Materials and maintenance

The products of the EMU range, made with materials featuring the highest quality standards and using environmentally friendly production processes, are designed to be long-lasting. To view the maintenance data sheets, please refer to the website www.emu.it

ABS

ABS is a thermoplastic techno-polymer that, once stabilized, resists well even against UV radiation and can therefore be used outside. It has strong mechanical features even at low temperatures and has high strength, impact, and scratch resistance. These features make it ideal for use in a range of sectors, including furnishing.

Maintenance: clean the product with a soft, damp cloth. Use neutral detergents, if possible diluted in water. Do not use detergents containing alcohol, trichloroethylene, ammonia or other solvents, even in small quantities.

ALUMINUM

Aluminum alloys, particularly suitable for cold-working and for die-casting, are appropriately treated to withstand the elements and powder coated.

Maintenance: to keep the product in good condition for a long time, we recommend cleaning it regularly; more often in very damp locations with a marine climate. It is recommended to clean the surfaces using a soft cloth with water or mild detergents. Prolonged and continuous exposure to intense UV radiation or very low temperatures can affect the initial characteristics of the colored coating, which is made from polyester. We recommend cleaning and storing the products in sheltered places during prolonged periods of non-use and during the winter.

BAMBOO

Bamboo is a rapidly growing material that is collected without causing deforestation. After harvesting, the outermost layer is removed and the bamboo strips are modified using a special thermo-treatment process at 200°, which increases the stability of the material, ensures protection of the materials against fungi and guarantees the highest durability class possible. After the heat compression process, the bamboo fibers become stronger and harder that any existing type of wood. With this specific process, you can have a high-density hardwood table which is resistant to all weather conditions.

Maintenance: this is a natural untreated material, therefore it is subject to staining; if it is placed outdoors it is subject to oxidizing and therefore tends to become grey. In order to reduce the two effects mentioned above, it is advisable to
apply some oil at least once a year. Because it is a natural product, removing stains once they have penetrated is not possible; a surface treatment before using the materials would minimally increase the possibility of a removal action before absorption. For the routine cleaning and hygienizing work on surfaces, it is sufficient to use water and neutral detergents.

ECO-LEATHER

The eco-leather is made of compacted Nylon micro-fiber in polyurethane bath. It is then coated with polyurethane of the same color.

Maintenance: for proper cleaning it is recommended to use a soft cloth soaked in water. If necessary, deposit neutral products on a soft cloth and proceed with cleaning; once the cleaning is completed, always remove any residues with a soft cloth soaked in water. We recommend avoiding depositing cleaning products directly on the coating and drying with artificial heat sources (hair dryers, stoves, etc.). Eco-leather is a material that, over time, can be enriched with small signs that testify to its use and characterize its charm and aesthetic appearance in its normal use.

ELASTIC BELT

Obtained by weaving synthetic materials such as propylene fibers (71%) and synthetic rubber thread (29%), enabling it to be used outside.

Maintenance: avoid prolonged contact with greasy substances and/or dyes, which may be absorbed by the coating material causing permanent staining and deterioration of the yarn structure. Do not use solvents or solvent-based detergents (avoid using acetone). Use water and non-abrasive colorless liquid detergents with neutral PH. Leave the detergent to react on for a few minutes, if required. Rinse thoroughly with water at a temperature not exceeding 30°C. If pressurized devices are used, keep the diffuser tip at least 60 / 70 cm away from the surface of the item. Repeat the operation if necessary.

EMU SYNTHETIC MESH

Composite material consisting of PVC (45%), PP (40%) and PES (5%), and constructed using a “Jacquard” double yarn in GG05 two-yarn, fit for out- and indoor use. The two united yarns create a “synthetic mesh” which is soft to the touch, with high technical qualities against microorganisms.

Maintenance: hand wash the product at a temperature between 30 and 40 ° C with neutral detergent. After washing it is recommended to dry the fabric in the open air, not in the dryer.

