Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I clean my kitchen or bathroom products?

Do not use any harsh chemicals or rough surface materials such as scourers. A soft cloth with warm soapy water will keep the finish in good condition and will ensure your warranty is maintained.

Why does Bella Vista recommend that I dry my stainless steel sink after rinsing?

Water contains dissolved minerals and salts. When the water dries on the sink these minerals are left behind, causing deposits or water spots that are visible on your sink’s finish. By drying your sink after rinsing, these spots are less likely to form. If you experience water spots or deposits, non-abrasive stainless steel cleaners or metal polishes will help to remove them. Wipe gently over the sink, in the same direction of the sink’s grain.

Will my stainless steel sink scratch?

Stainless steel sinks will scratch. Surface scratches will become less noticeable as your sink ages, the first scratches will always be the most noticeable. Over time, the sink will develop its own unique finish as light scratches blend into the sink’s grain. Bella Vista recommends the use of a bowl protector where possible to help protect the bowl from dents and heavy scratching. Most minor scratches can be softened with a stainless steel polishing cream. Rub with the grain, taking care to apply evenly across the product.

What chemicals are not recommended for use on my stainless steel sink?

Chemicals, solvents, and many household cleaners contain chlorides and acids which can react and damage stainless steel. Solutions of chlorine bleach, chlorides or citric acid found in many ordinary household cleaners can stain and corrode a stainless steel sink. Similarly, ensure you wipe up juices or acids from food immediately, as they can contain citric acids which over time can mark the surface. Do not allow liquid soaps or cleansers to dry on the sink’s surface, as they too can contain chemicals that can affect the high lustre of the sink.

How should I maintain my granite sink?

Avoid placing pots, pans, or other hot objects in excess of 280°C on the surface of the sink – the bottom of a pot or pan just removed from the burner can reach temperatures of over 600°C. Pots, pans, and other hot objects must be placed on appropriate potholders (made of wood, metal etc.) Avoid causing excessive “thermal shock” due to the presence of very hot and very cold objects on the sink at the same time. Do not use the sink as a cutting surface, rather, use a cutting board made of timber or polyethylene. Do not use harsh abrasive substances or metal cleaning pads (steel wool) to clean the sink because they may scratch the surface, making it susceptible to stains. Heavy or pointed objects that fall on the surface of the sink can damage it. Do not pour alcohol, acids, or any solvents in general into or onto the sink because they could react with the chemical structure of the sink and damage it beyond repair.

Do stainless steel sinks rust?

No, stainless steel sinks do not rust, however they may appear to if they come into contact with contaminants. Rust marks in stainless steel sinks can usually be a result of one or more factors. We recommend lightly scrubbing the stains with a mild cleanser in the direction of the sink’s grain. Particles need to be completely removed in order to stop them from returning. It is important to thoroughly dry the sink after cleaning. In cases where the problem is particularly persistent it may take several attempts to restore the sink to its pristine condition.

Some of the more common causes are: Steel wool pads, often used for cleaning – these will leave steel deposits on the sink which will cause rust marks to appear; steel containers, utensils or kitchenware items, like tin coated steel cans or pots can leave rust marks and stain the sink; iron deposits, often found in water when left on the sink’s surface can leave rust marks; solutions of chlorine bleach, chlorides or citric acid found in many ordinary household cleaners can stain and corrode a stainless steel sink.

What is the guarantee period on Bella Vista tapware?

The guarantee on our tapware varies depending on the model chosen. We currently offer 15, 25 and 50 year warranties. For further details click here.

Do I need to have my tapware or shower screen installed by a plumber?

A licensed plumber must be used for installation of any plumbing products (mixers, shower rails etc.) otherwise the guarantee may become void. Our shower screens do not need to be installed by a plumber. Our semi-framed screens are DIY friendly, but our frameless systems are a little bit more complicated to install well – we generally recommend using a professional installer that has experience with these systems.

Where are Bella Vista products made? 

Bella Vista products are proudly Australian designed, and the components that go into our products are sourced from leading European companies, primarily in Spain and Hungary. We currently manufacture offshore in China but retain our local assembly line processes and employ in-house staff to oversee quality control at all stages.

What is WaterMark?

