General Maintenance for Your Lyonstone Fireplace Mantel

Lyonstone mantels are designed to be timeless focal points in your space — and like any refined architectural feature, they benefit from a little care to stay looking their best for years to come.

Annual Touch-Up Routine

We recommend a light, seasonal maintenance check to remove settled dust, protect finishes, and ensure the structural beauty of your mantel remains intact — especially in high-use environments.

You’ll Want to Have:

A soft-bristle brush or handheld vacuum (for gentle surface dust removal)
Microfiber cloths for polishing and touch-ups
Mild pH-neutral cleaner (avoid harsh chemicals or abrasives)
Work gloves (to protect from residue during deeper cleaning)
Drop cloth or towel (to protect nearby flooring or decor)

Optional for Deeper Maintenance:

Fine steel wool (0000 grade) to remove minor marks or soot buildup on cast stone finishes
Masonry-safe sealant or polish (only if recommended for your specific finish — ask us first!)

Important Notes

Do not use water-based cleaners excessively — especially on natural or hand-finished surfaces.
Avoid abrasive sponges or acidic products, as they can dull or etch the surface over time.
If your fireplace is active and wood- or gas-burning, ensure the mantel is protected from prolonged heat exposure and soot — regular inspection of venting and surrounding materials is encouraged.

Need support or product-specific care tips?  📩 Email us at: [contact@lyonstone.com]

We’re always here to help your space stay as beautiful as the day it was installed.

Lyonstone Mantel Maintenance — 5 Simple Steps

Turn Off the Fuel Supply 

Before beginning any maintenance, ensure the gas supply (Natural Gas or Propane) is fully shut off at the source. For electric systems, power down the breaker for added safety.

Carefully Remove Decorative Stones 

Separate and lift out the decorative media (lava rocks or stones), keeping different types apart. Lay them on a clean surface or drop cloth. You can wash them with warm soapy water — or even run them through a dishwasher if heat-safe.

Access the Burner Chamber 

With the help of another person, gently lift the burner assembly. Place a thick towel or protective pad on the mantel edge to avoid scuffing or damage. Once lifted, vacuum out the base to remove any dust, soot, or debris.

Check Burner Nozzles 

Inspect the burner head for any blockages or wear. Look closely at the nozzles and ensure nothing is clogging them. Refer to Lyonstone’s system-specific guidelines if you notice buildup or uneven flame output.

Review Ignition Components

For manual or pilot-ignited units, follow the recommended upkeep in your Lyonstone system manual. This includes ensuring clean pilot assemblies, secure wire connections, and checking for signs of corrosion or residue buildup.

Understanding and Caring for Lyonstone Concrete Mantels

The Beauty of Natural Concrete

Each Lyonstone mantel is crafted from premium concrete — a natural material known for its character and charm. Because of its organic makeup, no two pieces are identical. Variations are not flaws; they’re features that make your fireplace uniquely yours.

Before installation, we recommend reviewing multiple pieces together to appreciate the natural diversity in tone and texture.

Concrete Characteristics to Expect:

Subtle variations in color and shading
Slight differences in thickness or edges
Naturally imperfect surfaces with small air holes or irregularities
Over time, you may notice patina development, soft fading, or minor surface hairline cracks — these are cosmetic and do not impact structural performance

These are all hallmarks of handcrafted concrete and reflect the authenticity and richness of Lyonstone’s artisan work.

Care & Maintenance Guide

Your Lyonstone fireplace deserves thoughtful care to maintain its appearance over the years. Here’s how:

Basic Cleaning:

Wipe surfaces gently using a soft cloth or sponge with mild, pH-neutral soap
Avoid harsh cleaners or acidic agents that may damage the sealed finish

Sealing & Protection:

Concrete is porous and should be protected with a high-quality sealer
Sealing doesn’t make the surface waterproof, but it adds time to react to spills before stains can set in
Spills (especially acidic ones like wine, citrus, or vinegar) should be cleaned immediately

Restoring the Surface:

Use Lyonstone’s recommended Concrete Refresh Sealer periodically to revive the surface and maintain its finish
Scratches or chips can be addressed using a patch kit — though some color or texture difference may remain visible post-repair

For Grease or Stubborn Stains:

Mineral spirits can be used carefully on greasy marks
Avoid pressure washing or abrasive tools

Long-Term Aging with Grace

As your mantel ages, exposure to air, light, and environment will create a natural patina — adding even more depth and character to the concrete. Hairline cracks or fading over time are expected and do not indicate any structural issue.

Each Lyonstone piece is made to evolve beautifully with your space — aging like stone, yet timeless in style.