EMU-TEX

It is a technical fabric for outdoor use made with polyvinyl chloride thread. It features exceptional strength to ensure durability: maximum resistance to UV rays, the elements, humidity and sudden changes in temperature.

Maintenance: avoid prolonged contact with greasy substances and/or dyes, which may be absorbed by the coating material, causing permanent staining and deterioration of the yarn structure. Frequent washing: use water and non-abrasive, colorless liquid detergents with neutral PH. Leave the detergent to react for a few minutes, if required Rinse thoroughly with water at a temperature not exceeding 30°C. If pressurized devices are used, keep the diffuser tip at least 60/70 cm away from the surface of the item. Repeat the operation if necessary. Periodic and/ or extraordinary washing: use a regenerating stain remover for PVC, following the procedure below. Operations to be performed:

- apply the stain remover to the dirty fabric;

- allow the product to act for 15-30 minutes;

- rub the stained area using a common hard-bristle laundry brush (phase is necessary since the dirt is inside the weaving);

- rinse with running water (if possible rinse using a high-pressure cleaner, remaining at a distance of approx. 60 cm so as not to damage the fabric with the high pressure); - repeat the operations if necessary. Note: when applying the product, pay attention not to apply it to the painted parts of the product.

HPL

Self-supporting material suitable for outdoor exposure. It consists of layers of kraft paper impregnated with phenolic resins and of a decorative surface layer impregnated with thermosetting resins. These layers are pressed at 9 Mp and at a temperature of 150 degrees centigrade.

Maintenance: HPL laminate is easy to clean and does not require special maintenance. Most stains can be washed with just clean water and dried with soft and clean cloths. For stubborn stains, use a sponge and a specific detergent for laminates or detergents for glass surfaces. Remove all traces of detergents using a dry cloth to prevent streaks or dulling. We recommend trying all products in hidden corner. Avoid using steel wool pads, products containing abrasive creams, powder detergents and acetone.

MICROFIBER

100% PES multifilament particularly resistant to daily use, in nubuck aspect, for high quality and long-lasting components, characterized by the weaving of polyester fibers having a titre equal to or less than 1 dtex.

Maintenance: hand wash the product at a temperature between 30 and 40 ° C with neutral detergent. After washing it is recommended to dry the fabric in the open air, not in the dryer

PORCELAIN STONEWARE

Thanks to its excellent physical and mechanical properties, porcelain stoneware is ideal for outdoor use, since it is resistant to atmospheric corrosion and unaffected by UV exposure. Its qualities allow it to be water and oil repellent. Porcelain stoneware is obtained via the synthesizing process of ceramic clay, feldspar, kaolin and sand. These raw materials undergo grinding and atomization until a homogeneous particle size, suitable for pressing, is obtained. Firing takes place at 1150-1250°C for approx. 25- 30 minutes in order to determine the ceramization of the mixture, ensuring the typical resistance to abrasion.

Maintenance: the stoneware surfaces can be cleaned easily and do not require particular maintenance interventions. To clean the product, we recommend use of a cloth dampened with water and mild detergent. Successively, rinse and dry with a dry cloth. Pay particular attention to the rinsing phase to prevent the accumulation of lime scale and dirt.

STAINLESS STEEL

Polished AISI 316 stainless steel.

Maintenance: Caution!

a) DO NOT USE the following products on stainless steel parts:

- bleach or detergents containing bleach (which can corrode stainless steel);

- hydrochloric acid or products containing chloride (which can corrode stainless steel).

b) salt, limescale or acid (from coffee, wine, orange juice, tomato and lemon juice, etc.) may discolor stainless steel parts that are not cleaned immediately.

c) stainless steel products or parts used by the sea or for internal swimming pool furnishings require more frequent cleaning to remove deposits of chloride and to prevent the chemical corrosion of the external surface.

d) stains or rust marks on the stainless steel surface should be removed immediately.

e) stains left for a long time can become permanent

f) rust can chemically attack or corrode stainless steel.