WaterMark™ is a product quality certification mark provided by independent certifying authorities in Australia and New Zealand. It confirms the product complies with the Plumbing Code of Australia & New Zealand and the relevant Standards, which relate to product quality, including health and safety, and warrant that it is fit for purpose. WaterMark™ certification is mandatory for products to be legally installed in accordance with state and territory plumbing regulations. Products required to be certified are listed in the Plumbing Code and AS3500.000. WaterMark certification is your guarantee that you are purchasing a high quality product, suitable for Australian and New Zealand conditions, which can be legally installed in your home. The process to gain certification involves a detailed audit of the tapware factory. An applicant must demonstrate adherence to a strict quality control program for the supply of materials and the manufacturing process. The products themselves are also subjected to chemical analysis, strength testing and endurance testing (where, for example, the tap valves are opened and shut 50,000 times). It is only after passing all of these audits that WaterMark certification is granted

Will a Standard 1200x900mm or 900x900mm screen fit on a shower base?

In short, no. A 900x900mm shower base will become smaller once it has been recessed into the wall, therefore a standard 1200x900mm, 1000x1000mm or 900x900m screen will not work as they are designed to finish at the listed sizes. It is advisable with any job to measure for the actual screen required once base and walls are finished. The sizes we list for our screens are the actual sizes supplied. Only the person who is measuring the job site can determine the actual size of the screen that will fit. We carry glass in almost every 5mm increment, so we can customize the panels to suit whatever your final measurement is.

What is a custom made shower screen?

We offer custom size screens from straight cut glass. This gives us the ability to supply a custom ordered screen with a quick turnaround. This differs from screens that are made to measure which allow for the cutting of glass to suit walls and floors that may have run outs. Speak to your nearest reseller if you are unsure if this will work for you.

Is there an additional cost for a channel or brackets?

With all of our frameless glass you have the choice of a channel or brackets, depending on what your job requires. Additional costs may apply, depending on your selection. Please discuss this with your local Bella Vista stockist.

Can I have a sliding shower screen if I have a 1000–1100mm opening?

Due to the frameless sliding screen of this size using two glass panels, a smaller door opening is created, which in some cases may not be practical for the user. It is best to discuss your requirements with your bathroom supplier or installer to make sure this will work. In cases where your opening is less than 1200mm, we generally recommend using a pivot system which allows for a larger opening – our frameless screen doors can be opened both inwards and outwards.

When is a stabilising bar required?

We provide stabilising bars with any panel larger than 1300mm at no additional charge.

Frameless glass is very strong but when it is not stabilised at the top, it will have some movement. It is best to discuss your requirements with your installer or bathroom suppliers at the time of order.

Can I use a channel or brackets for the bottom of the glass?

It is not required, and we strongly advise against fitting anything that requires drilling of the floor, due to potential damage to your waterproofing. In addition, it may create pressure points underneath the glass which could cause issues due to wall movements throughout the warmer and cooler months. The glass needs to be raised a minimum of 3mm from any hard surface, which can be achieved with plastic glass setting blocks and then held in place via a silicone seal (also available in structural grade). This is more than sufficient. The lack of brackets or channel on the floor also enhances the frameless glass look of your screen.

Do you supply made to measure glass?

Yes, Bella Vista can supply cut glass on a made to measure basis. Speak to your local Bella Vista stockist for more information.

Does Bella Vista offer nano coating glass treatment for custom screens?

Nano coatings are available through limited Bella Vista stockists. Please contact us if you require more information.

Is a top plate required for a frameless shower?

It is advisable in most situations to use the top plate, as this adds additional strength and structure to your frameless screen. It will help it to last for many years. There are other options available, depending on your chosen screen, such as stabilising bars and glass shelves. You should discuss your options with your sales consultant and installer.

Are there limitations on the tapware you can buy for high pressure water system? 

Yes, there are limitations. The standard pressure in Australian homes fluctuates between 150kpa and 500kpa, however some homes have water pressure as high as 1000kpa, this will depend on the area in which you live. Speak to your plumber to find out if your area has high water pressure or visit your nearest plumbing supply store to speak to one of the salespeople about what your best options will be. Alternatively you could speak to your local water authority, about your water pressure.

What do I do if I have high water pressure?

Call a licensed plumber, there are several options your plumber can take to correct unequal pressure, like a pressure compensating valve.

Can Bella Vista tapware be used with low and high water pressure? 

Yes, Bella Vista tapware can be used with both low and high water pressure, if the pressure is no less than 150kpa and no more than 500kpa. Should the pressure exceed 500kpa our products can still be used, as long as an approved pressure limiting device is fitted.

What is the difference between mixers and taps, is one better than the other? 

Mixer taps have become much more popular in recent years due to both their design and function. Mixer taps use a ceramic disc cartridge technology to mix and control the flow of water, as opposed to conventional tapware which uses a rubber valve system. Conventional three piece tapware can be fitted with ceramic discs although it is not always a standard inclusion, so whether you choose mixers or taps, it all comes down to your preference.