WHAT “TO DO” AND WHAT “NOT TO DO”

  • DO check out the stability of the stone to ensure it can withstand washing
  • DO soak the stone thoroughly with water (after rainy weather is the best time)
  • DO use a soft bristle brush
  • DO rinse with water
  • Do keep vegetation away from stones
  • DO NOT sand blast as it causes irreparable damage to the stone
  • DO NOT power wash as it can also cause extensive erosion of the stone
  • DO NOT clean a stone that is already showing signs of damage such as spalling, flaking, etc.
  • DO NOT use a wire or hard bristled brush to clean surface
  • DO NOT use bleach as it can stain and cause spalling of the stone as chlorides attempt to resurface
  • DO NOT use any herbicides/chemicals around monuments. The ground and then the monument soaks up the substance and it may result in staining
  • DO NOT use paper and chalk or crayon to make a rubbing of historic stones as it can cause damage.

 

Remember: Not only can cleaning damage the stone; it also can remove the stone’s patina, acquired with age, thereby reducing the aesthetics of an historic cemetery.

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