CONCRETE
COUNTERTOPS - Click
for printable instructions
We deliver our products sealed & finished with at least one coat
of wax. We recommend two more wax applications in the first month of
use.
The wax we use is a Bee’s Wax with a solvent that allows penetration
into the concrete surface. These additional coats will help “season”
the surface and even variations in sheen.
- Clean
counters with a mild neutral ph soap and water applied with
a soft cloth, (we recommend micro fiber.)
- Do not
use abrasive cleaners or heavy duty detergents, such as: Ajax
or Comet or any citrus-based products, as these are extremely
aggressive and will rapidly remove the wax and could scratch
the surface. Any cleaning with soap will remove the wax to
some degree, therefore, periodic wax application is recommended.
Water spotting is the easiest way to detect when wax application
is needed.
- Apply
the wax with a white Scotch Brite Pad or other non-abrasive
pad, rubbing in a circular motion, over one section at a time.
Work in 2 ft. by 2 ft. sections; avoid waxing the entire counter
at once because within 10 minutes the wax starts to dry. The
harder it gets, the more elbow grease will be needed to buff
it.
- Within
ten minutes of application begin buffing with a clean pad
to remove excess wax and polish the surface. At this point
water should bead on the surface and not leave spots, and
the surface should have a soft, low reflective shine.
- Be careful
when preparing acidic foods such as citrus; always use a cutting
board such as wood or bamboo. We have had experience with
plastic cutting boards that reacted with topical sealers and
actually lifted the sealer.
- If citric
juice contacts the surface wipe it up with water as soon as
possible. If citrus juice is left in contact for a prolonged
period etching can occur. This will show up as a light colored
spot.
- Etching
spots can be removed by sanding the surface with wet/dry 600
grit sand paper or diamond sanding pads for tough spots. Also,
an application of wax at the etched spot will “hide”
or cover the spot, reducing visibility.
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KITCHEN
SINKS
Of all the products we produce kitchen sinks get the most abuse. We
recommend waxing as often as weekly as a soapy water solution will
remove wax as it is used.
Reseal sink surfaces at least bi-annually. If practical use a plastic
tub in the sink for the soap solution when washing dishes or utensils.
Concrete sinks will last for years (remember concrete stationary tubs?)
but, they will patina with use.
The surfaces can be refurbished with diamond sanding to look like
new, but this will have to be done professionally.
BATHROOM VANITIES AND SINKS
Same as countertops.
FURNITURE SURFACES
Same care as wood furniture using our recommended wax.
FIREPLACES
For sealed only surfaces, clean with mild soap and water occasionally,
and use a dust cloth regularly.
EXTERIOR SURFACES (COUNTERS)
Reseal annually-we do not recommend using wax on exterior surfaces
as it will require constant reapplication if exposed to the sun. We
do use topical water based acrylic sealers on exterior applications
when it best suits our customer’s needs.
CAST STONE PRODUCTS
Cast stone products, tiles, pavers, fountains, our recommendations
are based on your specific needs and expectations for these products,
as sealers will change the aging characteristics of these products.
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