FAQ’s

SUNBRELLA FABRIC

Aren’t all Outdoor Fabrics the same?
Definitely not. You will find most other cushion manufacturers don’t make 100% solution dyed acrylic fabric and instead sell coated fabrics designed for outdoor use which are only fade resistant for up to 500 hours of UV sunlight.  These fabrics are recommended not to be left exposed to the sun for long periods of time and only to be used for filtered light and slight exposure to rain. (5 hours of sun a day x 100 days = 500 hours). 

How do Sunbrella fabrics lock in colour?
Sunbrella fabric is a 100% solution dyed acrylic and designed for easy maintenance and longevity. 

Solution dying is the process of adding colour to the acrylic fibres during manufacturing while they are still in a liquid state.  This characteristic of acrylic fabric is the key to locking in colour, easy care and long life.  Acrylic fabrics offer incredible resistance to stains, weather and wear in most applications.

Solution dyed fabric is the hardest wearing fabric for outdoor use and originally designed for the marine industry and will retain their colour the longest and can be left in the sun and rain all season.

What do I need to do if a spill or stain occurs on my Sunbrella fabric?
The best way to keep your fabric looking good is to brush off dirt before it becomes embedded in the fabric and to wipe up spills or clean spills soon after a stain occurs.  The quicker you clean spills and stains, the easier they can be removed.

Is Sunbrella  fabric waterproof?
Our range of Sunbrella fabrics we use at Outdoor Interiors are not waterproof.  They are water repellent.  During the finishing process , a water repellent finish is applied to the fabric.  Normal wear and useage will reduce the effectiveness of this finish, as will cleaning the fabric.

Does Sunbrella fabric dry quickly?
Sunbrella fabrics are woven, they are also highly breathable, which is why they dry quickly with only air exposure.

Can Sunbrella fabric be used near chlorine without deterioration or fading?
Yes. Sunbrella is chlorine resistant.

Is Sunbrella fabric mould or mildew resistant?
Yes.  Sunbrella fabrics do not promote mildew growth, however, mildew may grow on dirt and other foreign substances if not removed from the fabric.

Is Sunbrella fabric bleach resistant?
Yes.  Sunbrella is bleach resistant. Please protect the area around your Sunbrella fabric when using bleach or other chemical solvents that may discolour non Sunbrella fabrics. Always rinse Sunbrella thoroughly.

What zippers do you use?
Where possible we use YKK invisible zippers to give your cushions a much neater, designer  finish.  Our ottomans and floor pillows are sometimes used with a regular coil zipper instead of a YKK invisible zipper due to colour availability of invisible zippers in the longer lengths.

What thread do you sew your cushions with?
We sew our seams with a UV resistant thread.

Is Sunbrella fabric suitable for indoor cushions?
Yes.  Sunbrella fabrics comes in a large range of colours and patterns, they are very durable and feel soft to touch like an indoor cushion.

Sunbrella has the look and feel of a natural cotton material but has the high performance characteristics of a synthetic fibre.

What is the difference between Sunbrella Awning/Marine Canvas and other Sunbrella Upholstery fabrics?
Awning and marine canvas is engineered for  shade structures and features a very stiff, tight construction and heavy finish.  Sunbrella upholstery fabrics are engineered to offer softness, comfort and flexibility for seating and other furniture applications.

What is the warranty on Sunbrella Fabric?
We stand behind our Sunbrella fabrics with a guarantee that is the best in the industry. A 5 year limited warranty against fading from normal exposure conditions.

Where are Outdoor Interior’s cushions made?
Our Sunbrella fabric comes from the USA or Australia and is handmade in Adelaide, South Australia.

 

STEEL ARTWORK

Is the Steel Artwork suitable for Indoor or Outdoor use?
Yes.

How do we hang the steel artwork?
Our steel artwork comes ready to hang using 1.2mm deep aluminium hanging blocks.  These make the artwork “pop” out from the wall for added impact.

Artwork can be hung using screws, nails or hooks (not included) .  Please ensure you follow the Manufacturer’s instructions and use the appropriate number of screws or hooks, dependent on the size and weight of your artwork.

3M adhesive tape can be used for those not wanting to pierce the wall.

Please note:

The smallest blocks are only to keep the artwork popped out and are not strong enough for hanging. Each piece of art should only be hung from the longest block on the back.  That length of tape is needed to hold the weight of the art.

Stainless Steel Artwork
Our artwork uses high grade 304 or where specified, 316 marine grade, quality brushed stainless steel.  Stainless steel’s resistance to corrosion and staining, low maintenance, and attractive lustre make it an ideal choice for indoor or outdoor art.

A complimentary “Brilliance Wipe is included with your purchase to enhance your art as required.  Apply the wipe, as needed, wiping with the grain. Leave on for 10-15 minutes then wipe dry with paper or soft cloth.  Take care not to wipe across vinyl lettering with the wipe.

Additional wipes are available through quality hardware stores.

Industrial Steel
Our artwork uses recycled mild steel for the industrial range.  It is designed to age and any imperfections (scratches, marks and surface rust) are part of its natural charm. The artwork is designed to rust slowly and create their own unique patina.

Rust can be removed, as required, either by lightly sanding or using Amsol Metal Polish or white vinegar.

If using vinegar, wipe vinegar on artwork using a paper towel.  Leave for a few minutes and then wash off with water.  Repeat until desired look is achieved.  Spray with oil (cooking oil works well) and polish with a soft cloth.

The artwork can be rusted faster by wiping with water or sea water.

The artwork can also be coated with Penetrol (available from hardware stores) to stop the rusting process and maintain the look of the artwork.

Electro Powder Coated Steel (Black, White, Aqua/Gold)
Art can be wiped lightly with a clean damp cloth.  Only use water to clean these works.