Restoring Richlite

Richlite will develop a natural patina with use and needs minimal maintenance - cleaning with warm soapy water, and can be polished periodically with Osmo spray cleaner (previously Richlite Care + Maintain or Howard's Naturals). 

Even with the best care, over time the natural hardwax oil finish may wear away or get stripped back by heavy cleaning. This won't degrade the material, but can look a bit chalky, so you may want to reapply finish. You can spot finish if it's a small area, as the hardwax oil will generally blend in, or apply across the whole surface. Because Richlite is non-porous, finishes and polishes can't absorb into the material, so following application instructions can help avoid unsightly build up.

Refresh

Re-applying hardwax oil

Whether applying to a spot or the whole surface, it's very important to make sure the surface is completely clean and free of dust, grime or finger prints as these will get embedded within the hardwax oil. Start by cleaning the whole area with warm soapy water. Once dry the surface may look a little chalky. You may want to mask off any adjacent surfaces, taps or fixtures to protect them. 

Using a clean, dry microfibre apply a small amount of hardwax oil in a circular motion. Buff on evenly to all areas, finishing with the edges to capture any drips. Immediately after with a separate cloth, buff off any excess. Unlike wood, the work surface won't absorb finish, so a thick layer can never fully cure, will feel waxy and won't wear well. Once a thin layer has been uniformly applied, leave to dry for 24 hours where possible. The finish will continue to harden over the next week, so avoid heavy cleaning which can remove some of your hard work. 

Full refinish

Clean, buff + reapply

Mistakes can happen and a deep scratch or stain caused by bleach don't mean the top has to be replaced. Because Richlite is a through colour material, the surface can be refinished. Likewise, if the original install had too much finish applied, or a different finish or lacquer was used, this can be corrected once that finish is stripped back. 

Depending on the complexity and condition it may be better to discuss a refurb with your original fabricator, who can help with refinishing and repairs. But if it's straightforward, you're fairly handy and want to attempt it yourself, we've shown how to clean, buff and apply hardwax oil to restore and rejuvenate the surface.