Removing stains or rust:

- apply a specific non-abrasive detergent/polish for stainless steel;

- test on a hidden stain to make sure that the original surface finish is not altered;

- remember to rub lengthwise (not in a circle);

- do not use abrasive pads;

- rinse thoroughly with clean water;

- finally dry thoroughly to prevent streaks, rub in the direction of the fibers.

STEEL
Iron and carbon alloy, with carbon content below 2%, treated to withstand the elements with the unique EMUCoat anti-corrosion process.

Maintenance: to keep the product in good condition for a long time, we recommend storing it indoors and in a dry place during the winter to prevent condensation from forming. Before the winter and on a quarterly basis, if the products are kept near the sea, it is recommended to clean the metal surfaces with a soft cloth using water or detergent and protect them with Vaseline oil or car wax. Rinse carefully. Do not use detergents or abrasive brushes. For painted finishing, we recommend waxing the frame on with liquid wax for cars or a proactive agents available for sale, to help keep and/or restore the shine of the finish. Protective agents can be bought from hardware or similar stores. Use at sea: during use at sea, salt may accumulate in the fissures of the product , leading to rapid deterioration of the paint. In areas where there are swimming pools, chlorine may accumulate on the finish, leading to rapid deterioration of the latter. In both types of environments, repeated cycles of condensation followed by evaporation can cause accumulation of these corrosive and aggressive materials, especially in product fissures. Regular cleaning with delicate biodegradable liquid soap and water can help remove the concentrated deposits and protect the finishing of the furniture following the instructions above. Maintenance intervals:

- aggressive environments (sea areas, industrial areas, swimming pools): every 3 months;

- medium aggressiveness environments (urban areas): every 6 months;

- low aggressiveness environments (natural areas): every 12 months.

In the case of tables, we recommend not to put away the tables with their tops in direct contact with another, and to store the products in dry and aerated places to prevent condensation from forming.

SYNTHETIC FABRICS

Acrylic fabric: a fiber whose base element is a polymer chain consisting of 85% acrylonitrile. Acrylic fiber combines the aesthetic qualities of a luxurious fabric with the texture and feel of wool with the functional qualities of resistance to the elements: UV resistant, it does not stain and does not rot upon contact with water as it is fast-drying. Olefin fabric: is a synthetic fiber made from polyolefin. Olefin has a soft and light texture but at the same time it’s resilient, long-lasting and suitable for many uses, especially outdoor use. The fabrics are solution-dyed, making the color very resistant to the washing. The water-repellent treatments also guarantee low liquid absorption. Polyester fabric: a fiber composed of linear macromolecules consisting mainly of polyethylene terephthalate. It has excellent mechanical properties: it withstands breakage, light and abrasion. It does not deform permanently, it has an excellent elastic recovery and is waterproof. Polypropylene fabric: these are fibers that are generally very fine, with a high surface tension, thanks to which water can pass through and flow out quickly. Strength and durability are among the main advantages offered by this material, which also provides good thermal insulation. Fabric 85% polypropylene, 15% polyester: mixed fabric with the two fibers mentioned above. Premium fabrics: for information regarding the composition of fabrics in this range and their specific maintenance, please refer to the website www.emu.it, write to info@emu.it or contact the respective sales office. All fabrics can show hues which are slightly different because they come from different production batches or have a different exposure to light. This feature should not be considered a defect but a characteristic of the product. EMU uses the most advanced technologies in the textile industry to produce outdoor furniture. Our materials are resistant to water splashing, UV rays, salt deposits, and perspiration, all of which does not cause them to lose their structural and comfort features. After it has rained we recommend you dry the furniture with fabrics in order to prevent the formation of damp stains and molds. To make the products last longer, EMU recommends to store them, if they are not used for a long time (e.g. autumn/winter) or if it rains persistently, in a closed, aerated and dry space, covering them with canvasses to preserve their condition and protect them from dust and dirt. Before you put them away, make sure that they are completely dry. It is advisable to use covers/ linings outdoors, but just for short periods. Covers are not an alternative to winter storage of the products. If it rains always make sure that there is no humidity between the lining and the products in order to prevent the formation of moulds; these are textile manufacturing products, therefore the presence of residual humidity is possible and may cause mold formation. All materials meet the most stringent quality standards for outdoor use; these fabrics are fast drying and low-maintenance.

