We suggest cleaning door hardware, including roses and plates, every two months with a soft, damp cloth. A solution of soap and water could also be used to remove dirt from knobs, roses and other surfaces, but should not be used on cylinders. Ensure liquid does not enter cylinder at any time. When cleaning, avoid using acidic or abrasive substances which may contain solvents, i.e. cleaning products, as such substances may cause a deterioration of the finish.
Many of Gainsborough hardware are powder coated or electroplated (, satin brass, satin graphite, satin and bright chrome). To care for these finishes, follow our general rules for hardware care and maintenance.
Gainsborough stainless steel products are made from 304 or 316 marine grade steel. Depending on the environment where the product is used, tea-coloured blemishes can appear on the surface. These can be removed with a solution of warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. We recommend cleaning your stainless-steel hardware once a month.
For difficult stains, rub with a suitable stainless cleaner/ polish. Ensure rubbing occurs in the same direction as to the surface grain itself.
Refrain from using steel wool or steel brushes - they leave particles that may corrode the steel.
The nature of brass is to age. To slow this process, we often coat our solid brass hardware with a durable clear lacquer. Breakdown of this protective coating is expected to occur over time, so we highly recommend embracing the everchanging appearance of solid brass - it’s a wonderful material that ages beautifully.
We recommend wiping your lacquer coated solid brass hardware with a soft damp cloth and occasionally polish with a good non-abrasive wax.
NEVER USE ABRASIVE CLEANERS OR POLISHES ON A BRASS ITEM WITH A PROTECTIVE COATING. This includes lemon juice and vinegar.
The beauty of brass is that it can always be restored to its original appearance and resealed by metal refinisher. Bear in mind that this may inhibit the product’s warranty.
Gainsborough and Austral Lock door hardware is manufactured using a quality lubricant for smooth operation. If the product has been installed in a region subject to extreme climate or a dusty environment, then this may affect the original lubricant, meaning the product may require re-lubrication.
How to re-lubricate door hardware:
1. Clean the working mechanism with a non-corrosive substance prior.
2. Re-lubricate with a quality silicone or Teflon based lubricant.
Important - do not use lubricant in cylinder (oil or aerosol type).
3. When key becomes “sticky” in cylinder, you may sprinkle a small amount of graphite onto the key and then insert the key inside cylinder.
