To maintain the appearance of Andersen® window and patio door hardware, we recommend periodic cleanings. Climate, location, and exposure to corrosive environments such as industrial areas, pesticides, herbicides, or salts are challenges to the ability to maintain the hardware’s beauty and characteristics. Regular care and maintenance is especially important in coastal or industrial environments to prevent corrosion or tarnishing which may result from the presence of airborne salts and chemicals.
Cleaning
General cleaning, wash hardware using a mild detergent and a soft cloth. Do not use or apply harsh chemicals, abrasives and/or cleaners. Product damage could occur. For specific models mentioned below, do not refurbish the hardware. Contact a professional hardware restorer for refurbishing.
Polish Brushed Chrome and Polished Chrome finishes using a commercially available chrome polish following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Oil Rubbed Bronze and Distressed Bronze with handling and frequent use create the bronze patina that is the hallmark of oil rubbed bronze and distressed bronze finishes. These are living finishes with no protective coating. As the hardware is used hands will polish away the darker material exposing the bronze beneath. The appearance of these finishes will vary depending on usage and environmental conditions. Occasionally apply light mechanic oil to deepen the color and sheen of the product. Cover metal parts with oil entirely, allow the oil to stand for a few minutes, then gently rub off excess using a clean cloth.
Antique Brass and Bright Brass Manufactured Before July 1998, avoid abrasive cleaners, cloths, or brushes. Apply a Non-Abrasive paste wax (Johnson® or Turtle Wax® brands) following manufacturers’ directions to protect and restore.
Antique Brass and Bright Brass Refurbishing Instructions
Do not refurbish Patio Door Bright Brass Hardware manufactured after July 1998.
If the clear coat has been scratched or worn off, the brass will tarnish. This will appear as a brown, black, green, or copper-colored film. If tarnish has formed it will be necessary to remove the clear coat and refurbish the brass. Consult a refinishing professional or follow the general guidelines below. If one piece is to be refurbished it is recommended that the entire set be done. There is a noticeable difference between coated and uncoated pieces.
Stripping and cleaning compounds may contain harsh chemicals. Follow the safety precautions listed on products.
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Remove the brass hardware from the unit. Refer to the mounting instructions included with the hardware Remove the clear coat from brass hardware using a paint stripper containing methylene chloride (Stripez, Zip Strip™) following the manufacturer's directions
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Remove hardware from the stripping solution and rub lightly with #00 steel or bronze wool to remove any remaining clear coat or tarnished areas
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Rinse the hardware and continue to lightly rub until the brass color returns
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When the clear coat and tarnish have been completely removed, clean the Brass Hardware using a copper cleaner (Tarni-Shield®, Brasso® or Copperbrite brands) following manufacturers’
directions
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Reapply the optional clear coat using a clear lacquer spray. Reapplication of the clear coat is not recommended in corrosive environments as tarnish could appear under the clear coat. It is recommended in these environments the hardware be cleaned as needed
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Reassemble and reinstall Brass Hardware on the unit following the mounting instructions
To improve operation, the hardware or other moving components on your Andersen® products may need to be lubricated. For more information, please see Lubricating Andersen® Windows and Patio Doors.
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