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Special Metals: Expectations & Care
COPPER BASED ALLOYS (includes Copper, Brass, & Bronze)
UNFINISHED: Due to the handmade manufacturing process, these metals may contain visible imperfections. These are normal characteristics of the material and are not considered to be defective. If left unfinished, these metals will develop a patina through the natural process of oxidation.
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As unfinished copper experiences natural or human-induced contact, its color changes from the iridescent, golden red normally associated with pure copper to a deep brown and, finally, to hues of blue and green.
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FINISHED: Due to the handmade patina process, these metals will exhibit variations. These are normal characteristics of the material and processes and add to the handmade appearance. Patination and wax finish is a common method of finishing these metals but is subject to further oxidation and will not remain exactly as installed due to the normal oxidation of this material. Wax finish will require some maintenance based on the client's preferences.
PEWTER
Due to the handmade manufacturing process, pewter may contain visible imperfections. These are normal characteristics of the material and add to the old-world appearance. Our pewter countertops are made from solid pewter, and not spray applied or “slip cast”. Our high purity pewter alloy conforms to the ASTM standard and does not contain lead (NOTE: Pewter can wear and show seams after many years — this is normal and can be refinished to original appearance).
Pewter Care Instructions
Pewter, because of its nature, will last for generations and gracefully absorb the effects of continued use. Below are some guidelines to maintain its beauty and ensure its longevity.
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To clean, use only mild, PH neutral soap and clean water (i.e. Ivory dish soap). Do not use abrasives, abrasive cleaning pads, or strong chemicals:
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Simply wipe down the entire surface with soapy water using soft cotton or microfiber towels.
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Then rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with additional clean soft cotton or microfiber towels.
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If you have hard water it may leave visible spots on the surface of your countertop. If this happens, just use distilled water for the rinse. Most Municipal supplied water is fine and does not cause spots.
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Pewter is a soft metal and can easily be marked or dented. Please take care not to cut directly on the pewter. Minor scratches and dings will, over time, add to the character of your countertop.
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Avoid placing extremely hot cookware on the pewter surface. Damage, such as blistering or melting, could occur. Always use a trivet of appropriate size when placing hot cookware on the countertop.
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Over time, the surface will naturally patina and burnish. This is to be expected and will enrich its beauty and add to its charm.
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With proper care, the pewter surface in your home will inherit the wear and character of day to day life and provide years of enjoyment for you and future generations.
Patinated Pewter Care Instructions
Pewter, because of its nature, will last for generations and gracefully absorb the effects of continued use. Below are some guidelines to maintain its beauty and ensure its longevity.
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To clean, use only mild, PH neutral soap and clean water (i.e. Ivory dish soap). Do not use abrasives, abrasive cleaning pads, or strong chemicals:
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Simply wipe down the entire surface with soapy water using soft cotton or microfiber towels.
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Then rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with additional clean soft cotton or microfiber towels.
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If you have hard water it may leave visible spots on the surface of your countertop. If this happens, just use distilled water for the rinse. Most Municipal supplied water is fine and does not cause spots.
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Be sure to wipe up any acidic liquids that land on the counter (such as lemon juice) within a few minutes and do not let eggs dry on the counter as they will pull up the wax coating when removed.
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Pewter is a soft metal and can easily be marked or dented. Please take care not to cut directly on the pewter. Minor scratches and dings will, over time, add to the character of your countertop.
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Avoid placing extremely hot cookware on the pewter surface. Damage, such as blistering or melting, could occur. Always use a trivet of appropriate size when placing hot cookware on the countertop.
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A chemical patina has been applied to your countertop to simulate an advanced age of pewter beyond what is naturally possible for pewter. Scratches, which are inevitable, will reveal the true silver color of the metal below the patination, but will darken over time.
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Three coats of wax have been applied to your countertop. You may wish to maintain this wax, or not, at your discretion.
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With proper care, the pewter surface in your home will inherit the wear and character of day to day life and provide years of enjoyment for you and future generations.
Polished Metal Care Instructions
Any polished material requires an understanding of handling and cleaning.
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Care should be taken that no abrasive cleaners, pads or rags (including paper towels) be used on the polished surfaces of the metal pieces.
Suggested materials:
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Soft/Plush Toilet Paper
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Corn Starch powder (available at most grocery stores)
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A synthetic Feather Duster
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Goof-Off (Pro Strength)
Using these materials:
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For fingerprints and greasy smudges on the polished metal surface, take a few sheets of toilet paper (like 2), dab in a little cornstarch and gently rub on the fingerprints. The combination of corn starch as a super mild abrasive and the toilet paper will remove and absorb the oil from the fingerprints.
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The toilet paper will likely leave little white paper wisps on the panel, use the synthetic Feather Duster to remove them with a gentle wiping motion.
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To remove any residue (such as from protective PVC wrap), use the Goof-Off on toilet paper to remove it. Take a few sheets (like 2 to 4) , saturate one corner and test over the spot in question. Gently wipe in one direction, one time, slowly. The Goof-Off takes a second or two to saturate and lift off the residue.