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Headstones are a visible memorial to a life well-lived. However, after years of exposure to the elements, it’s common for these granite markers to become slightly discolored and stained. Give your loved one’s memory the honor it deserves by using the following five tips to regularly maintain these quality materials.

5 Tips for Cleaning a Headstone

1. Brush It Off Gently

headstoneDebris will collect on the surface and around the base of the headstone. Use a soft broom to gently brush off the twigs, dirt, and leaves and gather up any piles that are located in the general vicinity.

2. Wash It With Suds

Mix a couple of drops of dishwashing soap into a large bucket of water and submerge a clean rag into the suds, letting it soak for a few seconds to ensure it’s fully permeated with cleaning fluid. Wring it out and wipe down every surface, starting at the bottom to prevent streaking.

3. Rinse It Clean

Once the entire headstone has been washed clean, it’s time to rinse off the suds. Fill another bucket with clean water and dip in a fresh rag. Wring it out gently, retaining a good amount of water in the fabric, and wipe down the surface until every bit of soap has been removed.

4. Dry It Completely

Water can stain granite if the proper measures aren’t taken to dry the material, rendering your cleaning efforts unsuccessful. After the suds have been thoroughly rinsed away, use a clean, dry cloth to soak up any excess water from the stone’s surface.

5. Clean the Crevices

A lot of dirt can collect within the tiny grooves that make up the inscription, causing a discoloration that can muddle the wording. Open a pack of cotton swabs, dip them in clean water, and gently rub along the crevices. Change out the cotton swabs as they get dirty to preserve the lettering’s appearance.

 

Learn more about how to properly care for a loved one’s headstone by connecting with the experts at McGee Monuments in Rochester, NY. This family-owned business has been providing quality memorials and monuments since 1900, and they offer over 100 unique designs for their clients to choose from. Call (585) 546-4602 to speak with a representative or visit their website for additional information about their services.

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