Maintenance: avoid prolonged contact with greasy substances and/or dyes or colorants that could be absorbed by the covering material and cause permanent stains, as well as deteriorating the yarn structure. In the case of use near the sea or swimming pools, periodic washing is recommended. Frequent washing: follow the specific instructions given on the label for each material. Use water and non-abrasive, colorless, neutral PH liquid detergents. If necessary, allow the detergent to act for a few minutes. Rinse thoroughly with water at a temperature not higher than 30°C (86°F). If pressure cleaning devices are used, keep the tip of the nozzle at a distance of at least 60-70 cm from the surface of the product. If necessary, repeat the operation. Do not use abrasive sponges to remove stains and do not treat with bleach or chlorine.

SYNTHETIC ROPE

Double braid with polyester or Nylon core and multifilament propylene covering. The external fiber is waterproof and resistant to UV rays.

Maintenance: clean using a mild detergent product and a soft cloth. If the rope on the product selected is interlaced, you should clean the plaiting with neutral soap and a high-pressure water cleaner.

TEAK

Traditional wood used for outdoor furniture with an exotic and timeless appeal. Teak is a hard wood with a high oil content suitable for outdoor use, without the need for painting. If it does not receive any protective treatment, the surface will weather into a silvery-grey finish, the natural protection of the internal part of the wood, considered an essential part of teak’s charm. The teak used for EMUproducts is FSC® certified.

Maintenance: since it is a natural material, color variations may be observed between one product and another or between the components of the same product. In case of sudden changes in temperature and humidity, cracks may also occur. If it does not receive any maintenance treatment through the periodic application of common and specific oil-based protective products, the surface will take on a silver grey patina that can also be removed with a light surface sanding and subsequent polishing with a jute cloth. Small surface stains due to oil, coffee, juices, drinks, and other food products must be removed promptly with water and a soft cloth, before the wood can absorb them deeply. In case of residual stains, we recommend sanding the affected surface and polishing it with a jute cloth. When the wood gets wet for the first time, it is normal for the surface to become a little rough when it dries, and the initial sanding can be restored with a light surface sanding and subsequent polishing with a jute cloth. Teak is a natural material that absorbs water and is rich in oils. These oils, by a natural process, tend to rise to the surface over time and can stain any cushions that have been used. Stains on pillows can be removed using soap and water.
TEMPERED GLASS

Tempered glass in compliance with international standards BS 6206 and produced in compliance with standard BS 7376.

Maintenance: the glass surfaces are easy to clean and do not require special maintenance. We recommend using a cloth dampened with water and a mild detergent, then rinse and rub with a dry cloth. Be careful not to scratch any painted surfaces. If the water used has an excessive amount of limescale or other mineral salts which leave stubborn marks or streaks when the surface dries, specific commercial products can be used for cleaning the glass instead of the mild detergent, except for painted surfaces.

TERRACOTTA

This is a porous ceramic paste with white or colored coating which, after the firing process, becomes stable, resistant to aging and light.

Maintenance: terracotta can be cleaned easily and does not require particular maintenance interventions. To clean the product we recommend use of a cloth dampened with water and mild detergent. Successively, rinse and dry with a dry cloth. Pay particular attention to the rinsing phase to prevent the accumulation of lime scale and dirt.

WPC

WPC is a composite material made from wood fibers and HDPE. Semi-finished products are obtained by extruding the composite. This material is resistant to UV rays, atmospheric agents and humidity. WPC does not chip and is not damaged by bacteria or insects. It is a material that requires little maintenance. It does not need to be painted for protection.

