Product Care Advice

How to care for Timber Veneer

As a natural product, timber veneer can feature variations in the grain, which adds to the style and personality of this material. No two trees are exactly the same.

Caring for timber is just as important as caring for fabrics and leathers. Gentle dusting with a clean microfibre cloth will help maintain the beauty of your timber veneer. King also recommends placing your timber veneer furniture away from excess heat and/or humidity, as this may cause the veneer to crack or warp as it expands and contracts due to temperature variations.

Keep your timber veneer furniture in pristine condition by avoiding exposure to direct sunlight or ultra violet light, which may cause discolouration or deterioration of the surface. Also place protective padding between the timber veneer and any object placed on it.

This should be thicker for heavy, hot or abrasive objects that may severely damage the wooden surface. We recommend using coasters to protect the surface from glassware.

To minimise scratches avoid dragging objects across the surface. We also recommend not writing directly on top of timber veneer surfaces as pen or pencil marks may show.

Clean any spills immediately, do not allow nail polish remover, hair spray, perfume or strong corrosive solvents to come in contact with the timber veneer, and do not use any chemicals, detergents or any product containing silicon to clean timber veneer.

How to care for Timber

Timber is a beautiful natural product that has unique characteristics, including grain and colour variations.

Natural materials like timber are vulnerable to expansion and contraction from changing temperatures. King recommends placing timber furniture away from direct sunlight to avoid warping and discolouration.

Regular cleaning and dusting will help to keep the surface in top condition. Once a month use a proprietary brand of furniture polish to protect the surfaces and nourish unsealed timber.

Be sure to test the polish on an inconspicuous area before use and follow application instructions carefully.

Do not use polishes containing silicon or products that leave a greasy film, and avoid general cleaning products on timber surfaces.

To minimise scratching timber surfaces, avoid dragging objects across the surface.

Hot or cold objects such as drinks or bottles, placed directly onto surface may leave marks. We recommend using a coaster or other form of protection.

How to care for Teak

About Teak

Teak is an incredibly durable timber for outdoor furniture. Its density and naturally high oil content prevent rot and protect against fungus and wood-boring pests. King Living products are finished with an outdoor oil coating for extra protection. 

If teak is exposed to outdoor elements, it will gradually develop a beautiful silver-grey patina. This is a natural characteristic of the timber that strengthens its natural defenses against external elements over time. The rate that weathering occurs depends on climate, exposure to outdoor weather, and commitment to care and maintenance. 

Despite this, weathered teak can be restored to its original appearance with deep cleaning and maintenance of the protective coating. We recommend the following guidelines to maintain its original or weathered appearance.

General Care and Maintenance

During the outdoor season, weekly cleaning is recommended. Sweep furniture with a soft hand brush and clean with mild (pH-neutral) soapy water and a microfiber cloth or sponge. Hose the furniture to keep the teak as wet as possible, and wipe in the direction of the wood grain during cleaning. 

• Clean fallen leaves and debris, bird droppings, and food and beverage spills immediately to avoid staining and mold.
• Move vases, pottery, and other objects regularly to avoid staining and mold. Avoid plastic tablecloths as this can affect moisture circulation around the timber.
• Ensure furniture is covered between outdoor seasons and avoid letting water lie dormant on furniture. King Living WeatherGuard covers are available to protect your furniture pieces and are recommended.Ensure teak is clean and dry before covering.
• Avoid cleaning in direct sun and ensure furniture is cooled down before you start the cleaning process.
• Use protective gloves and ensure that water run-off will not damage sensitive flooring.
• DO NOT use a high-pressure cleaner, steamer, abrasive sponges, steel brushes, or any abrasive cleaners.
• Teak expands and contracts due to changes in climate. Hairline cracks may form in the wood grain over time. This does not affect the structural integrity of the timber.
• Due to the high oil content of teak, oil surfacing can occur when exposed to rain and humidity. This can develop multiple times before naturally subsiding after several months. Deep cleaning will remove affected areas.

Deep Cleaning

Use a dedicated teak cleaner for deep cleaning. Follow the instructions on your cleaning product. 

Stubborn stains can be sanded off lightly with 120-grit sandpaper. Be mindful that sanding can remove the protective coating, which will need to be re-applied. To avoid colour changes in newly sanded areas, sand the entire surface and re-apply a protective coating. See below for information on oil application. 

Oil Application / Recommended Products

King Living teak is treated with a coat of UV-protecting oil. We recommend that a teak-specified oil be re-applied at the beginning and end of the outdoor season, or once a year after thorough cleaning. 

Ensure that the teak is clean, dust free, and completely dry before applying an oil coating, and follow the instructions recommended for your product. 

How to care for powder-coat

Regular Cleaning

To maintain the pristine condition of your powder-coated steel products, it's important to clean them regularly to eliminate dirt, dust, and debris. If you live in a coastal environment, we recommend more frequent cleaning to prevent the accumulation of salt buildup. To clean, use a mixture of mild detergent or soap and water along with a soft cloth or sponge. We advise against abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes that could potentially scratch the surface.

