FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is vitreous enamel?

Vitreous Enamel is simply a thin layer of glass fused at high temperature on to the surface of a metal. The word enamel comes from the High German word ‘smelzan’ and later from the Old French ‘esmail’.The formal definition is : Vitreous Enamel can be defined as a material which is a vitreous solid obtained by smelting or fritting a mixture of inorganic materials.

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Can I repair a chip on a piece of enamel?
It is not possible to carry out a repair to vitreous enamel, except by specialists in the re-enamelling of already enamelled parts. Repair kits are available from the major do-it-yourself outlets, but these are only a paint which can never be as hard and durable as the original vitreous enamel. They will not withstand arduous use or the high temperatures which will be found in an appliance oven, grill or hotplate. However, they will often give a short term cosmetic repair in other areas, which may satisfy your needs.

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How can I get a piece of metal vitreous enamelled or re-enamelled?
Contact one of the specialist sub-contract enamelling companies.

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What should I use to clean my vitreous enamel?
Only use products which have been tested by the Vitreous Enamel Association and bear their approval logo. They are available from most supermarkets and retailers

 

Can I repair a chip on a piece of enamel?
It is not possible to carry out a repair to vitreous enamel, except by specialists in the re-enamelling of already enamelled parts. Repair kits are available from the major do-it-yourself outlets, but these are only a paint which can never be as hard and durable as the original vitreous enamel. They will not withstand arduous use or the high temperatures which will be found in an appliance oven, grill or hotplate. However, they will often give a short term cosmetic repair in other areas, which may satisfy your needs.
 

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