Maintenance: for best care in an outdoor environment, it is recommended that the product be cleaned periodically:

- for dust and debris: use a vacuum cleaner to remove dirt and debris;

- for dirt stains: clean with a laundry brush using neutral soap and lukewarm water;

- for oily stains: pat promptly with absorbent paper and clean the area with lukewarm water and neutral soap. Do not use pressure washing devices, which can damage the product. Do not use bleach or chlorine-based detergents. Do not use highly acidic or highly alkaline detergents. Use neutral detergents, best if diluted in water.

AVOID IMPROPER USE

Such as:

- do not use the seats as stool, step, trestle, gym equipment or for similar purposes;

- do not swing on the legs. Do not sit on the backrest. Do not sit on the armrests. Do not load any weight greater than 120 kg on the seats;

- keep an eye on children when they are using the seats. Refrain from using the seats if you notice that they are damaged in order to prevent injuries and bruising to the user. The seats should not be altered or changed in any way. This might prejudge their functionality and lead to forfeiting the warranty; - do not use the tables as step or trestle. Do not stand on the tables. Do not load any weight greater than 40 Kg on the tables; - do not cover the products with non-transpiring canvasses (e.g.: canvasses and tablecloths made of PVC, nylon, etc.) Lack of transpiration causes irreparable damage to the product finishing.

WARNINGS

Glass, ceramic, metal and any other hard materials in direct contact with the coating can damage / scratch it irreparably. We recommend to protect the tops with a cotton cloth or other material in daily use. At the end of its use, do not dump the furniture in the environment but contact the companies responsible for the disposal of solid and municipal waste, for its transfer to the Tip or its eventual recovery. If you live in an area where freezing is likely, store the product in a clean and dry place. The accumulation of water inside the frame pipe - if exposed to freezing temperatures - might lead the frame pipe to cracking or bursting. During the storage and stacking phase, do not exceed the number of stackable units stated in EMU official materials. Excessive heights could pose risks to safety and might increase the potential for rubbing and subsequent wearing of the frame finishing. For any clarifications regarding the maximum number of stackable units, please refer to the website www.emu.it Seats If the seats tend to wobble when they are used on irregular surfaces, in order to redress the level/planarity it is sufficient to hammer the longer leg. Steel sheet tables top Tables tops are made with a slight down planarity deviation to avoid “spring effect” when used. Surface tables tops seem to be concave. Wood and HPL tables top Tables tops made in these materials are subject to slight warping as climate conditions vary. For this reason, differences in alignment may occur between the various components of the table. This has no effect on performance. Sunshades Before starting to open the sunshade, make sure that the fabric has not got caught in the internal ribs. To open or close the sunshade, turn the handle in the direction indicated by the arrows and the works “Open” or “Close”. Incorrect operation could tear the string or damage the mechanism. Never force the ropes or handles. If they get stuck, check why this has happened and eliminate the possible cause. Dralon or polyester fabrics: hand-wash in lukewarm water (40°C) using a detergent for delicate fabrics. Treat any oily or watery stains with a sponge or soft brush, rinse thoroughly and dry in the shade. For more persistent stains use a gentle detergent or stain remover. Make sure that the fabric is completely dry before putting it away. Do not spin dry. Avoid dry cleaning. For the winter, it is advisable to remove the fabric from the structure and allow it to dry completely before putting it away. Mechanical parts: apply a wax-based wood-stainer at least once a year before the winter season. Close the sunshade when the weather conditions are unsuitable, i.e. strong wind or heavy rain. EMU sunshades can be combined with special bases enabling them to be bracketed into place. If it is decided to position an EMU sunshade using ballast only, their suitability for use in conditions of moderate wind is certified. The Customer is the sole party responsible for installing and managing the sunshade. Shade and Shade Pro collections resists to UV rays, as UPF 50+ degree. Furthermore fabrics of those collections reached degree 8 of color fastness to light test, BS EN: ISO 105 B02 standard.

SPARE COMPONENTS

In case you need to replace worn feet cap covers or any other plastic components please contact an EMU dealer.