Memorial Care Guide

Memorial Care Guide Frequent memorial care and cleaning will preserve the stone from deteriorating over time. Many cemeteries water and mow the grass frequently which builds deposits on the memorial if not properly cared for. We use commercial grade products and have many specific techniques to clean your stone. We also sell custom fitted clear memorial covers that are sized and fitted to your memorial. Please inquire if you are interested in this service!

Overview
• Water + Carbon -> Carbonic Acid. Carbonic acid is a weak acid that over time will break down granite.
• Iron + Water + Oxygen -> Rust. Trace amounts of iron is present in the water.
• Calcium + Carbonate -> Calcium Carbonate. The white hard water deposits seen on memorials is calcium carbonate.

Below is a list of tips that we have acquired over the years to help aid in memorial care:
• Clear memorial covers will eliminate any environment factors from soiling the granite. Place on the granite during the water season.
• Cleaning quarterly is necessary to maintain the memorial
• Products such as: Granite Gold Cleaner, Calcium Lime Rust, Iron Out, Vinegar, Dawn Dish Soap, or general bathroom cleaning products can be used to clean the memorial
• Obtain a stiff bristle brush for scrubbing and have enough water on hand to remove all the cleaning product. Leaving product on the memorial may cause further damage.
• Be VERY CAUTIOUS not to apply products that could potentially cause damage to porcelain pictures or bronze plaques
• Do not apply too much pressure to damage the memorial especially when cleaning between the memorial and vase
• A razor blade may also be used on the polished surface to remove hard water buildup
• Frequently wipe the memorial with a microfiber cloth to remove grime and water deposits. You may also apply Rain-X as a water repellent.
• Yearly applications of a granite sealer will further protect the memorial. Lowes offers granite sealers, such as Granite Gold that can be applied as directed.

General Suggestions
• Frequently change artificial flowers as the Styrofoam breaks down and clogs the vase from properly draining. If the vase does not properly drain it could freeze in the winter and break
• If placing a shepherd hook, place the hook where the flowers will not drain additional water on the memorial

We highly discourage:
a. Placing any metal on the memorial as this will rust
b. Gluing ornaments or taping items to the memorial as this will either dye the memorial or when removed pull off the original polish
c. Putting flower saddles on the top of the memorial as they contain metal that can rust and hold water
d. Wrapping memorials in lights or cords as dirt gets behind the cords