CARE & MAINTENANCE
 
We encourage you to take a few moments and read through this informative care and maintenance guide. You’ll learn everything you need to know to keep your countertop, sink and or other architectural piece beautiful and looking like new. For best results, follow these simple care guidelines. 
 

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IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR NEW INSTALLATIONS

• DO NOT clean or scrub the surface for at least 72 hours. Quickly clean up spills, during this period.AVIOD moisture on surface for 72 hours.
• DO NOT allow standing water on surface for the first 14 days.
• DO NOT cover with protective plastic sheeting, mats, etc. that can prevent proper drying for the first 14 days. Covering the surface can retard curing and result in a cloudy or whitening effect
• Maximum sealer performance will take up to a few months to develop, depending on temperature and humidity. 

GENERAL CARE AND PROTECTION OF CONCRETE COUNTERTOPS AND OR SINKS

• For the first 4-6 weeks do not leave any items on concrete for a prolonged period of time, including dish or hand towels. Take extra care to wipe up any liquids immediately.
  
• Wipe up spills as they occur.
  
• Do not clean or scrub surface for the first 72 hours after installation (no moisture contact) in order to prevent whitening or discoloration.
  
• Do not use sheeting or other barriers to protect surface while coating is curing.
  
• Wet objects should not sit for extended periods on the surface.
  
• Never use a sealed concrete surface as a cutting board.
  
• Soft abrasive cleaning sponges can be used such as Scotch-Brite Non Scratch Scrub Sponges
  
• Clean regularly with mild soap and water.
  
• Non-Abrasive cleaners such as Clorox Kitchen Cleaner and Windex Vinegar Multi-Surface Cleaner can also be used for regular cleaning.
  
• Avoid harsh cleaners that contain solvents, ammonia, abrasives, etc.
  
• Beware of impact-based damage – use caution with pots and pans as forceful direct impact can cause chipping to occur.
  
• Do not place or drag sharp or coarse objects on the surface.
  
• Always use coasters or felt pads below anything with sharp edges.
• Do not put hot cookware, directly from stove or oven onto the surface.
• Avoid leaving potted plants or objects that will maintain wet contact in one spot with the counters for extended periods of time.
• Take care when using curling irons or flat irons around your bathroom vanity or sink. 

MAINTENANCE

• Everyday upkeep is suggested and requires only wiping down counters with a micro fiber or dry cloth.
• Clean regularly with mild soap and water.
• Non-Abrasive cleaners such as Clorox Kitchen Cleaner and Windex Vinegar Multi-Surface Cleaner can also be used for regular cleaning.
• Quickly wipe up spills. Treat tough stains in a timely manner.
• Soft abrasive cleaning sponges can be used such as Scotch-Brite Non-Scratch Scrub Sponges. 
  

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SEALER INFORMATION FOR COUNTERTOPS AND SINKS
The sealer we use is in accordance with USDA regulations 9 CFR, Section 416.4 and the Food Safety Inspection Service’s “Sanitation Performance Compliance Guide”. It is a Water- Based, Non-Emitting Penetrating Sealer, with a high resistance to etching from acidic products such as wine and lemons. The sealer is Ultra – Low VOC, similar to water.
For countertops indoors reapplication of sealer is recommended every 5-10 years. No stripping is required.
For countertops outdoors continued maintenance and reapplication of sealer is recommended every year or depending on use. No stripping is required.
Please call Concrete Works for further information. 

IMPORTANT NOTES:


For several weeks after applying the sealer you may notice the concrete darken in areas where water or liquids contact the surface. This is normal as the cross linking of the sealer continues. Darkening of the surface is not an indication that the sealer is not working; in fact, it is a normal reaction as the sealer continues to cure.

In certain cases hazing/efflorescence of the finish may occur in the first couple of months after installation as moisture inside the concrete continues to escape. This is easily buffed off without the creation of dust. It can also be removed using a soft abrasive cleaning sponge such as Scotch- Brite Non-Scratch Scrub Sponge and water, then dried with a micro fiber cloth afterwards. Further efflorescence may occur after buffing/ scrubbing and follow up may be necessary. Please call us if rebuffing is needed.
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As with all natural, handmade materials slight variation in the finish and color is possible and is not considered a defect. All of our products are warranted against structural cracking. Hairline cracks can form and are not to be considered a defect.
Please contact Concrete Works for further information. 

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