Prism Hardscapes · Maintenance
How to Clean + Care for Your Prism GFRC Fire Feature
Prism's hand-applied patina is beautiful but vulnerable to the wrong chemistry. Soft cloth, mild soap, and cover-when-not-in-use is the full maintenance story — plus the one thing that actually extends the surface finish: an annual burner inspection by a qualified gas tech.
By Ash · Updated November 10, 2026
What you need
- Soft microfiber cloth
- Mild dish soap (pH-neutral)
- Warm water
- Fitted product cover (brand-specific, sold through Prism dealers)
Step by step
Routine wipe-down between uses
A soft microfiber cloth with warm water is enough for dust, pollen, and light soot. Wipe in long passes, not scrubbing circles. Dry with a second soft cloth if you want to prevent water spotting.
Spot cleaning stains (pH-neutral only)
A few drops of mild dish soap in warm water, applied with a soft cloth. Rinse with plain water, dry. Pet urine, spilled drinks, and food drips come off with this routine if caught within 24 hours.
Cover the unit when not in use
Prism's guidance is specific: "Cover the unit when not in use to extend the finish." The patina handles rain and sun, but prolonged UV + moisture exposure dulls the surface over 2-3 years. A fitted cover from your dealer takes the hit instead.
Annual burner inspection by a gas tech
Separate from surface care: have the burner inspected annually by a qualified gas technician. Soot patterns, orifice condition, pilot flame height — all are fire-safety items that need a gas-certified eye. This is not a self-service step.
Common mistakes
- Pressure-washing "to deep clean". Pressure washing drives water into every seam, strips the patina, and etches the cement underneath. Even on "low setting" it damages GFRC.
- Using vinegar-based or citrus cleaners. Acidic cleaners dissolve the lime in the cement matrix. You'll see it immediately as surface dulling; damage is permanent.
Hands-on tips
- A soft brush for the burner pan interior (NOT the patina exterior) clears debris between the burner holes without damaging anything.
- If a drink spills, wipe it in the first 10 minutes. Sugar + ethanol + heat is harder to remove once it dries into the finish.
- Keep the cover pulled snug — a loose cover traps moisture against the finish, which is worse than no cover.
Questions people ask
Can I seal the GFRC with concrete sealer?
Not without specific dealer guidance. The patina process is designed to breathe; adding a sealer over it can trap moisture and change the finish color. Call Prism customer service before applying anything.
What if the finish starts to chalk?
Minor surface chalking is normal after 2-3 years of outdoor exposure, especially in high-UV climates. A gentle wipe with a damp cloth clears it. If chalking is heavy, contact your dealer.
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