Care Manual


Microcement:

THE FIRST 28 DAYS

  • Microcement takes 28 days to fully harden.
  • Don't clean or wet it for the first 14 days.
  • Use it lightly during the first 14 days.
  • Avoid heavy work; if necessary, cover the surface with a breathable material.
  • Remove the cover after working.
  • The surfaces requires good airflow to dry & harden

PRECAUTIONS

  • Avoid dragging heavy objects on the surface.
  • Lift, don't drag, furniture to move it.
  • Use pads or felts under furniture to protect the floor. Place a mat at the entrance to catch dust and sand. Sweep or vacuum often.
  • For moving heavy furniture, use a woolen cloth to prevent scratches.
  • Protect floors with cardboard, wool blankets, and nylon sheets during renovations.
  • Avoid cleaning with strong chemicals like bleach hydrofluoric acid, dichloromethane, caustic soda, and paint removers.

PROLINGED HEAT EXPOSURE

  • Don't put boiling objects directly on surface; use heat- resistant mats.
  • Don’t place hot pans or hair irons directly on surface Use a cutting board on kitchen counters to avoid scratches, just like with marble or ceramic surfaces.

RENEWING MICROCEMENT

  • The sealer on microcement may need reapplying over time due to wear.
  • Periodically add a new sealer layer for best performance.
  • Check the sealer's condition to decide when to reseal.
  • Not maintaining the sealer can lead to stains on the microcement.
  • The use of CEMHER Microcement maintenance products such as cleaners and floor protect is recommended

FIXTURES

  • Use the correct tools to install fixtures
  • Fill holes or cuts with silicone
  • Do not scratch the sealer when installing fixtures

DAILY CLEANING & CARE

  • Use water and the CEMHER Microcement Cleaner which is PH Neutral
  • Clean with a damp cloth and CEMHER Microcement Cleaner
  • Avoid acid-based, ammonia, chlorine, or abrasive cleaners.
  • Avoid avoid permanent wetness.
  • Don't leave wet carpets or leaking pots on it. Keep surfaces free of stones or grit to avoid scratches.
  • Avoid hitting or rubbing with hard objects.
  • Despite its chemical resistance, only clean with PH- neutral products designed for Microcement surfaces not aggressive products

PROLONGED WATER EXPOSURE

  • Don't leave water, food or chemicals sit on the surface
  • Keep wet items like towels, shampoo bottles or plant pots off the microcement.
  • Make sure water can drain properly.
  • Seal edges and faucets to prevent water pooling

STAIN RESISTANCE

  • CEMHER sealers are of high quality for durability and protection.
  • Sealed microcement resists common liquids like wine, oil, vinegar, and coffee.
  • Clean spills quickly to prevent penetration.
  • Acidic or alkaline substances can mark the surface but won't stain if cleaned promptly.
  • Hydrochloric acid, pure bleach, acetone, and ammonia will leave marks if left for over an hour; quick cleaning prevents stains.
  • We highly recommend using the Cemher spray or floor cleaner for maintaining your microcement surfaces. These products feature a pH-neutral formula, which ensures they are both gentle and effective. The pH-neutral nature of these cleaners means they won't disrupt the delicate balance of the microcement, preserving its finish and integrity.

For optimal results, follow these cleaning tips:

  1. Regular Cleaning: Clean your microcement surfaces regularly to prevent dirt and grime buildup. Use a soft mop or cloth with the Cemher spray or floor cleaner to avoid scratching the surface.

  2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Steer clear of acidic or alkaline cleaners, as they can damage the microcement. Stick to pH-neutral products to ensure the longevity of your surfaces.

  3. Spot Cleaning: For stubborn stains, apply the Cemher cleaner directly to the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes before gently wiping it away with a damp cloth.

  4. Drying: After cleaning, make sure to thoroughly dry the surface with a clean, dry cloth. Excess moisture can affect the microcement's finish and lead to potential damage over time.

