Stainless steel
Remember that this lamp requires maintenance. Follow the instructions below.
Thanks to its even, shiny and attractive surface, stainless steel is ideal for outdoor use.
Stainless steel is an alloy of iron, chromium and nickel. As part of the staining process, a thin, corrosion-proof oxide layer forms on the surface. The surface is continuously affected by atmospheric conditions and other influences from the immediate environment, which means that it must be treated regularly if it is to remain shiny and free from rust build-up.
Before installation, treat the steel with acid-free oil. From then on, wipe it down with a soft cloth. Repeat the treatment 3-4 times a year. We do not recommend installing stainless steel lamps in harsh environments such as coastal, farming and industrial areas.
Copper and brass lamps
Our copper and brass lamps are made from solid copper and brass respectively. The machining process will leave minor scratches on the surface, as well as rinsing agent residue that is quickly removed during the verdigris process. The copper/brass will become tarnished following exposure to the first few downpours, but the carbonated air and moisture will soon turn the lamp a lovely dark brownish colour. Over the years, copper will take on a beautiful verdigris colour, while brass will take on a darker and more even colour. The uniformity of the verdigris surface and the speed at which the process occurs depends on the lamp’s environment. Both materials can be polished with metal polish to maintain the shiny surface.
Hot-dip galvanised lamps
The zinc treatment is carried out manually in stationary facilities. The temperature of the molten zinc is approximately 460 degrees. When metal is dipped into the molten zinc, a reaction between the metals occurs and alloys develop on the surface.
The lamp and its components are manually dipped in the hot zinc. This treatment leaves variations in the coating in the form of uneven surface mixed with minor droplet formation. The hot-dip galvanising process can also leave thin "zinc curtains" on the surface, which appear as a thin film hanging down from the edge of the lamp/shade. This film is easily removed or brushed off with e.g. a soft brush.
The new lamp has a glossy surface that takes on a more matt and rustic appearance over time.
Aluminium lamps
Our aluminium lamps are made from die-cast and/or extruded aluminium, where the design of the lamp determines whether both materials, or only one, are used for different parts of the same lamp.
Untreated aluminium lamps are then treated with a special clear lacquer that seals the surface to protect them from corrosion.
Lacquered lamps
Lacquered aluminium and steel lamps will have a uniform and even surface. To prevent the lamp from tarnishing, we recommend cleaning and drying the lamp after installation and repeating this process 3-4 times a year. Use a standard detergent for this. Black lamps that fade from strong sunlight can also be treated with a silicone spray as needed to preserve the black colour.
We do not recommend installing aluminium and steel lamps in coastal, farming and industrial areas unless otherwise stated, as these harsh environments can cause the lamp to corrode, resulting in flaking, bubbles in the material and a whitish coating on the lamp’s surface.
Corten lamps
Before installing a Corten lamp, we recommend placing it outdoors on a surface that is allowed to become rust-coloured. After this, the Corten surface should be watered daily for 14 days to ensure that the surface stays in place and no longer stains. Check if the Corten lamp is smudge-proof. If it is, it’s ready for installation. A new Corten lamp will have a distinctive texture in the surface. Over time, it will change in appearance and become more uniform and smooth in texture.
Plastic lamps
Plastic lamps can be used in coastal areas as they do not corrode. If the plastic lamp is partially made of metal, use in coastal areas is not recommended. Plastic lamps should be wiped with a wet cloth or washed with a soft brush (such as a washing up brush or car brush). If the lamp is particularly dirty, you may need to apply soap (such as washing-up liquid or car shampoo).
Wooden lamps
Wooden lamps should be treated and maintained like other outdoor items. Wooden lamps should be cleaned and, if necessary, sanded and then treated with wood protection. Do not apply the wood protection until the wooden lamp is completely dry after cleaning. Wooden lamps should be treated twice a year.
Condensation
Condensation is a natural phenomenon that occurs in specific atmospheric conditions. Humid warm air meets cold air, causing water to condense on the inner surface. When the water is heated, it results in rising water vapour that can affect the electrical components. Condensation is not covered by Nordlux's warranty unless it can be proven that a fault in the lamp caused water to penetrate.
If you experience condensation, check the following:
- Has the lamp been fitted/installed correctly?
- Are the gaskets tight and are the screws and glass sufficiently tightened?
- In the case of a garden/bed lamp, rising soil moisture in the lamp tube may cause condensation. This problem is easily solved by filling the tube with a sealant.
- Important: Keep any drain holes free of impurities
Remember to dry all individual parts before reassembling the lamp!