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Cleaning Granite Tombstones
When cleaning granite tombstones it is best to follow
the same prescription for cleaning limestone, sandstone
or marble tombstones. Additionally, due to granite's
durability, it is all right to use a more aggressive
scrubbing technique. You can also use a pressure washer
on granite tombstones as long as it is in stable
condition and reveals no fracturing or cracks.
A word of caution, when using a pressure washer be
careful if the tombstone's carving or engraved areas
have any kind of coloring in it such as black. The
pressure washer can and will strip it out leaving little
or no contrast for the viewer to read the lettering on
the tombstone. Taking this into consideration it is best
to use a pressure washer only on granite tombstones that
have no contrasting paint in the engraved areas.
On polished granite tombstones, calcium deposits from
hardened water often leave a hazed coating on the
surface. It is recommended to use a heavy duty
non-metallic scouring pad to remove these calcium
deposits. You can also purchase one from a grocery
store. Just make certain it is safe to use on granite.
Using a non-ionic soap or detergent and water you can
scrub the polished surface thoroughly with the scouring
pad to remove the deposits.
Bronze Tombstones
Bronze Tombstones consist of a bronze plaque mounted to
a base usually of granite or concrete and lay flat at
lawn level. As a result of being mounted flat, bronze
tombstones are more susceptible to standing water and
landing debris.
Since bronze tombstones consist of two components you
can utilize the cleaning method for cleaning soft stone
for a concrete base, and the polished granite method for
cleaning the granite base.
The bronze plaque is furnished with a factory applied
lacquer coating to seal and preserve the original
appearance. Over a period of time this finish will
eventually deteriorate and is accelerated through
neglect. Proper care will preserve the finish and
prevent the need for restoration.
Here is a good manual titled "Preserving Bronze Plaques
And Memorials". It provides all the instructions you
need as well as a list of supplies. You can also
purchase the preservation kit with the necessary
supplies or just the wax here. |
