Statuary and Gnomes

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I clean my bonded poly-resin gnome?

You simply rinse it with a water hose.

2. How do I clean my statues and gnomes (other than bonded poly-resin)?

You can use a statuary cleaner.

3. Can I purchase statuary cleaner from you?

Yes, we carry a multi-purpose Birdbath & Statuary Cleaner, which is a 100% natural product that can help correct mineral problems and water discolorations. However, it may not work on all types of weathering. You may need to visit a local hardware or garden supply store for different cleaning options.

4. Which statues can be left outside in the winter?

Concrete and stone-mix statues can be left outside year-round. They are extremely durable and will withstand freezing weather.

5.Which statues should I bring inside during the winter?

We suggest bringing the resin and poly-resin statues inside during the winter months.

6. Are your statues and gnomes manufactured at your warehouse?

We are an online retail company; we are not the manufacturer.

7. Are the statues and gnomes going to blow away in the wind?

It depends on the type of material it is made from and how heavy it is. It also depends on where the statuary is placed—a flat surface provides more security, and if the statue is placed on an uneven surface a gust of wind or accidental brush by an animal or person could topple it. Typically, a normal wind will not knock over a statue or gnome.

8. How durable is resin?

Resin is generally considered to be long-lasting. It is not biodegradable. It will not rust, oxidize or decompose as some other material may do over time, and it is unaffected by water or normal temperatures.

9. What is resin?

“Resin” is the common name for a class of casting polymers typically requiring two parts. When the two parts are mixed, they produce a chemical reaction and generate exothermic heat, causing the material to harden and fuse into a solid form. The result is a type of plastic. There are many types of resins available, and new formulations are continually being developed for various uses and applications. The color, strength, pouring viscosity and many other factors vary among formulation. Auto-body putty is one commonly seen form of resin, as well as polyester used for piano casings, airplane wings, and many products structurally laminated with resins.

10. Will my brass statue change colors?

If left alone, brass will tarnish and darken with a greenish or black coloring that some people find attractive and rustic.

11. Can I prevent my brass statue from tarnishing and how do I take care of it?

If you wish to prevent the natural patina finish or coloring that occurs with exposure to air, brass requires a bit more attention and care. Brass products can turn "black" due to the over-use or misuse of polish. The biggest challenge in the upkeep of most metals, including brass, is the removal and inhibition of tarnish. All substances, especially metals, oxidize when exposed to air. Once tarnish is removed, a chemical barrier should be created between the bare metal and the air to inhibit the process from re-occurring.

Polishing

Apply a trace amount creating a THIN film. Only apply an adequate amount of metal polish and spread out the amount on an absorbent rag. Then, let the rag dry out for 24 hours before using on most metals. Apply this trace amount of polish in the direction of the grain of the brass with one hand, while buffing it out in a rapid motion (creating friction) with the other hand.

Copyright 2006 www.OutdoorDecor.com