Caution Seeded in Sprucing up Historic Cemetery Markers

A monument should only be cleaned once every four to six years.

Photo by: Bonnie King

(SALEM, Ore.) - Cleaning a cemetery monument for Memorial Day? The Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries is offering some tips on how to do more good than harm.

Seeing monuments covered in vines and moss or caked on dirt prompt people to venture out before Memorial Day to spiffy up grave markers with the best intentions, said Kuri Gill, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department's (OPRD) historic cemeteries program coordinator. "The way they complete their cleaning, though, can diminish their efforts," she added.

Gill said that cleaning monuments damaged by everyday outdoor elements would only make the problem worse. "Although grave markers are usually made of seemingly strong materials, they are fragile. A trained conservator is needed."

Monuments also can be cleaned too frequently, said Gill. "It should only happen once every four to six years, although a regular water rinse in the right conditions is just fine."

Timing can be important, added Gill. "Marker materials are sensitive to extreme weather conditions, so they shouldn*t be cleaned when a freeze is possible within the next three days, or when it*s hot and sunny."

Gill said people also should avoid cleaning a monument if gently tapping on the its surface produces a hollow sound, or if cracks, flaking or eroding granular surfaces are visible. Gill offered these cleaning guidelines:
Equipment to Use

• High quality, natural bristle brushes of various sizes
• Protective eyeglasses and rubber gloves
• Soft tooth brushes
• Wooden craft sticks
• Clean cosmetic sponges
• White rags
• Plastic buckets
• Cotton swabs and toothpicks
• Compressed Air (60 psi max) or small broom

NOTE: NEVER USE metal tools, scouring pads, adhesive tape or bleach. Cleaning Process

Gently brush or blow off loose materials, and pre-wet the marker with clean water. Clean all sides from bottom to top to avoid stains and streaks.

Rinse frequently, do not use dry brush on the stone. Dip brush frequently to reduce friction or have wet from hose running constantly as you brush. Repeat if necessary.

If water does not do it, there are a few safe cleaners, non-ionic detergents (Photo-Flo, Orvus, Vulpex). Do not allow cleansers to dry on the monument and rinse frequently. Plant Removal

If plants are attached to the monument - DO NOT pull them off. Cut the plant at its base. If it is long, cut about every six inches. Let it die off, or apply herbicide to cut ends without getting it on monument. When the plant has withered, wet the stone and gently pull it away from the monument. Use a wood scraper or brush to completely remove plant residue. Organic Growth Removal

Wet the surface, and apply architectural; anti-microbial product, D-2 liquid product with a roller, brush or sprayer. Gently scrub surface with a natural bristle brush, and allow the D-2 to stay on surface for one to ten minutes; do not allow it to dry. Gently scrub the surface again and rinse thoroughly.