A headstone is a lasting tribute, a permanent record of a life lived. As a piece of outdoor architecture, it faces constant assault from the elements: sun, rain, pollutants, and organic growth. To ensure this enduring memorial remains legible and beautiful for generations, routine care and preservation are essential. At Shastone, we craft memorials designed to last, but even the hardest granite or marble requires proper maintenance. Here are our professional tips for preserving a headstone over time.
1. Tips for Preserving a Headstone: Prioritize Gentle Preservation
The key rule for headstone care is do no harm. Many common cleaning practices can permanently damage the stone.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Never use household detergents, bleach, abrasive cleaners, or power tools on a headstone.
- Bleach (Chlorine): Can pit the surface of softer stones like marble and limestone, and can cause discoloration and weakening over time.
- Vinegar (Acid): Acids will chemically react with calcium carbonate in marble, causing etching and irreversible surface damage.
- High Pressure Washing: The intense force can chip stone, loosen mortar, and damage the natural mineral structure, especially in older or weathered sections.
Choose the Right Tools
Always use soft tools for cleaning. You want to remove organic growth, not the stone itself.
- Brushes: Stick to natural bristle brushes (like horsehair), soft plastic scrubbing pads, or wooden scrapers. Avoid wire brushes or stiff nylon, which can scratch the polished surface of granite or the soft surface of marble.
- Water: Use only plain, clean water initially. If the stone is heavily soiled, use a specific, non-ionic detergent designed for natural stone or a very mild dish soap.
2. The Step by Step Cleaning Process
For a thorough, safe cleaning, follow these steps sequentially:
Step 1: Rinse and Soak
Liberally wet the entire headstone with clean water. Do not try to clean the stone when dry, as this can grind surface grit into the pores. Allow the water to soak into the stone for a few minutes. If it is marble or limestone, keep the surface wet throughout the entire cleaning process.
Step 2: Apply and Scrub
Apply your specialized stone cleaner or mild soap solution. Gently scrub the surface, focusing on areas with green or black organic growth (algae, lichen, and moss).
- Target Growth: Gently work the brush in a circular motion, or vertically, depending on the inscription. Be extra careful around delicate lettering and carvings.
- Organic Growth: If tough lichen or moss is present, apply the stone cleaner and let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes before gently scrubbing. The cleaner needs time to loosen the organism’s bond with the stone.
Step 3: Final Rinse
Rinse the stone completely, removing all traces of the cleaning solution. Residual soap can attract dirt and speed up future deterioration.
3. Tips for Preserving a Headstone: Long Term Preservation Tips
Preservation is a year round commitment, not just a once a year cleaning.
- Avoid Waxing or Sealing: While home surfaces are often sealed, it is rarely recommended for outdoor memorials. Sealants can trap moisture beneath the surface, leading to flaking or discoloration when that moisture freezes and expands.
- Clear Debris Regularly: Routinely remove fallen leaves, pine needles, or flowers. Organic material left lying on the stone will decompose and leave behind stubborn, acidic stains.
- Monitor Nearby Plants: If a tree or shrub is casting heavy shade directly onto the memorial, it will encourage the rapid growth of moss and lichen. Trimming branches to allow more sunlight and air circulation can significantly reduce biological growth.
By dedicating time to gentle and consistent care, you preserve the memorial’s structural and aesthetic integrity, ensuring the tribute remains a lasting, dignified testament to your loved one.