Caring for Refinished Surfaces

Are you enjoying the sleek, shiny look of your newly refinished kitchen countertops, bathtub, or bathroom vanity? If so, read on to learn how to properly care for these surfaces so that they do not break down over time.

Avoid Abrasive Cleaners

Some cleaners are abrasive and will dull refinished surfaces. The best way to clean refinished surfaces, whether a bathtub, countertop, tile, or vanity,  is to use a wet washcloth with a gentle cleaner. Some recommended cleaners include Windex, Mr. Clean, and Dawn, as they do not contain the harsh chemicals that erode refinished surfaces.

Cleaners to stay away from include anything with ammonia or bleach, like Comet or Ajax. It is also important to avoid using steel wool or scratch pads as they are very abrasive on refinished surfaces and will dull or scratch the appearance.

Prevent scratches

Some other helpful guidelines to cut down on general wear and tear include avoiding placing hot pots or pans directly on the refinished surfaces, as well as not cutting directly on the countertops as this will scratch the finish.

Fix leaky faucets and Don't use bath mats with suction cups

For bathtubs and vanities, be aware of the state of your faucets. Leaky faucets will wear away the refinished surface over time and create cracks, dents, and other blemishes. Also, be careful not to use bath mats with suction cups or adhesives because they can lift the coating on the tub when combined with the hot water. If you wish to add non-slip surfaces to your tub, that can be done during the refinishing process.

Contact a professional refinisher

NAPCO wants you to enjoy your newly refinished surfaces to the fullest by providing you with these simple care guidelines. If a crack or blemish occurs shortly after refinishing, feel free to contact a professional refinisher.