Manual & Maintenance Guide

Transcription

1 Manual & Maintenance Guide Quality Control & Inspection NEOTEK slabs are 85% to 93% natural quartz, each slab is unique and as such might vary slightly in dimension, thickness, colour, texture, shade and quartz distribution. Careful inspection for obvious irregularities is essential to prevent any possible defects or customer dissatisfaction. Check for all the following potential issues before cutting. Neotek slabs are intended for and used in manufacturing counter, vanity tops and internal wall and floor coverings Neotek slab nominal SIZES NOTE: Standard Slabs: 305 x 140cm Thickness 3cm or 2cm Jumbo Slabs: 325 x 160cm Thickness 3cm or 2cm There shall be no visible cracks, cuts, transportation damage and/or polish defects on the edge except for a 5cm tolerance area around the perimeter of the slab. There should be no visible cracks or cuts on the face side of the slab. The unexposed surface shall have a regular appearance. Small cracks, cuts or surface irregularities are permitted on the unexposed surface within 10cm from the sides of the slabs. Nominal thickness options are 2cm +/- 1.4mm or 3cm+/1 1.4mm. The thickness shall not deviate from the nominal thickness by more than +/- 1.4 mm. The deviation from flatness of the surface shall not exceed 4mm over the slab length and shall not exceed 2mm over the slab width. NOTE with list of imperfections that should be inspected for Important Note: Neotek (Rocks Forever) will not accept claims for any of the above if the slab is modified in any way whatsoever. It is the fabricators responsibility to determine if the slabs are fit for purpose. If they are not, they should be exchanged before the slabs are cut or modified in any way. Although manufactured Neotek Quartz Slabs are 85% to 93% Quartz which is a natural product as such there may be slight variations in colour and texture from batch to batch this is an inherent of all natural stones. Wherever possible you should ensure slabs for an individual installation are from the same batch in order to minimize such variation. When using slabs from different batches, you must inspect the slabs prior to cutting to ensure that an acceptable colour match is achieved under the same lighting conditions as those found at the site of installation.

2 Its recommend that you obtain customer approval of the actual slab you are planning to use prior to cutting and fabricating as samples provided to customers are only representative and they may vary in shade and texture from the exact slabs. The manufacturer must check the color match on sheets to be used on the same job before manufacturing. Slab Handling and Storage Procedure Slabs should always be stored away from direct sunlight, in a dry environment. Slabs should be stored in a manner that prevents warping. During storage and transportation of slab should be on edge as depicted here, never flat this should be using A frame or racking. Slabs should be stored and transported face-to-face. Slabs should only be handled, moved, loaded or unloaded by trained staff member in compliance with safe handling techniques as prescribed by the HSE. Fabrication Instructions Cutting Cutting of Neotek slabs should only be carried out in a well ventilated environment by trained professionals wearing appropriate safety wear (Please refer to the relevant Government Health & Safety Guidance ) Cutting of Neotek slabs should only ever be carried out by individuals wearing appropriate breathing apparatus that prevents the inhalation of any of the resultant dust which is extremely injurious to health should it be inhaled. The cutting table should be stable and flat. There should be a continuous flow of cold water over the blade or polishing pad whilst in use. The diamond cutting disk should be in perfect condition (no missing parts or worn disks). Corners of cut outs should never be square as this will result in stress points which increase the potential of cracks. An angled corner must be drilled with a core bit with a minimum radius of 5mm. Cut with the saw up to the joint of the drilled hole.

3 All polishing and grinding must be carried out wet to prevent overheating the area which can result in cracking. Cut-out Reinforcement The corner holes should be first drilled by a large diameter core bit and then a diamond blade should be used for cutting between the corners. For installations where the measurement between the cut out and a joint is less than 15cm, the area around the cut-out should be reinforced with a minimum 20mm strip of Neotek Quartz. Ensure that all joints are placed at the junction of the base cabinets or a solid slat be fitted under the joint. Damage to the slab outside of the cut out area can result in stress points that may lead to hairline cracks. All cuts should be carried out using only water cooled diamond cutting tools to avoid generating excessive heat, which could also result in hairline cracks. Always allow an extra 3mm between the appliance and the edge of the cut-out to allow for thermal expansion. It is important to keep alteration work at the actual installation site to a minimum. All cut-outs and fabrication should be completed at your workshop, it is highly unlikely that an installation site is a suitable environment to carry out fabrication. If a joint is overlapped by any cut-out, it advisable that you reinforce the joint by placing support strips beneath. Polishing Polishing of edge profiles on Neotek Quartz should be carried out progressively using granite or marble polishing pads. All polishing tools should be water cooled. Water cooling prevent excess heat building up in the slab which can cause micro fissures invisible to the eye but leading to discolouration chipping and poor polished finish. You must ensure your polishing pads have sufficient diamond grit before using on finished works, the higher grit rating the lower the rpm required in polishing. Polishing Machinery should not exceed 3500rpm. Do not attempt to re-polish or hone the already polished face of the slab.

