Low Silica & Silica Free Care & Maintenance
Routine cleaning
CRL Low Silica Quartz & Silica Free Surfaces are virtually maintenance free and can be cleaned with extreme ease. For routine cleaning and to wipe off spills, use a damp cloth or paper towel and a small amount of mild soap or non-acidic cleaner. Once clean, rinse and dry the surface thoroughly.
Note that colours available in a honed finish are more sensitive to grease or finger-prints than polished surfaces and may require extra care during routine cleaning due to the different level of smoothness.
Scratch resistance
Your Low Silica Quartz & Silica Free surface will not easily scratch or chip, meaning little care is needed. However, avoid using sharp objects such as knives or screwdrivers directly on the surface. The use of a cutting board is recommended.
Heat resistance
CRL Low Silica Quartz & Silica Free surfaces can tolerate moderately hot temperature for short periods of time. To maintain the natural beauty of the product, do not place hot skillets or roasting pans directly onto the surface but use an insulator or trivet instead.
Stain resistance
Thanks to their non-porous properties, CRL Low Silica Quartz & Silica Free surfaces are highly resistant to stains.
However, do not allow dirt and residue such as stubborn food or gum stains to harden and remain on the surface for extended period of time. In case they do, scrape away gently using a small blade or putty remover before cleaning with warm water and soap.
Recommended care for stubborn or dried spills is to use a nonabrasive cleaning pad combined with a small amount of mild soap or specialised stone cleaner.
Recommended stain remover: Bar Keepers Friend Power Cream.
Hard Water
To prevent hard water damage, wipe up spills immediately and consider using a water softener or distilled water for cleaning, especially in areas with hard water.
If hard water stains occur, use a pH-neutral cleaner or a diluted solution of vinegar and water with a soft, non-abrasive cloth.
Solvents
Avoid exposing CRL Low Silica Quartz & Silica Free surfaces to chemicals and solvents, especially paint removers or furniture strippers containing trichlorethane or methylene chloride. Keep away nail polish remover, bleach or cleansers that contain bleach, bluing, permanent markers or inks. Strong abrasive and highly alkaline (outside of 5-9pH) cleansers are not recommended. Always follow the manufacturers’ dilution instructions and recommendations.
If any of the substances listed above come into contact with the surface rinse the exposed surface immediately and thoroughly with plenty of clean water.
Other Considerations
While Low Silica Quartz & Silica Free surfaces are highly resistant to stains, they are not completely impervious, and proper maintenance is essential to maintain its appearance and prevent damage.