Pre wet the stone with clean water.
Best thing to clean marble headstone.
To clean stained marble mix baking soda and water until it s a thick paste.
Knowing how to clean a marble headstone the one placed to commemorate a special loved one helps you to continue the care and respect your loved one deserves.
Soak the stone by spraying it down with a hose or dumping a bucket of clean water over the entire surface.
Because marble is a crystalline metamorphosed limestone composed primarily of calcite and dolomite it is more susceptible to erosion and decomposition due to exposure.
Among other things signs of physical damage might include chipping cracking peeling pitting etc of the surface.
Soak the stone with water to saturate any growth that may be present.
Or obviously missing portions of the tombstone marker.
Avoid cleaning limestone marble or sandstone more than once every 18 months.
Marble needs to be treated even more gently than granite.
Only marble that is in good condition should be cleaned.
Using rubber gloves soak a clean cloth or sponge with the liquid and rub it into the stain on the marble headstone.
Inspect the entire headstone for cracks wear and signs of damage.
How to clean marble headstones.
After applying the cleaning solution wash the headstone thoroughly with clean water and a clean cloth.
Never use power washers to clean white marble gravestones as the force can destroy the patina.
Once you have scrubbed the headstone rinse thoroughly.
In addition do not attempt to clean a headstone marker or memorial that exhibits physical damage or instability.
Apply it to the stain and cover it with plastic for 24 hours.
Headstones can be very porous and can soak up the cleaning solution before it has a chance to work.
Before starting on any headstone that is not a direct family member be sure to check with local and state laws.
Steps to clean a marble headstone.
If there is growth remove using a wooden scraper.
Before you attempt to clean a headstone you must first check its condition.
This will help to eliminate any streaking and avoid erosion on the stone.
Use a damp cloth to wipe away the mixture repeating the process if the stain is still there.
It is important that you know what type of stone you are dealing with.
If these are present it may be best to leave it as is.
Weathering of the inscription that renders it difficult impossible to read.
Wash and dry the marble headstone.
Instead rinse with clean rain water to remove bird droppings and other debris whenever needed.
Different types will require different cleaning methods.
Kaye wagner has been working in the fields of journalism and public relations since 2006 and is a recipient of a national hearst award.
Take precautions before cleaning a headstone.
Cleaning weak marble can result in further irreparable damage.
In some areas it may be illegal to do anything to a headstone that is not one of an immediate family member.