4 Mitered Joints When utilising finishing technique of mitred joints they should allways be cut at a 45. Cutting edges at an angle less than this recommended angle make them likely to chip or crack. Adhesive should be evenly distributed across joint and free of voids. Ensure edge of mitre joint runs parallel. Transportation All slabs and finished pieces should be securely fastened with no movement during transportation Cut-outs should be braced during transportation. Slabs or finished pieces should be transported face-to-face or back-to-back. Slabs should be transported on edge never flat it is recommended that this is carried out using an A Frame Installation Instructions All cabinetry should be fixed together and secured to the wall to prevent any movement. Ensure that all cabinets are levelled and supported prior to the installation of the tops. If the cabinets are on adjustable legs, ensure that all legs are evenly tensioned to prevent any movement. You must ensure that the surrounding edges of all cut-outs are properly supported underneath. Consider the placement of joints, it is recommended you avoid placing integrated dishwashers or washing machines directly beneath or adjacent to joint in worktops as these appliance can cause considerable vibration. Fitting Allow space of at least 3mm at each wall as Quartz may expand or contact due to changes in temperature. Quartz Worktops and counters must be supported on a strong and stable frame. Front-to-back

5 support should be provided every meter. Such supports should be provided under all joints. Place the countertop vertically on the floor with the bare side down (chamfered edge facing the ceiling). The size of the countertop pieces should be checked whether they fit their intended places. Irregularities should never be compensated by changing the connection points. This can cause damage to the tops. Support is required across the top of a dishwasher space and over an under-counter oven. Use extra silicone on all corners, joints and around all cutouts. Tape the slab along the contact joint, in order to prevent the contacts of adhesive with the slab face. Countertop pieces should be pressed together with the contact surfaces. Neotek should be clamped or braced in position until the adhesive sets. Join lamination seams with 2-part polyester, epoxy, or acrylic adhesives. Note: Traditionally, lamination seams have been joined using color matched 2 part epoxy adhesives due to their strength and UV stability. Clean the seams and the contact points well with acetone or denatured alcohol. Thoroughly rinse the surface with clean water to remove residue. For all sink or basin installations, whether they are top-mount or under-mount, it is recommended to follow the sink manufacturers instructions. For under-mount sink installations, bevel 3 4 mm the edges around the cutout to reduce the risk of chipping. All sink installations should be fully supported independent of the Neotek top. Cast-iron or other heavy sink installations should be fully supported by using plywood underlayment, professional sink-setter or support rail system. Under no conditions affix mechanical fasteners (screws, nails, etc.) directly to Neotek. Cutouts in backsplashes (e.g., electrical outlets) that extend past the cutout perimeter must be filled with 2-part epoxy adhesive and a flexible adhesive must be used around the entire cutout to secure the backsplash to the wall. Leave at least 3mm clearance space on all sides to allow cooktops/sink expansion. Support undermount sinks with brackets.