Thorough Rinsing

After cleaning, make sure to thoroughly rinse the product with clean water. This step is essential to remove any residual cleaning solution, which could lead to discoloration or damage over time if left unchecked.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Protect the integrity of the powder-coated surface by avoiding the use of harsh chemicals, alcohol-based solutions, solvents, or ammonia-based cleaners. These substances have the potential to degrade the coating and compromise its protective qualities.

Promptly Address Stains and Spills

In case you come across stains or spills on the powder-coated surface, it's recommended to address them promptly. Timely cleaning can prevent stains from becoming more stubborn and difficult to remove.

Combat Rust

While powder-coated steel is resistant to rust, any minor scratches or chips in the coating might expose the underlying metal, leading to rust formation.

Gentle Cleaning Methods

Please refrain from using pressure washers, as they could potentially harm the powder-coated surface. Opt for gentle cleaning methods utilising a soft sponge or cloth.

Wax or Sealant Application

Enhance the longevity and visual appeal of your powder-coated steel products by applying a non-abrasive car wax or a specialised sealant designed for outdoor metals. This added layer of protection will contribute to the vibrancy and durability of the powder coating.

Seasonal Storage Consideration

If you live near the coast, it's advisable to consider using our range of WeatherGuard™ Covers or storing your powder-coated steel items indoors during off-season periods. This proactive measure shields them from prolonged exposure to the elements, preserving their appearance and structural integrity.

How to care for Stainless Steel

The stylish finish of stainless steel requires some upkeep to maintain its reflective beauty.

Although not guaranteed to remain free from corrosion, following these instructions can help to maintain the finish of your stainless steel.

When cleaning, wipe with a damp cloth and dry the surface thoroughly. To remove day to day marks, mild soap and water should be sufficient. More stubborn stains can be removed with commercial grade cleaners suitable for use on stainless steel. Attend to the stain gently to avoid scratching the surface, and do not use abrasive cleaners on stainless steel pieces as these can permanently dull or damage the finish of the surface.

Completely remove all cleaner residue and use a reputable brand of stainless steel polish to protect the surface from corrosion, to create an “as new” shine. When using specific purpose cleaning products please avoid contact with any fabric or leather on your furniture.

   

How to care for Chromium Plated Steel

Chromium plated steel furniture can have a long-lasting, lustrous finish if it’s well cared for and regularly cleaned.

Gently wipe away dust and dirt, being careful not to scratch the surface. We recommend cleaning with mild soap and warm water (max 40ºC/ 104°F), using a clean sponge or cloth. Then rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.

Completely remove all cleaner residue and use a reputable brand of chromium plated steel polish to protect the surface from corrosion and to create an “as new” shine. When using specific purpose cleaning products please avoid contact with any fabric or leather on your furniture.

To ensure a long lasting, high quality finish, do not expose chromium plated steel to general cleaning products, water or salt air. Avoid silverware and brass cleaners as they may scratch and permanently damage the coating and never use steel wool (wire wool) to clean chromium plated steel.

   

How to care for Marble

Initial setup and continued care and maintenance of your marble

Overview

Marble is a natural product. Whilst all King stone products are sealed, marble that comes into contact with acidic substances including coffee, citrus, wine, tomatoes, alcohol and juice can cause etching. Etching can also be caused by water. Different to a stain, etching is actually a corrosive reaction to the stone, which removes its surface layer to reveal the raw marble beneath. Think of it as burning the top layer of the marble. As a result, the exposed area is lighter and duller than it previously was. A stain on the other hand, occurs when a liquid penetrates the marble and causes discolouration within the stone. While our products are sealed, this cannot prevent etching and re-applying a marble sealant may be required after extended use.

General Care and Precautions

• Use coasters and boards to prevent food and drink coming into direct contact with the marble wherever possible.

• Any substance that comes into contact with your marble should be absorbed immediately with a clean, damp cloth.

• Do not place hot items directly on the stone surface, we recommend the use of boards, trivets or mats

Staining

Note: Always test the cleaner or cleaning chemical you intend to use on a small inconspicuous area first.

General guidelines for stain removal:

1. Remove any loose debris

2. Blot spills; wiping the area will spread the spill

3. Flush the area with plain water and mild soap and rinse several times.

4. Dry the area thoroughly with a soft cloth.

5. Repeat as necessary.

6. If the stain persists use the ‘Stain Index’ on page 29 as a guide to troubleshoot

Etching

We apply penetrative sealers and waxes depending on the type of marble during production to reduce the porosity of the stone, this means quickly wiped spills are less likely to etch the marble. It is important to note that etching can occur even with the best sealer’s. Etch marks are caused by acidic substances left on the surface of the stone. Some materials will etch the finish but not leave a stain whilst others will do both.

Etch Removal

1. Refer to the ‘Stain Index’ on page 29 of this document and remove the stain using the appropriate method outlined for the stain type.

2. Spritz the surface with fresh water and apply a marble polishing powder (These powders are readily available from your local hardware store)

3. Rub the powder onto the stone with a damp cloth or by using a buffing pad. Continue buffing until the etch mark disappears and the marble surface shines.

