatically and cured under heat, creating a tough "skin" resistant to knocks, scratches, and moisture. The lifespan of the finish is significantly extended by regular, proactive cleaning.
General Cleaning:
Use only water and mild soap (standard dish soap is effective).
Avoid abrasive products, scourers, steel wool, or Scotchbrite, which will damage the finish.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap residue.
Dry with a soft, lint-free cloth to prevent water spots, especially on darker colours or in hard water areas.
Hose off every few weeks to remove loose dirt and prevent buildup.
Promptly wipe up spills.
Consider applying a non-abrasive car wax with UV protection periodically after washing and drying. This adds an extra layer of protection and can enhance shine.
Important Considerations:
Never use abrasive cleaners or high-pressure washers.
Promptly address chips or scratches with a lacquer stick or touch-up paint provided or recommended by us. This is crucial to prevent moisture penetration and subsequent corrosion of the underlying metal.
Avoid harsh chemicals like solvents (acetone, mineral spirits, paint thinner), bleach, and ammonia, which can damage or discolour the coating.
Clean in the shade to prevent soap or water from drying too quickly and causing streaking.
Wash and rinse more frequently in coastal regions or areas with high pollution to remove salt deposits and corrosive particles before they can impact the finish.
Ensure furniture is completely dry before covering or storing to prevent trapped moisture, which can lead to issues like mildew or blistering of the coating over time.
Granite (Parasol Base)
Granite is a hard, durable natural stone resistant to scratches and frost, but it is porous. Sealing is highly recommended and is a proactive step to protect against staining. The porosity means spills left Standing can penetrate the surface.
General Cleaning:
Use water and mild soap (mild dish soap is often sufficient).
Immediately wipe up spills, especially acidic (like fruit juice or vinegar) or oily substances, blotting gently rather than rubbing to prevent spreading.
Use a soft cloth or sponge (microfiber is very effective).
Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap residue.
Dry with a soft cloth to prevent streaks/water spots.
Buffing with a microfiber cloth after drying can restore shine.
Precautions When Using High-Pressure Cleaners:
Can be used with caution for routine outdoor cleaning of the granite base itself, but absolutely avoid high pressure on wooden or delicate components attached to the base.
Use a low pressure setting and PSI.
Maintain a safe distance and use a wide spray nozzle.
Hold the wand at an angle.
Avoid overcleaning the same spot repeatedly.
Best used for rinsing loose dirt; high pressure can potentially damage sealants or the stone surface itself if used improperly.
Precautions Regarding Harsh Chemicals:
Avoid harsh chemicals at all costs, as they can damage the sealant and the stone.
Avoid acidic cleaners (vinegar, lemon juice, citrus-based products) as they can etch the surface.
Avoid ammonia-based cleaners (like some glass cleaners) as they can dull the finish and break down sealants.
Avoid bleach or cleaners containing bleach for routine cleaning; while sometimes recommended for mildew on unsealed stone, they can also affect sealants.
Avoid generic cleaning products; use only those specifically formulated for natural stone/granite.
Neutral pH cleaners are the safest option for regular cleaning.
Avoid abrasive cleaning agents, powders, liquids, scouring pads, steel wool, or hard brushes that can scratch the polished surface.
Important Notes for Granite:
Proactive sealing is key. Seal periodically (annually or every 1-2 years depending on the sealant type and exposure) to protect from stains. Check the sealant effectiveness by seeing if water beads up on the surface; if it soaks in, it's time to reseal.
Clean up spills immediately, especially acidic substances, to prevent etching or staining.
Use coasters and trivets to protect the surface from rings and heat damage.