6 Stainless steel and lavatory undermount sinks must be attached with clips attached to the underside of the countertop or with cradles attached to the outer perimeter or cabinet. All others sink types must be supported with cradles attached to the outer perimeter or cabinet. Never install mechanical fasteners (screws, nails, etc.) directly into Neotek. Inserts may be used with Neotek. If inserts are used, slip fit and glue inserts are required rather than pressure fit inserts. Do not install Neotek over old countertops. Steps to be taken following installation Clean installed worktops / Counters to remove any adhesive and silicone residue, which were left on the top during installation using acetone and then clean off acetone, using a liquid a liquid cleaner as specified in the Care and Maintenance instructions and then rinse thoroughly with water. If there is further construction work to be performed at the installation site following the completion of the surface, ensure that newly installed Neotek surface is properly protected. Neotek Quartz Worktops are not suitable to be used as a platform to be stood upon or to bear any heavy weights over that which would be expected under normal use in a kitchen or bathroom. Either leave a Care and Maintenance manual with the customer which is downloadable in pdf format from the Neotek website or refer your customer to the Care and Maintenance section of the Neotek website as non adherence to the recommendations may void the products 15 year warranty. Customers should be referred to the Neotek website in order to register for a 15 year warranty and this should be completed within 14 days of installation. We recommend that you take pictures of any finished works and obtain customers signature that installation and materials are approved.

7 Neotek Cleaning & Maintenance Neotek offers exceptional durability and with the correct care and maintenance will retain its beauty for years to come. Please follow the below guidelines to ensure years of reliable performance with the peace of mind that comes with a 15 Year Warranty. Cleaning Guide Neotek Quartz Surfaces are resistant to acids and alkalis, tea, soda, wine, vinegar, fruit juice stains and other cooking ingredients due to their inherently low porous structure. For day to day cleaning a gentle liquid detergent applied then mopped and rinsed with clean water will suffice to keep your Neotek surface clean and looking fresh, the simplest way you can care for your countertops is to ensure that any food or drink spill is cleaned thoroughly straight away before it has the chance to become a permanent stain. Most Bleach Free Kitchen & Bathroom Product are suitable for Neotek Quartz Surfaces just check the label states that the product is suitable for Natural Stone. Textured Sponges and Cloths are fine for tougher marks but leave the wire wool or anything with a metallic cleaning surface for the pots and pans. Microfibre cloths are great for buffing dry worktops for a deeper shine after cleaning. Remember that detergents containing bleach and hard scouring granules may harm surfaces over the time. Therefore, pay due attention and meticulous care in detergent selection and use water to thoroughly cleanse the surfaces off any detergent residues after treatment. Food, drink spills do have the potential to become stubborn stains if not immediately removed. For paint, nail enamel, chewing gum, mustard and grease that become which has dried and become hard to remove when dried gently remove excess with a soft plastic spatula before cleaning. Never allow any cleaning products to dry to the surface of the quartz before it is rinsed. Do not let any rust or lime form into stain. Solvents, Bleaches & Chemicals To Be used with Caution Trichloroethene May be used to remove specific stains, must be rinsed thoroughly from surface following scrubbing.

8 Acetone May be used to remove specific stains must be removed with clean water following use. Bleach Should not be used for regular cleaning and can remove sheen from worktops if left on surface for extended periods of time. Paint Thinners Maybe used to removed specific stains provided area is rinsed and cleaned immediately with clean water. Do not use under any circumstances the following products: Hydrofluoric acid, Dichloromethane, Caustic soda, paint strippers, or cleaning products containing Sulfamic acid, Phosphoric acid, any alkaline cleaning product with a PH higher than 10, Any chlorine based products, degreasers or oven cleaner. Hot pans Neotek Quartz offers high performance in terms of heat resistance however should never place hot pans directly onto your Neotek Quartz surface as they can occasionally cause serious consequences to the appearance and structural stability of the material. It is always recommended to use a pan stand/trivet on which to place hot objects after using them to cook. General Care Guide Do not use sealants or water repellent treatments or coatings All-ways us a trivet or hot pad do not place hot pans directly on surfaces. Do not install Neotek Slabs externally or internally with UV lighting. Over the products lifetime exposure to UV rays may have a limited effect on its colouration or shade. All stone, including engineered stone such as Quartz, will chip. Chips usually occur around high-use areas like sinks or dishwashers where pots, pans, plates, etc. hit or bang into the surfaces. Neotek Quartz has more resistance to chipping than granite/marble, but it is possible to chip Neotek Quartz. Most chips can be repaired but this is not always possible. All stone including Neotek Quartz has the potential to crack due to mistreatment or incorrect installation. This will usually occur due to heavy force or high temperatures being applied to the surface, and/or improper or uneven support under the countertop. Some cracks can be repaired or minimized.