Monument Care & Maintenance
Caring for a Memorial That Lasts
Practical guidance on cleaning, repairing, setting, and leveling monuments — so the tribute you've chosen remains dignified for generations.
Why Care Matters
A Memorial Is Built to Endure
Granite, bronze, and marble are among the most durable materials on earth — but even the finest stone benefits from routine attention. Weathering, ground movement, biological growth, and the passage of time all leave their mark. Proper care preserves not just the appearance of a memorial, but the legibility of the inscriptions and the integrity of the stone itself.
Whether you are maintaining a monument you recently placed, restoring one that has been neglected, or preparing to set a new memorial, this guide covers everything you need to know — from the right cleaning products to the precise steps for a level, permanent installation.
Cleaning
Keeping the Stone Clean
Regular cleaning removes biological growth, environmental deposits, and surface staining before they become permanent. The right approach depends on the material and the type of soiling.
Gather the Right Supplies
Use a soft-bristle nylon brush, clean water, and a pH-neutral stone cleaner or diluted non-ionic soap (such as Orvus Paste or a dedicated monument cleaner). Never use wire brushes, abrasive pads, bleach, ammonia, vinegar, or pressure washers — these strip the polish, etch the surface, and accelerate deterioration.
Wet the Surface First
Thoroughly wet the entire monument with clean water before applying any cleaner. This prevents the cleaning solution from being absorbed too quickly into the stone and reduces the risk of streaking or residue.
Apply Cleaner and Scrub Gently
Apply the cleaner to a small section at a time. Work in circular motions with the soft brush, paying extra attention to carved lettering and relief areas where biological growth tends to accumulate. For lichen or heavy biological staining, a D/2 Biological Solution applied and left to dwell for several minutes is highly effective and cemetery-safe.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with clean water, working from top to bottom. Ensure no soap or cleaner residue remains in crevices or lettering channels. Residue left behind can attract dirt and accelerate future staining.
Bronze Plaques and Tablets
Bronze should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap, then rinsed and dried. A thin coat of paste wax (such as Johnson's Paste Wax or a dedicated bronze wax) applied annually protects the patina and slows oxidation. Never use abrasive cleaners or metal polishes on memorial bronze — they remove the intentional patina finish.
Pro Tips
- ◆Clean on a cool, overcast day — direct sun dries cleaner too fast and causes streaking.
- ◆Avoid cleaning in freezing temperatures; water trapped in micro-cracks can expand and cause spalling.
- ◆Annual cleaning is sufficient for most monuments in the Mid-South climate.
Need Professional Monument Care?
Alpha Omega Monuments provides cleaning, repair, re-leveling, and full monument setting services throughout West Tennessee, North Mississippi, and Eastern Arkansas. Contact us to discuss your needs.