The Refinishing Process
Powder coating is a very unique process and requires extensive preparation. Anything that is not metal (fabric, wood, plastic feet, vinyl straps) needs to be removed from the furniture, because the furniture is placed in a huge oven (large enough to place a car inside) and heated to 400 degrees. Next, the old paint needs to be removed thru the process known as sandblasting. After this stage it will be back to its original metal surface. Sometimes the next step is to primer the frames. This is mostly necessary on steel frames that can rust. Then the frames are powder coated. Powder coating when originally applied is in the form of a powder with a negative electrical charge. To make the powder stick to the metal frame a positive electrical charge is applied to the frame. Then the furniture is placed in a large oven for 20 minutes. The heat transforms the powder into a liquid. When the furniture is removed from the oven it slowly hardens and within one hour the paint has become 100% cured. The quick curing process is one of the main advantages of powder coating. Liquid paint such as what a car is painted with can take up to 30 days to cure. Next new vinyl strap or slings are installed using the highest quality materials. We purchase all our materials from the same companies the major manufactures purchase from. Finally, new plastic feet (glides) are installed when possible.
Warranty
Painted surfaces are warranted against flaking, peeling or cracking for a period of one year. No warranty is provided related to the prevention of rust on steel or wrought iron furniture.
In general straps are warranted against breaking for a period of 2 years. However, if a strap should break anytime during the life of the furniture it will be reinstalled for fee if brought to us. If the original strap is no longer available a nominal fee will be charged. Slings are warranted against tearing for one year with normal use. If any problem should arise we will gladly work with you on the price.
Care of Your Furniture
Strap should only be cleaned with mild soap and water or with a product only sold at patio furniture stores called Feronguard and Feronclean. This product was specifically designed to clean vinyl strap. It can also be used on the frame, but test on a small area before applying to the entire frame. Cleaning is easiest when done on an overcast day or in the shade because the sun will make the cleaning product dry quickly.
Sling furniture should only be cleaned with mild soap and water and a scrub brush. Never use anything with bleach as it will damage the strap or sling. The frames can be shined up using car wax. Sometimes a light application of Vaseline can be wiped on the frames to restore the finish.
When not using your furniture it is a good practice to tilt the chairs into the table so water runs off the material. During the winter months it is a good practice to cover the furniture. If possible it is easier to install one large cover over the entire set versus purchasing a separate cover for each piece.
