How Do You Clean Granite Cemetery Headstones?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

, , , ,
  1. The safest way to clean a headstone is to use natural clean water or distilled water.
  2. Using a bucket and lots of water, keep the stone wet through the entire washing process.
  3. In order to clean a polished or honed granite memorial stone, wash it well with a soft, damp cloth.

Can you use vinegar on granite headstones?


Do not use any ammonia, vinegar or lemon cleaner

because the acid components will devour the surface of the granite. Next soak a clean cloth in soapy water and drain the cloth several times to remove excess water. Finally, clean the granite grave monument thoroughly.

How do you clean a granite gravestone at a cemetery?

Mix:

Non-ionic detergents

are generally recommended for cleaning granite headstones. Mix just one-ounce of non-ionic detergent to 5 gallons of water. Apply: Use a brush to gently apply the cleaning solution. Always test the solution to ensure the best results after the area has dried.

How long does a granite headstone last?

While technically some granites are harder than others, ANY granite

will essentially last forever

. Therefore, your granite memorial should look and weigh the same today as it would in 100,000 years or more.

What is best to clean granite headstones?

Mix:

Non-ionic detergents

are generally recommended for cleaning granite headstones. Mix just one-ounce of non-ionic detergent to 5 gallons of water. Apply: Use a brush to gently apply the cleaning solution. Always test the solution to ensure the best results after the area has dried.

What headstones last the longest?


A flat quartzite headstone, with laser engraving

, is the longest-lasting headstone. It can last centuries if the weather is the only factor in degradation. Quartzite is a very hard material that can withstand almost all climates & the laser-etched engraving will last as long as the headstone does.

How do you get a rust stain out of a granite headstone?

At a minimum, you will need a bucket, several liters of clean water, a gentle dish soap like Ivory, some rags and cotton swabs. If the stone has mold, mildew or rust stains, you’ll also need

hydrogen peroxide, baking soda and a soft-bristled brush

. Rust stains also benefit from iron removal products.

Can you use CLR on granite?

Can I use CLR on my granite countertop? We do not recommend using our CLR Pro Calcium, Lime and Rust Remover on granite, however,

our CLR Pro Bath & CLR Pro Kitchen Cleaners are safe on granite.

How do you get hard water stains off granite headstones?


Take a few drops of dishwashing liquid in a bucket filled with 2 liters of water

. Do not use any ammonia, vinegar or lemon cleaner because the acid components will devour the surface of the granite. Next soak a clean cloth in soapy water and drain the cloth several times to remove excess water.

Can you wax a granite headstone?

Luckily, regular cleanings can keep granite headstones looking new for years while preventing damage from occurring. … Let it air dry thoroughly before adding a protective coating to the granite. Finally,

apply a thin layer of paste wax

, let it dry, then buff the surface with a dry cloth.

What is the average cost of a granite headstone?

However, granite is popular because it’s durable and relatively affordable, no matter the color. The average headstone cost is

around $450

. Marble is a more expensive option, but many people prefer its more polished appearance.

What is the average price of a granite headstone?

However, granite is popular because it’s durable and relatively affordable, no matter the color. The average headstone cost is

around $450

. Marble is a more expensive option, but many people prefer its more polished appearance.

Is granite or marble better for headstone?


Granite is a much harder material and lasts considerably longer than marble

. Marble is softer and will likely deteriorate over time by cracking, chipping, and eroding, especially in outdoor elements. It is common to see marble tombstones that are decades or centuries old that are very difficult to read.

Why do gravestones turn black?

The reason is most likely

algae, lichen, moss, mold, or mildew growth and stains

. These growths develop on the surface, making headstones and memorials look dark and dirty.

Why do you put rocks on gravestones?

Jews believed that placing the stones on a

grave would keep the soul down in this world

. Some people find comfort in this. Another interpretation suggests that the stones will keep demons and golems from getting into the graves. permanence of memory and will not die.

Can I make a headstone myself?


Yes

, you can put your own headstone on a grave in almost areas in The States. The major factor if you are allowed to put and/or make your own headstone, would be the cemetery that you choose. Some cemeteries will allow any type of headstone, many don’t for aesthetics.

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.