  5. Protective Measures: Use felt pads under furniture legs and avoid dragging heavy objects across the microcement to prevent scratches and scuffs.

By following these guidelines and using the recommended cleaners, you'll help maintain the appearance and durability of your microcement surfaces for years to come.

Venetian Plaster:

Venetian plaster is a luxurious and durable finish that enhances the elegance of any space. To ensure its beauty and longevity, proper cleaning and maintenance are essential. This manual provides guidelines to help you care for your Venetian plaster surfaces effectively.

1. Regular Cleaning

Frequency: Clean your Venetian plaster surfaces regularly to prevent the accumulation of dirt and grime.

Method:

  • Dusting: Use a soft, dry cloth or a microfiber duster to remove dust. Avoid using abrasive materials that can scratch the surface.
  • Cleaning: Use a pH-neutral cleaner mixed with water. Apply it using a soft mop or cloth. Avoid excessive moisture to prevent damage to the plaster.

2. Spot Cleaning

Procedure:

  • For stains or spots, apply a small amount of pH-neutral cleaner directly to the affected area.
  • Allow it to sit for a few minutes to break down the stain.
  • Gently blot the area with a damp cloth, then wipe off any residue.
  • Dry the surface with a clean, dry cloth to prevent water marks or streaks.

3. Avoiding Damage

What to Avoid:

  • Harsh Chemicals: Do not use acidic or alkaline cleaners, as they can damage the plaster’s finish.
  • Excessive Water: Avoid over-wetting the surface. Excess moisture can lead to discoloration or damage.
  • Abrasive Tools: Refrain from using abrasive brushes or sponges, which can scratch the plaster.

4. Maintaining the Finish

General Tips:

  • Protective Measures: Place felt pads under furniture legs and avoid dragging or sliding furniture to prevent scratches and scuffs.
  • Reapplication: Over time, if the plaster shows signs of wear, you may need to apply a fresh coat or touch up affected areas. Consult with a professional if you're unsure how to proceed.

5. Handling Repairs

Minor Repairs:

  • Small Cracks or Chips: For minor damage, you can use a matching Venetian plaster repair kit. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
  • Touch-Ups: Apply a thin layer of plaster to the damaged area, feathering it out to blend with the surrounding surface. Allow it to dry thoroughly before cleaning.

Major Repairs:

  • For significant damage, consult a professional plasterer. They can assess the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate repair techniques.

6. Additional Tips

  • Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation in the area to prevent excessive humidity, which can affect the plaster.
  • Avoid Direct Water Contact: In areas prone to splashes, such as behind sinks or stoves, use splash guards to protect the plaster.

By following these guidelines, you can preserve the natural beauty and durability of your Venetian plaster surfaces, ensuring they remain a stunning feature in your home for years to come.

Furniture:

Our meticulously sealed finishes are a testament to their exceptional quality and durability. However, considering the artisanal nature of our hand-finished pieces, we strongly advocate for the use of a warm, damp cloth whenever possible in their maintenance. It's important to steer clear of harsh chemicals or abrasive surface cleaners, favoring instead the use of organic and natural cleaning products to preserve the integrity of your bespoke finishes. Each piece of our handcrafted furniture represents functional art and deserves to be treated with utmost care and reverence. To safeguard their longevity, it's advisable to refrain from knocking or roughly placing objects upon our creations. Should you seek enhanced durability or have specific concerns, we encourage discussing your preferences with us, as our various finishes boast distinct properties.Upon collection from our warehouse or receipt via courier, the responsibility for the care of your pieces falls upon the owner. To prevent surface stains, we highly advise employing coasters and promptly addressing any spills to maintain the pristine appearance of your furniture. Additionally, when moving furniture, it's essential to never rest it directly on its finished surfaces, but rather ensure it remains supported by its feet at all times to prevent any damage or marks. This conscientious approach to handling and caring for your pieces will significantly contribute to their long-lasting beauty and functionality.