Maintenance

When cared for correctly, your concrete product from The Concrete Shed requires no ongoing maintenance and does not need to be resealed in the future. Each piece is sealed prior to leaving our workshop to provide maximum protection. The following guidelines will help you protect and maintain your concrete product for years to come.

Scratching

Do not drag, slide, or drop objects onto your concrete surface. This includes (but is not limited to) handbags, groceries, laundry baskets, serving dishes, plates, mugs, chopping boards, boxes, pans, or firewood.

Always lift and gently place items onto the surface rather than sliding them. Never cut directly on the concrete. Once the sealer is scratched or pierced, the surface becomes more susceptible to staining and marks, which cannot be removed.

Using placemats, decorative mats, tea towels, or felt pads under objects will help minimise scratching and wear.

Cleaning

Cleaning is simple and should only require a soft damp sponge or cloth with mild, water-based cleaners.

Avoid using products that contain:

• Citrus or acidic ingredients

• Bleach-based cleaners

• High alkaline or high pH products

• Trichloroethane or methylene chloride

• Abrasive cleaners or scrubbers (including Jif, Gumption or similar)

Staining or discolouration may occur over time if these products are used. After cleaning, ensure the surface is dry before placing objects back on it. Avoid forceful scrubbing, as this can damage the sealer.

Staining

We recommend wiping up spills as soon as they occur. Do not leave food or liquids sitting on the surface for extended periods.

Products that may cause staining include (but are not limited to):

• Lemon juice

• Vinegar or balsamic vinegar

• Oils

• Red wine

• Turmeric

• Coffee

Items such as hand soap, hand cream, liquid foundation, oils, hand sanitiser, flower vases, or bottles should be placed on a decorative dish or tray rather than directly on the concrete surface. This prevents slow seepage into the concrete if they leak or drip.

Once staining occurs, it cannot be removed.

Trapped Water & Liquids

If items such as vases, pot plants, soap dispensers or oil bottles sit directly on the concrete, moisture can become trapped underneath and may cause marking or discolouration.

We recommend placing these items on a dish or tray. If moisture marks appear, leave the area uncovered to allow the sealer to breathe. In some cases, marks may remain permanent.

For outdoor tables, do not use table covers, as they can trap moisture against the surface.

Sun & Outdoor Use

Concrete is suitable for outdoor use, however items should not be left sitting on the surface for long periods. Trapped moisture can cause marking or discolouration over time.

Chips

While concrete is highly durable, it is a brittle material and can chip if impacted. Small chips may be repaired using a colour-matched grout or filler supplied by The Concrete Shed. This will fill the area but may remain visible.

Heat

Do not place hot pots, pans, baking trays, or hair straighteners directly onto the surface. Heat can damage the sealer. Always use a trivet, chopping board, or heat mat as a barrier.

Care & Maintenance: Bathroom Products

When caring for concrete bathware, particular attention should be given to cleaning methods and moisture management.

For integrated concrete sinks:

• Do not use harsh or abrasive cleaners on or around the waste plug

• Avoid rough scourers or scrubbing pads

• Clean water after use

If your sink has a waste plug, avoid filling it for long periods. If filled, allow it to fully drain after 30 minutes. Prolonged water exposure may cause marking or discolouration as the sealer cannot breathe.

If water pools along the sides or base of the sink, wipe it dry after use. This will help preserve the appearance long term.

Ensure items such as soap bottles or cosmetic containers are placed on trays or dishes, not directly on the concrete vanity top.

If products such as oil-based foundation, body oil, nail polish remover, turmeric masks, coffee scrubs, or fake tan are spilled, wipe them up immediately. Leaving these products on the surface may cause permanent staining or discolouration.