Care and Maintenance of HOPPE Hardware
Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel is rust-resistant due to the alloy components of chrome and nickel. Regular care and maintenance, however, are still required to ensure the longevity and appearance of this material. Since the base material is a form of steel, surface staining can occur in aggressive environments and/or when in contact with other metals or materials. Wash surfaces seasonally with warm, clean water and a mild detergent followed by a thorough rinse with clean water especially when surface deposits are visible. If any surface staining does occur, use only a stainless steel cleaner to remove the staining per the manufacturer’s instructions. DO NOT use household cleansers, abrasive cleansers, or steel wool at any time to clean the surface.
For added corrosion protection in highly aggressive environments, clean hardware surfaces as noted above and carefully apply Boeshield T-9 as needed. DO NOT allow Boeshield T-9 to contact wood surfaces or other surfaces that tend to absorb oils as staining may occur. Wipe any excess.
Other Hardware Finishes and Surfaces
To clean, use water and a soft cloth. Clean as necessary or when surface deposits are visible. DO NOT use brass cleaner. DO NOT use household cleansers, abrasive cleansers, or steel wool at any time to clean the surface.
For added corrosion protection in highly aggressive environments, clean hardware surfaces as noted above and carefully apply Boeshield T-9 as needed. DO NOT allow Boeshield T-9 to contact wood surfaces or other surfaces that tend to absorb oils as staining may occur. Wipe any excess.
Dark Bronze Metallic (F82)
Clean immediately if surface deposits are visible using water and a soft cloth. Use a solution of one part vinegar and one part water to clean calcified white deposits from the surface if water is not effective. DO NOT allow vinegar solution to contact other surfaces. Rinse after cleaning. Apply Boeshield T-9 per the above instructions after cleaning.
Oil Rubbed Brass and Oil Rubbed Bronze
Oil rubbed brass and oil rubbed bronze (ORB) finishes are intended to change color and appearance by design. Clean only if necessary by rinsing with water. Rigorous cleaning or use of a cloth may alter the surface appearance.
General Hardware Care and Maintenance
Maintain proper door or window operation at all times to ensure hardware function. This may require adjustment of hinges, strikes, rollers, cams, and/or other adjustments as instructed by the applicable manufacturer. Carpentry or other repair may be necessary to account for misalignment, warping, sagging, or other problems preventing normal operation of the door or window.
Clear any debris from strike openings, grooves, rails, moving parts or other areas where hardware is engaged particularly any applicable areas on the sill.
Where keyed cylinders are used, apply dry graphite (available at most hardware stores or locksmiths) to the keyway once a year or more if usage is frequent.
DO NOT paint or apply wood stain over hardware.
DO NOT allow paint, wood stain, dry wall compound, silicon, putty or other finishing materials to seep into or become lodged in hardware. Cover or mask hardware when necessary during finishing processes.
If hardware is serviced, use fasteners (when applicable) originally supplied with the hardware or as specified by the installation instructions.
Clean and maintain hardware surfaces as noted above.