| Congratulation on selecting AWS approved hardware. With care and regular cleaning, your hardware products will have a long life and stay in good condition for many years. Just as washing your car is important for removing dirt and grime, your hardware products need to be given a regular wash to keep them looking smart and performing well. | |
| The effects of ultra violet light, atmospheric pollution, general dirt and grime, along with airborne salt deposits can all accumulate over time and should be removed at regular intervals. | |
| As a general rule, cleaning should take place at least every six months. In areas where environmental deposits are more prevalent, such as beach-front houses and industrial areas, then cleaning should be carried out on a more frequent basis i.e. two or three months. | |
| Three steps to cleaning Powdercoated hardware | |
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Remove loose deposits with a wet sponge rather than risk scratching the surface with dry dusting. |
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Using a soft brush/cloth and soap or a mild household detergent in warm water, clean the surface to remove dust, salt and other deposits. |
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Always rinse with fresh water after cleaning to remove any remaining detergent. |
| Precautions for Powdercoated Hardware | |
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NEVER use aggressive solvent cleaners on the product i.e. thrinners and petrol. |
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AVOID the use of solvents near joints or plastic components. |
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NEVER use anything abrasive i.e. steel wool, scrapers, scouring liquid or powders. |
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Ensure that the detergent is thoroughly rinsed from the product surface. |
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PROTECT all powdercoated hardware if painting. When paint or plaster has spilled on the powdercoated surface, remove immediately with water or methylated spirits. (prolonged use of methylated spirits is not recommended and if used should be rinsed off immediately using clean water. Test a small area first to ensure that no damage to the surface or colour change will occur). |
| Caring for Stainless Steel Products | |
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ALWAYS CLEAN AND RINSE stainless steel that may have come in contact with construction cleaning chemicals or their vapours immediately. |
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CLEAN REGULARLY using detergent and warm water, rinse with fresh water and dry afterwards. |
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CLEAN STAINS and DISCOLOURATION with citric or nitric acid based cleaners or mild abrasive detergents like Jif. Rinse with fresh water and dry. |
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NEVER allow construction cleaning chemicals (or any other cleaning chemical) to remain in contact or ‘pool’ on stainless steel. |
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CLEAN with a soft damp cloth or dry duster. |
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NEVER allow salt deposits to build up on stainless steel product. |
