HOW IT WORKS ... frequently asked questions
It is true that outdoor furniture has to withstand far harsher conditions than indoor furniture. It is because of this that Solaire outdoor furniture is hand built in New Zealand using the highest quality materials and manufacturing techniques. Solaire products are designed to withstand all that the environment can throw at them, and will provide many years of trouble free use.
Fabrics
All the fabrics featured on this website are manufactured using 100% solution-dyed acrylic yarns. Solution-dying is the process of adding colour to acrylic fibres during manufacturing while they are in a liquid state. This characteristic is the key to locking in colour, easy cleaning and long life. These solution dyed acrylic yarns are woven into flatweaves, jacquards and even full chenille.
Will Solaire fabric mildew?
Solution dyed acrylic fabrics, if kept clean, will not mildew. An inherent characteristic of acrylic fibre is that it will not support the growth of mildew, as a natural fibre will. Mildew will and can grow on any surface that is dirty, so to keep your Solaire fabric from mildewing you must keep your fabric clean.
Do Solaire fabrics dry quickly?
Because solution dyed acrylic fabrics are woven, they are also highly breathable, which is why they dry quickly with only air exposure. It's also important to know that these fabrics are generally treated with a fluro-carbon finish, which enhances water repellency. This finish requires replenishment after vigorous cleaning.
Won't the cushion zips rust if left outside?
Most outdoor furniture manufacturers utilize open coil zip which breaks down when subjected to prolonged outdoor exposure. All zips used in the manufacture of Solaire furniture are Vislon® zips, produced in New Zealand by YKK. The teeth of the Vislon zip are made using injection-moulded resin, enabling them to resist attack from UV and saltwater corrosion, and making them particularly suited to outdoor applications where reliability and durability are paramount.
Won't my Solaire furniture get dirty if I leave it outside all year round?
Although all Solaire fabrics are easy to keep clean, it is true that anything which is left outside for a prolonged period will attract particles of dirt and dust from the atmosphere. To solve this problem, we have developed marine grade covers for each piece we produce. These covers will also prevent moisture build-up on cushions overnight.
How often do I need to thoroughly clean the fabric?
In most environments, a thorough cleaning will be needed every two to three years.
Can I hose down the fabric?
One of the best ways to keep Solaire fabrics looking good and to delay the need for deep or vigorous cleaning is to hose fabrics off on a monthly basis with clear water. This practice will help prevent dirt from becoming deeply embedded in the fabric and eliminate the need for more frequent vigorous cleanings. In most environments, a thorough cleaning will be needed every two to three years. Remember after hosing down the fabric to allow the fabric to air dry.
Foams
What stops the foam fillings absorbing water?
DriPore™ Now there is a new comfort foam available which has the benefits of both worlds, an outdoor cushion foam called DriPore which can be used with today's modern outdoor fabrics. Dripore foam uses technology which results in a foam which, when in contact with water, acts like a filter rather than like a sponge as is the case with traditional foams. The result is foam for outdoor comfort applications which will not only transform the levels of comfort in these traditionally wet areas, but also allow a level of quality previously only available in super-yachts.
EvaSoft™ is a specially formulated polymer foam designed for comfort applications which works very well in conjunction with other foams to provide maximum comfort.
Frames
Solaire use timber in their frames - won't they rot?
All frames are constructed using 18mm plywood and timber, treated specifically for outdoor use, and are machined using the latest computer-aided woodworking technology to ensure quality and consistency. Each frame is assembled using stainless steel fixings and waterproof adhesives.
All Solaire frames carry a five-year warranty.