Preserving History: How to Clean and Restore Headstones

Tennessee weather is beautiful but demanding. Between the humid summers and the frosty winters, headstones can take a beating. Over time, lichen, moss, and biological growth can obscure the beauty of the stone. Fortunately, regular maintenance can keep a memorial looking new for a century.

Why You Should Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Many people assume that bleach is the best cleaner. However, this is a dangerous misconception. Bleach contains salts that can penetrate the stone. As these salts crystallize, they can cause the surface to flake or “spall.” Similarly, acidic cleaners can eat away at marble and limestone.

Instead, you should use biological cleaners designed specifically for masonry. These products are pH-neutral and safe for the environment. Furthermore, they continue to work even after you leave the cemetery. They kill the roots of the moss without harming the granite.

A Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

Cleaning a headstone is a meditative process. You should always start with plenty of clean water.

1. Saturate the Stone: Use a spray bottle or a bucket of water. Ensure the stone is completely wet before applying any cleaner.
2. Apply Your Cleaner: Use a specialized solution like D/2 or similar biological cleaners.
3. Scrub Gently: Use a soft-bristled brush. Never use wire or metal brushes, as these will scratch the polish.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: Do not let the cleaner dry on the stone. Rinse until the water runs clear.
5. Dry with a Cloth: Use a soft towel to prevent water spots.

When to Call a Professional

Sometimes, a simple cleaning is not enough. For instance, if a stone has shifted or tilted, it needs professional leveling. An unlevel stone is prone to cracking or falling. Similarly, older marble stones may require “re-lettering” if the original carving has worn away.

At TN Memorials, we specialize in stone restoration. We can repair chips and stabilize foundations. Moreover, we offer on-site date cutting. If a family memorial needs a final date added, we can do it right at the gravesite. This saves you the cost and stress of moving the monument.

Dealing with Tennessee Biological Growth

In East Tennessee, we deal with a lot of “orange” lichen. This particular growth is quite stubborn. It feeds on the minerals in the stone and can be very difficult to remove. Consequently, we recommend a professional evaluation if you see heavy orange or black staining.

Material	Common Issue	Safe Tool
Granite	Hard water spots	Soft nylon brush
Marble	Sugaring/Erosion	Very soft sponge
Bronze	Oxidation/Verdigris	Specialized wax

Ultimately, preservation is an act of love. By keeping a memorial clean, you are honoring the memory of the person it represents. Furthermore, you are ensuring that family history remains legible for your grandchildren. Therefore, make it a habit to visit and care for these sacred markers once or twice a year. As always, please contact us with any questions we might be able to answer for you.