Care for Your Wood, Granite & Other Materials
WOOD EXTERIORS
Colour and grain variations are natural characteristics in authentic wood surfaces. Since no two trees are exactly alike, these variations are evident in every piece of real wood. Natural variations are blended somewhat by the application of toners and stains. These finish applications are not designed to eliminate, but to enhance the charm and unique characteristics of the natural wood. The following care suggestions will ensure the longest possible service and beauty of the high-quality finish applied by Genuine Kitchens to your cabinets.
After Installation
Use clean, soft cloths only when cleaning your cabinets. Clean all surfaces with a damp cloth, drying immediately with a dry cloth. If you choose to apply wax to the cabinets, pick a wax that contains no cleaner. Apply the wax as instructed in the Furniture Treatment section below.
Cleaning
Wipe the cabinet surfaces with a clean, damp cloth and then dry with a clean cloth. Mild soap and water applied with a clean cloth can be used to remove oil, grease, or other materials from the surface. All soap residues should be rinsed from the surface using a clean, damp cloth.
Scratches & Nicks
These can be eliminated or hidden by using a touch-up colour marker on shallow scratches, or by using a matching wood-tone putty stick on deeper scratches or nicks. These areas can then be blended with surrounding areas using a light coat of wax. Touch-up markers and putty sticks are available from your local building supply dealer.
Furniture Treatment
To maintain the beauty of your cabinets, care for them as you would any piece of fine furniture. The state-of-the-art Genuine Kitchens finish does not require or recommend using wax. However, if you do choose to wax your cabinets, apply the wax to a soft, clean cloth, then use this cloth to wipe the surface of the cabinets.
Things to Avoid
Do not wipe your cabinets with a dishcloth. A dishcloth can contain soap, grease, and other soil that can be detrimental to the finished surface. Do not use detergents, strong soap, abrasive cleaners, or self-polishing waxes, which can also be harmful to the finish. Keep the finished surfaces dry. Dampness next to dishwashers, sinks, and toe kick areas can cause finish damage and later damage to the underlying wood if not dried as it occurs.
THERMOFOIL & LAMINATE SURFACES
Thermofoil doors and cabinets with laminate surfaces are manufactured using materials that are designed for easy care. Years of service and beauty can be maintained by following these easy suggestions:
Light Cleaning
Clean all spills immediately using a soft cloth dampened with clean water, then dry immediately.
Heavier Cleaning
Oils, grease, and other soils that do not respond to water can be removed with a solution of mild soap and water. The surface should be rinsed immediately with a clean, damp cloth and dried thoroughly.
Things to Avoid
Do not use your dishcloth to clean your cabinets, because it may contain grease, detergent, or other household chemicals that may damage the cabinet surface. Do not use wax on thermofoil or laminate cabinets.
INTERIOR SURFACES
The standard interior on Genuine Kitchens cabinets is a melamine surface that resists scuffing, marring, and repels most household spills. Cabinets with finished wood interiors are protected by a lacquer finish that is extremely durable. To clean either of these surfaces, simply wipe with a damp cloth or sponge and dry thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth.
GRANITE CARE & FAQS
How do I care for my granite?
Granite is very easy to care for. It is sealed before installation and should be resealed periodically with a silicon-based stone sealer. More care should be taken around areas of high moisture. Granite can be cleaned with a mild detergent and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads.
Can my stone be stained, burned, or scratched?
For the most part, stone is very durable and, with proper care, it will not stain. Under normal use it is very difficult to burn stone. Softer stones such as marble, limestone, or soapstone can be scratched and therefore are not the first choice for countertops. Granite, on the other hand, is very hard and extremely difficult to scratch.
Can my stone chip or crack?
With the right force any stone can be chipped or cracked. Under normal use properly installed stone is very unlikely to chip or crack.
Can my stone be repaired if it gets damaged?
Yes. There are many techniques used to repair and restore natural stone. Stone's natural variations, veining, and random patterns make many of these repairs almost invisible.
Is it normal for my stone to have tiny cracks and pits?
All stones have veining and crystallizations that can appear to be cracks or pits but are actually a natural property of the stone. Stone forms over thousands if not millions of years. These slow processes lead to many variations in structure, colour, and pattern. It is precisely these variations that make stone such an appealing material.
How do I remove stains from my stone?
If a stain does appear on your stone, there are ways to remove it. The most important step is to identify the type of stain (oil, ink, organic, etc.). Once the type of stain has been determined, then the appropriate cleaning product can be used. Please contact us for advice should you need it. Most stone products are sealed just before or just after installation. When properly sealed and cared for, natural stone will resist most stains.
Is my stone guaranteed?
Natural stone has been around for a long time. Your stone will most likely be around for many generations to come. Stone has many natural variations and irregularities. For these reasons, we do not guarantee the stone itself. We do, however, fully guarantee the quality of our craftsmanship.