Note: For deep etching contact your local stone restorer for refinishing or repolishing etched areas that you cannot reverse.
Unfortunately, etching is difficult to reverse on marble once it has occurred as it’s a chemical reaction.

Marble Poultice

It is quite difficult to completely remove set in stains from marble. Using the products and methods outlined in the ‘Stain Index’ should considerably improve the appearance of the stained marble surface however, a marble poultice can assist in drawing out and removing deep stains. Poultice materials include powdered chalk, white moulding plaster, talc or baking soda.

Note: Always test the poultice you intend to use on a small inconspicuous area first;

1. Mix your chosen poultice material with water, or the substance(s) listed in the ‘Stain Index’ to form a thick paste.

2. Spritz the stained area with clean, fresh water

3. Spread a thin layer of the poultice (0.5cm) over the stained area using a plastic spatula

4. Cover the poultice with plastic wrap and tape it in place

5. Let the poultice stay on the site for about 24 to 48 hours, so that it can dry out completely. The liquid cleaner or chemical will draw out the stain into the absorbent material during the drying process

6. When the paste is fully dry, use a cloth soaked in warm, soapy water to wipe away the paste Note: Do not scrape the poultice off, as you risk scratching the marble surface.

7. Rinse with clean water and buff dry with a soft microfibre cloth

8. If the stain is still visible, repeat the entire process.

Several applications may be necessary, depending on the type of the stain and the time it has had to set in. Applying a poultice will certainly yield good results, considerably improving the appearance of the stained marble surface.
However, some stains may not be completely removed. If the stain doesn’t come out after three (3) poultice applications consult professional stone refinishers.

Stain Index

Warning: Never mix ammonia with bleach, this combination creates a toxic and lethal gas.

Oil Based

Stain Types: Cosmetics, Grease, Tar, Cooking Oils and/or Milk

Identifier: An oil-based stain will darken the stone and normally must be chemically dissolved so the source of the stain can be flushed or rinsed away.

Removal: Clean gently with a soft, liquid cleanser, a household detergent, ammonia, mineral spirits or acetone.

Organic

Stain Types: Coffee, tea, fruit, paper, food, flora and/or foliage

Identifier: May cause a pinkish-brown stain and may disappear after the source of the stain has been removed.

Removal: A solution of 12% hydrogen peroxide and a few drops of ammonia can be used to remove the stain. Once removed flush out the solution with fresh water.

Warning: Hydrogen peroxide may lighten the appearance of darker stones.

Metal

Stain Types: Iron, Rust, Copper and/or Bronze

Identifier: Iron or rust stains are orange to brown in colour and follow the shape of the staining object such planters, trays and/or metal furniture. Metal stains result from the action of moisture between metal and stone surfaces

Removal: Metal stains must be removed with a poultice. (See section on Marble Poultice)

Note: Deep-seated, rusty stains are extremely difficult to remove, and the stone may be permanently stained.

Ink/Dyes

Stain Types: Pen, paint and/or ink

Removal: Light coloured stones can be cleaned using hydrogen peroxide whilst dark stones can be cleaned using acetone. Paint that has caked onto the surface can be carefully scraped off using a razor blade.

Note: Latex and acrylic paints do not cause staining. Oil-based paints, putty, caulks and sealants may cause an oil-based stain. Refer to the section ‘Oil-Based’ for removal instructions.

Warning: Do not use paint thinners as these can etch the surface of the stone.

Abrasions

Slight surface scratches may be buffed with dry 0000 steel wool. Deeper scratches and chips and or gouges in the surface of the stone should be repaired and re-polished by a professional.

What finish do we use on King marble tops?

An Italian Manufactured top-quality concentrated wax, dissolved in a non-inflammable solvent is used on all marble surfaces in the King range. This product, born in 1937, is a paste with exceptional polishing and protective power, due to the extremely high quality of raw materials used in its preparation. Paste wax penetrates into the marble and if it is then rubbed with fine steel wool, a felt pad, or a dry woollen or cotton cloth, a uniform brilliant and long-lasting mirror-finish can be achieved. Its special composition fills and seals porosities in the material and covers small scratches.

Why do we use penetrative waxes (sealers) and not coatings?

We don’t use stone coatings or impervious sealers as they are sacrificial finishes, which means they require the whole surface to be professionally sanded back to the original stone and re-coated, this type of finish is more commonly used for flooring and kitchen counter tops, not so much for furniture applications as the feel & natural properties of the marble are diminished with this type of coating.

What is a coating or impervious sealer?

Coatings are usually acrylics, urethanes, epoxies, varnishes, lacquers etc. and have limited use on natural stone however there are some typical uses of these film forming polymers. The most common coating is the janitorial type floor finish that is applied to floors to maintain a physical barrier which isolates the stone surface from abrasion. These coatings are considered temporary or sacrificial and are used primarily because the coating is easier to restore when it gets damaged than the stone surface would be without the coating. In general, film-forming coatings are avoided on natural stone where possible.