Care and Maintenance Guide

Care and maintenance of all Spark & Burnish hardware products should be as important as the proper selection and use of all construction materials. Abrasive cleaners, harsh chemicals, or lacquer thinner should not be used to clean the surface of any door hardware. The most commonly used cleaner should be a lightly dampened, clean, cotton cloth. Most manufacturers will void their warranties when products are abused. The use of abrasives and harsh chemicals is often considered abusive treatment. Check mounting fasteners periodically. Retighten if found loose. Apply screw-locking compound or change part fasteners if screws continue to back out.

Stainless steel

Stainless steel needs constant care and preventative maintenance. The surface needs to be wiped dry of moisture daily. This is to prevent the moisture being trapped under a cover of dust or seaspray which results in Tea staining. Stainless steel should be cleaned with ‘White Lilly’ cream cleaner (no abrasive) or a stainless steel cleaner - usually in a spray can. Wipe over surface in direction of linish lines. Stainless steel - Tea staining - Tea staining of stainless steel surfaces can be a problem where there are significant levels of chlorides in water that comes into contact with the metal surface. This can be around the coastal fringes of Australia, or in the interior where ground water contains significant chlorides. Although it does not look very pleasant it tends to be a surface phenomenon only, and does not affect the structural integrity or longevity of the material. The cause of tea staining has been examined in some detail to help evaluate the potential remedies for the condition. Recommendations to help prevent tea staining include correct specification of the grade of stainless steel used, surface finishes to help reduce the problem, as well as maintenance procedures, and preventative coating treatments. Polishes for chromed or lacquered finishes should be used with caution and only by experts since the abrasive action may irreparably damage the surfaces.

Brass

The high polish of Brass products are often treated with a clear protective coating to provide durability. Brass, like sterling silver, will gradually tarnish and take on an antique appearance. Atmospheric conditions, caustic agents such as paints, or scratches from sharp objects may cause the protective coating to crack or peel causing spotting and discolorations.

However, the beauty of the metal can be maintained by taking a few simple steps. Initial care for brass requires only a quick rub with Wax Polish and light buffing with a soft cloth. You may prefer to do this weekly, especially in exterior, often used or damp environments. “Blue Magic” Metal Polish is a quick, effective way of restoring mildly tarnished brassware.

If heavy discoloration occurs the finish can be restored by stripping the remaining lacquer and polishing regularly with “Blue Magic”. Alternatively let it age naturally to an antique finish. The beauty of solid brass is that it can always be restored to its original lustre.

Oil rubbed bronze

Use a soft cloth and 3 in 1 oil, lemon oil, or similar light oil product. Very lightly coat the surface with oil and gently rub the surface to re-blend the finish. Do not rub too hard or you will remove the oxide coating that gives this finish it antique brown finish. It is normal for the oxide to wear off in areas of products that normally are routinely touched such as door pull grip areas.

Chrome, anodised, polished or powdercoated metal surfaces

Clean with a damp, soft cloth or sponge using lukewarm water. Neutral diluted detergent may also be used with lukewarm water. Strong detergents which contain bleach, acid or have an abrasive effect (such as scouring creams) should be avoided. Sponges and scourers made from synthetic fibres or metal which may leave permanent scratches on the surfaces should also be avoided. Ensure product is dried with clean fibre-free cloth after washing.

Leather

Must not be cleaned with water as this may leave marks. It is recommended you use quality leather cleaning products, carefully following the instructions of the manufacturer. In case of doubt test the product on a small area which is normally hidden from view in order to check the result, waiting at least 24 hours to allow any possible problems to develop

Wood, polypropylene, polyethylene or polyurethane surfaces

Marble and Granite

Washing with clean water and a neutral (PH7) detergent soap or cleaner. Following the manufacturer’s directions, wash in small, overlapping sweeps. Rinse thoroughly with clean, potable water to remove all traces of soap or cleaner solution. Dry with a soft cloth and allow to thoroughly air-dry.