What is Stainless Steel?Stainless steel is an alloy of Iron with a minimum of 11% Chromium. Chromium produces a thin layer of oxide on the surface of the steel known as the 'passive layer'. This prevents any further corrosion of the surface. Increasing the amount of Chromium gives an increased resistance to corrosion.
Does Stainless Steel Scratch?
Overtime the stainless steel surface will superficially scratch and mark to form a 'patina', which becomes a feature of the
surface. These marks are purely superficial.
Is Stainless Steel Durable?
Stainless steel is extremely durable- A stainless steel worktop will last for many, many years. In our view it would not wear out. The stainless steel surface also remains totally hygienic over it's lifetime.
Can the cabinets come in any size i want?
All our kitchen cabinets/worktops are made to order and you can select from a huge catalogue of shapes and sizes fulfilling most needs. However if you have a special request please contact us with your requirements.
Are your kitchens easy to install?
Yes we would say that certain items such as straight worktops and splashbacks are easy to install. 'L' shaped worktops are a little more difficult because of the joints. Cabinets come pre-assembled and with brackets to secure them to walls, so again quite simple. Complete kitchens are reasonably straightforward as long as a competent person is installing them.
How Do You Clean + Maintain Stainless Steel?
Stainless steel sinks and worktops require regular care.
REGULAR CLEANING
1. Wash down the surface using water containing soap or mild detergent.
2. Always rinse the surface with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.
3. A thorough cleaning operation can be completed, by polishing the surface with a stainless steel polish and a soft cloth.
DISCOLOURATION
1. Any discoloration should be removed immediately using a mild proprietary cleaner such as 'Cif' gently rubbing with the grain of the metal.
2. After use rinse thoroughly as above, with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.
3. Remove dirt and limescale deposits on a regular basis.
4. Do not use cleaning agents containing chlorine (generally sodium hypochlorite) or hydrochloric acid.
5. If you use steel wool for cleaning, it must be made of non-rusting stainless steel.
6. Avoid lengthy contact with salty liquids.
7. Avoid direct or prolonged contact with rusting objects (cast -iron pans or iron filings).
8. Do not use your sink for dyeing or bleaching fabric or hair.
AVOID
1. Do not cut directly onto stainless steel worktops - Always use a cutting board.
2. Do Not place hot pans etc, directly onto the stainless steel work surface - Always use a pan stand.
3. Do not use course abrasive materials such as harsh scouring pads, wire wool etc, which can scratch the stainless steel
surface. In addition metal particles left on the surface can quickly turn to rust and leave rust stains on the surface.
4. Most common bleaches, toilet cleaners, photographic developing liquids, acids, concentrated disinfectants, chlorine (often present as hypochlorite) and strong alkalies, i.e. caustic soda, can lead to pitting of the stainless steel surface. If any of these solutions in a concentrated form or otherwise, come into contact with the surface, they should be thoroughly rinsed off as described in 'Regular Cleaning'.
STAINS ON THE SURFACE OF YOUR SINK
These stains usually involve limescale deposits, which appear depending on the hardness of the drinking water. These limescale deposits retain dirt particles to a greater extent, with the result that unattractive stains form in only a short period of time.Small iron and rust particles from the water mains network may also make it appear as though there are rusty marks, particularly in the case of new buildings or when repairs are being carried out to the mains pipelines, and where cast-iron water pipes are involved.