Materials

Care & Maintenance

WOOD 

Reclaimed teak may include embedded materials such as nails. These materials may cause rust, potentially staining the product or leaving sediment on the floor. 

Wood furniture, especially reclaimed teak, is prone to developing stains over time. This may include minor black spots where nails or bolts have been embedded. However, these markings do not compromise the integrity or quality of the wood. 

Products made from teak roots or branches may vary in size, as dimensions depend on the materials available during production. The measurements provided in our catalogue are indicative, and actual product dimensions may vary. 

As a natural material, solid wood is susceptible to external influences, leading to the development of cracks and changes in colour over time. Each piece of wood will age uniquely, acquiring its own distinct character. When exposed to outdoor elements, the wood will naturally develop a grey patina. 

Our teak with a fumé finish is meticulously brushed and varnished with a specially applied colour tint. This finish is specifically engineered to endure natural elements, including extreme temperatures, UV light, moisture, and humidity. Over time, if needed, the colour tint can be reapplied to maintain its appearance and durability. 

As wood is a natural material, it is not inherently resistant to stains. Unless sealed, it can absorb liquids from various sources, including leaves, food (such as olive oil), drinks (such as wine or coffee), and acids (such as citrus). To maintain the wood's authentic beauty, our natural wood products are left untreated—neither lacquered nor varnished.  

There are many wood care products available, but we recommend, similar to bluestone care, cleaning and nourishing teak with a small amount of natural glycerin-based soap from time to time. 

To minimize the risk of cracking and ensure the longevity of your furniture, it is crucial to maintain consistent relative humidity. Additionally, tables should be kept level at all times to prevent warping and structural instability.  

For safe delivery, most of our tables are shipped upside down to avoid potential damage during transit. When setting up, please take care to lift the entire table and place all legs on the floor simultaneously. Avoid placing any weight or pressure on the legs from the sides while flipping the table, as this can compromise the table’s integrity. Following these guidelines will help preserve the quality and durability of your furniture. 

Hardwoods such as teak and oak naturally contain colorants like tannins, which may dissolve when exposed to moisture. As a result, when the wood comes into contact with liquids or is placed in a damp environment, discoloration ranging from yellow to brown or red may occur. Additionally, these tannins can seep from the wood, potentially affecting nearby surfaces and products. We advise taking precautions to protect surrounding areas to prevent any potential staining or discoloration. This characteristic is inherent to the wood and should be considered when selecting and placing hardwood furniture. 

 

STONE 

Sempre exclusively works with natural stones such as Belgian Bluestone, Massengis, Lapia and Carrara marble. While Carrara marble is best maintained indoors, Belgian Bluestone, Massengis, Lapia are perfectly suitable for both indoor and outdoor. 

Our stones are naturally sourced, meaning they inherently contain fossils. Consequently, white or greyish marks and veins may be present, with variations in quantity and size from piece to piece. These natural features are intrinsic to the stone and do not compromise its quality. 

Grease marks on the stones will gradually fade with exposure to sun and rain, typically over several weeks to months, depending on the extent of the grease. For quicker results, you can clean the stone with water mixed with two spoons of ammonia or a high-quality detergent. 

Superficial micro-scratches are a normal occurrence and will, over time, enhance the stone's patina. To nourish the stone and minimize the appearance of micro-scratches, we recommend treating the surface with a solution of natural glycerin-based soap diluted in water. 

For routine cleaning and maintenance, simply nourish the stone periodically with a small amount of natural glycerin-based soap. To prevent damage, always ensure that your bluestone tabletops are placed perfectly horizontal and level on their designated bases, and check that no debris, such as small scraps of stone or other materials, is trapped between the top and base. This will help avoid potential breakage and maintain the longevity of your stone furniture. 

 

WICKER 

Since no special protection or coating is applied, outdoor exposure will naturally impact the product’s longevity, shape, and colour, with the latter gradually transitioning to a greyish tone over time.  

Wicker is considered a semi-outdoor material, intended for use outdoors primarily during the summer months. It is advisable to bring wicker furniture indoors during colder, wetter seasons. For extended durability, we suggest placing wicker pieces under a roof or lean-to, even during the summer. 

Our wicker products are meticulously handwoven, and as a result, the ends of the wicker strands may occasionally become loose. Should this occur, they can be easily adjusted by tucking them back in place or trimming them as necessary. 

 

IRON 

For outdoor use, we recommend using powder-coated iron or Corten steel. To preserve the original finish and slow the rusting process, we suggest applying a protective coating regularly. 

 

GLASSWARE 

 

Our glassware is meticulously handblown to achieve its unique look and feel. To preserve this craftsmanship, we recommend cleaning by hand. However, our glassware is also dishwasher and ozone machine proof when used with care. 

Hand washing, drying and polishing 

When hand washing your glassware, use warm water with a mild detergent, avoiding excessively hot or boiling water. Rinse thoroughly to remove any detergent residues. 

For drying and polishing, use two large microfiber cloths. Handle the glass carefully: never hold the base and bowl simultaneously to avoid twisting and breaking the stem. To polish, hold the bowl or base with one cloth and polish the inside and outside with the other. 

Avoid drying glasses upside down on metal racks, as this may damage the rim. Instead of tea towels, use microfiber cloths for a lint-free finish. 

We recommend washing microfiber cloths at 60°C/140°F without fabric softener and air drying to maintain their effectiveness. 

Using a dishwasher 

For optimal results, please follow these guidelines: 

  • Use minimal detergent and ensure proper water softening to prevent limescale deposits. 
  • Wash at low temperatures (50-55°C or special glass program) 
  • Avoid placing glassware in the dishwasher with other materials, such as aluminum, to prevent chemical reactions. 
  • Ensure that glasses are not placed against each other during washing, as this can cause scratches or damage. 
  • After washing, open the dishwasher door promptly to avoid glass corrosion. 
  • Regularly check for and remove any detergent residues, as these can lead to clouding of the glassware over time. 

Please note that while these methods help maintain the integrity of your glassware, subtle changes in appearance may still occur with regular machine washing. 

Avoiding Glass Clouding 

Glassware delights with its shine and clarity, but these characteristics also make surface damage, such as clouding, highly visible. Over time, all glassware is susceptible to clouding, often due to surface damage that can be minimized with proper care. 

There are two main causes of glass clouding in dishwashers: 

  • Limescale or detergent residues: These can create a cloudy film but are easily removed with mild acids like citric acid or white vinegar. 
  • Glass corrosion: This occurs when components of the glass are washed out, leading to a permanent white coating. Unfortunately, glass corrosion cannot be reversed or repaired. 

To prevent clouding, whether washing by hand or machine, rinse glasses immediately after use to avoid residue buildup. This is especially important with acidic beverages like red wine, which can damage the glass if left too long. 

 

Discover our finishes

In our Furniture collection, the finishes play a vital role in defining the character and style of each piece.