Washing tombstones is a complex process that cannot be carried out haphazardly. Especially if we want to ensure the aesthetic appearance of the stone and its longevity. How to clean a tombstone? What products to use? We present proven methods for professional cleaning of tombstones.
What is a tombstone made of?
Before you start cleaning tombstones , it is worth familiarizing yourself with the materials that you may encounter when performing the above service. The variety of stones used to create tombstones means that each of them requires an individual approach when cleaning them.
- Granite – the most popular stone used in tombstones due to its durability and resistance to weather conditions. Granite is exceptionally hard. This makes it less susceptible to mechanical damage and chemical agents.
- Sandstone – a natural, porous stone that is characterized by high moisture absorption, which favors the growth of mosses and lichens. Sandstone is also more fragile and delicate than granite.
- Terrazzo – an artificial material, but with great durability. It is a mixture of cement, aggregate and dyes. Like sandstone, it is porous and can absorb water, which promotes the growth of fungi and algae.
Each of these materials requires specific cleaning and maintenance procedures that will not damage its structure or negatively affect its appearance.
What is the procedure for washing tombstones?
First of all, washing and cleaning tombstones cannot be treated as a one-time process or a so-called “holiday”. Washing tombstones should be treated as a regular service, which is aimed at cleaning and maintenance. During each cleaning, special care should be taken. All this so as not to damage the material from which it was made.
First things first – assessing the condition of the tombstone
First of all, the condition of the tombstone should be carefully assessed. First of all, it is worth paying attention to the type of material it was made of. It will also be necessary to assess the degree of dirtiness. It will also be necessary to check the technical condition. We recommend that you note any damage, such as cracks, gaps or erosion of the tombstone. Any damage noticed should be entered into the protocol and the client should be informed. When assessing the condition of the tombstone, you should pay attention to the presence of mosses, lichens or fungi, which may require specialist cleaning agents. The ideal product that will help get rid of microorganisms from tombstones is Clinex ALG . The product is exceptionally effective in removing green coatings from various surfaces. Its formula will perfectly cope with atmospheric dirt.
Selection of appropriate cleaning agents and tools for cleaning graves
The choice of appropriate means for cleaning graves depends on the type of material and type of contamination. The most important rule is to avoid strong acids and alkalis, which can permanently damage the cleaned surface. Therefore, it is worth using mild detergents with a neutral pH, which are equally effective at removing dirt without damaging the structure of the stone.
What to wash a tombstone with? A product with a slightly alkaline pH and high cleaning power is Clinex Blink . Its versatility and effectiveness make it extremely versatile and effective, which allows it to provide the highest quality of services. It helps remove dirt. It also contains sodium soap, which cares for the stone and gently polishes it. Fast evaporation and no streaks speed up the cleaning process, increasing work efficiency.
Tombstone washing techniques
You can then move on to how to clean a tombstone :
- Hand washing – this is the safest method of cleaning tombstones. It is especially recommended for delicate stones such as sandstone. Soft brushes and sponges are used for this purpose. It is important to avoid rough tools that can cause scratches on the surface of the stone. When washing a tombstone made of terrazzo, we recommend Clinex Lastrico . Its specialist formula, developed to deal with the most difficult dirt, is perfect for washing tombstones.
- Pressure Washing – This method is mainly used for hard stones such as granite. Be careful not to use too much pressure, which could damage the stone, especially in the case of porous materials such as sandstone.
- Steam cleaning – involves using hot steam to remove dirt from stones. This method is effective and safe for most materials, because the steam penetrates the surface of the stone, dissolving dirt, thus reducing the use of chemicals.
Rinse the tombstones
Regardless of the method used, it is extremely important to thoroughly rinse the surface being washed with water. Leaving dirt or detergent residue on the surface can lead to damage such as discoloration. When pressure washing, it is best to use water with the appropriate hardness. If possible, avoid hard water, which can leave limescale deposits.
Summary
Regular washing and maintenance of tombstones is not only a matter of aesthetics, but also a responsibility for maintaining the durability of the stone and respecting places of remembrance. The use of appropriate technologies and cleaning agents, adapted to the type of material from which the tombstone is made, allows it to be kept in good condition for many years. In addition, it is always worth reading the label of the cleaning agent before starting cleaning and using it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
In the case of delicate and historic tombstones, it is always worth consulting specialists in the field of stone conservation, so as not to damage historically and emotionally valuable monuments. After all, washing tombstones is a process that requires knowledge, appropriate tools and prudence so that the effects are long-lasting and safe for the structure of the stone.
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