
Maintenance and cleaning of decorative cornices and frames
November 3, 2025
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The first concern concerns dust , which tends to naturally settle on protruding profiles and grooves, especially at the top. For cleaning, a soft cloth, an antistatic duster, or, where possible, a vacuum cleaner with suitable nozzles are sufficient. Gentle, regular movements help avoid accumulations and streaks, especially over highly detailed frames or near lights.
Painted surfaces can be touched up locally in case of marks, small bumps, or subsequent work (such as replacing light bulbs or repairing electrical systems). In these cases, it's important to use the same paint used originally, or at least a product with the same finish (matte, super matte, satin), to avoid creating spots of varying gloss. In some situations, it's best to touch up the entire section of the sail or the section of the frame between two corners, rather than a very small spot, to better camouflage the work.
Over time, microcracks may appear between the cornice and the ceiling or along the joints between the cornices, especially in buildings subject to settlement or temperature fluctuations. These cracks are often aesthetic rather than structural in nature and can be addressed by opening the defect, applying elastic filler, light sanding, and repainting. Using flexible fillers reduces the likelihood of the phenomenon recurring quickly.
For polyurethane or polystyrene frames, it's important to avoid aggressive detergents or solvents that could damage the material. If the frames have been properly painted, the paint film partially protects the substrate, but it's still good practice to use gentle, well-diluted products, especially during extraordinary cleaning.
For recessed lighting fixtures, maintenance may primarily involve replacing light sources (LED strips, power supplies, spotlights). During construction, it's advisable to plan solutions that allow access to parts that will eventually need replacing. During work, it's a good idea to protect the edges with tape and sheets to avoid scratches and bumps on the finished surfaces.
With a little periodic attention—dusting, visual inspection for cracks, and various touch-ups—decorative cornices and cornices maintain their role as a "silent frame" for rooms for a long time, without requiring invasive work or frequent refinishing.
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• They are cleaned like normal ceilings and walls, with soft cloths or light dusting.
• Any localized cracks can be repaired with targeted filling and a new coat of paint.
• Frames and cornices painted with washable products are more resistant to dust and small marks.
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• In case of infiltrations or structural movements, recurrent cracks may appear.
• Very articulated profiles collect more dust and require greater attention when cleaning.







