Resources

1. How often should I inspect my metal sculpture?

Careful inspection of your metal sculptures should occur at least twice a year.  This is especially true for outdoor sculptures, exposed to dirt and weather.

2. What areas of my sculpture should I inspect?

Look closely at the areas where dirt is able to accumulate as this is where deterioration will originate.

3. What should I use to remove dirt or debris from my sculpture?

Using a soft bristle brush, preferably with a plastic ferrule as found in pastry supply stores remove any dust or debris.  If you cannot find a brush with a plastic ferrule, apply some blue masking tape over the metal ferrule to prevent any scratching of the surface as you clear the debris.

4. What is your recommended cleaning schedule for my sculpture?

Exterior sculptures should be cleaned and waxed or oiled every six months. Not maintaining the metal on a regular schedule, using an inferior wax/oil formula will eventually result in surface failure.  It is advisable to maintain a record log and have a person trained in the inspection process and maintenance techniques, and have adequate supplies and equipment on hand to do the job.  We usually recommend scheduling the maintenance twice a year in sync with gardening schedules.  For interior bronzes, if this maintenance occurs once a year according to the liturgical calendar when the crucifix is draped, proper care can be built into a convenient calendar.

5. What supplies do I need to clean my exterior sculpture?

• Non-ionic soap, this could be Ivory dish soap.

• Hose, long enough to reach the sculpture for complete rinsing.

• Brushes, soft white wash brush like a toothbrush.

• Rubber gloves.

• Clean towels, lint free terry cloth type.

• Sculpt Nouveau clear metal wax or oil. This wax has a shelf life and we recommend purchasing a small container of wax at the time of maintenance. Any application must be made while the bronze is warmed in the sun.

• Plastic bucket, five gallon with warm water for washing areas as needed.

6. How do I clean my exterior sculpture?

• Fill the bucket with water adding one to three ounces of Ivory dish soap per gallon of water.

• After carefully removing any dirt deposits in cavities with a dry brush, use the soap and water mix. Scrub gently but freely with brushes to remove all deposits. Take care not to damage the wax and lacquer coating by scrubbing too hard.

• Using the hose, rinse completely.

• Dry with clean, lint free towels.

• Apply a new thin layer of Sculpt Nouveau metal wax. Apply in very thin coats according to the directions on the can. Do not let any wax pool or build up in cavities as this will attract dirt and grime and create a build up with crusty white appearance. Proper application of this wax will improve the appearance of the metal and extend the protection of the patina and lacquer finish. It contains UV inhibitors to protect and prolong the life of your patina. Exterior patinas consist of a marine type lacquer which should last for a long time if properly maintained.

• Let the wax dry for around 15-30 minutes and buff briskly with a soft brush, shoe brush, or lint free cloth to bring out the luster of the bronze. We recommend not buffing noses. If there is an area which reflects light in an undesirable way, apply a thin layer of wax, let it sit, and do not buff out.

7. I have an interior sculpture, is cleaning and maintaining an interior sculpture different from an exterior sculpture?

• The materials and cleaning process are the same for interior and exterior sculptures. With your interior sculpture just do not use a hose to rinse your sculpture. We recommend a small bucket with clean water to rinse you interior sculpture.

8. Do I need to inspect my interior sculpture as often as an exterior sculpture?

• No. In clean environments exterior sculptures should be inspected once per year.

9. I have never waxed a sculpture before, do you have any helpful tips?

• Apply Sculpt Nouveau metal wax to a completely dry metal surface under dry conditions or there is a risk of trapping moisture causing a white film to appear. If this does occur, it may be treated by applying heat to the surface using a heat gun or hair dryer. When the cloudiness has been removed start the wax process again. This wax is especially formulated for bronze with UV inhibitors. It will not yellow as it ages.

• Apply the wax with a soft cloth or brush, depending on the surface. If a brush is used, wipe softly before the wax hardens to remove any ridges.

• Let the wax set up for about 30 minutes, less time if the temperature is high.

• Buff with a lint free towel. Buffing will help compact the wax, making a dense surface.

• Applying a second coat is optional. If a second coat is applied, wait six hours for the first layer to fully cure. Repeat the waxing instructions as with the first coat.

10. Where can I purchase Sculpt Nouveau wax?

• http://www.sculptnouveau.com/