Maintaining the memory of our loved ones even after their passing is a heartfelt gesture. While cleaning a funeral plaque is not legally required, regular maintenance is essential to honor their memory. To ensure effective cleaning, it is important to follow specific measures tailored to each memorial plaque type. Discover the techniques outlined below to properly clean a cement funeral plaque.
Preparing the Necessary Equipment Cleaning a Cement Funeral Plaque
To restore the luster of a funeral plaque, gather the following materials. As cement plaques require eco-friendly cleaning methods, you will need:
Clear water
Soapy water or black soap
Hydrogen peroxide
Bucket
Baking soda and soda crystals
Garden shears
Soft sponge
Soft brush
Dry cloth
Garbage bag
Consider using gloves to protect your hands during the cleaning process. Gloves can minimize the risk of scratches or injuries, as cement plaques are susceptible to damage. Avoid using chemicals and detergents, as they are not recommended for this type of plaque.
Procedures for Effective Cleaning:
Once you have the necessary equipment, follow these steps for a thorough cleaning:
Clear the area: Remove all items from the grave, including flower pots and arrangements. Use garden shears to remove faded flowers, prune dead leaves, and eliminate weeds that affect the plaque’s appearance. Collect all waste and dispose of it in a garbage bag.
Dust removal: Use a soft brush to gently sweep away dust and debris from the plaque’s surface. Be cautious not to damage the plaque during this step, as it sets the foundation for successful cleaning.
Cleaning with soapy water: Apply black soap or soapy water onto the plaque, focusing on one section at a time. Clean the plaque incrementally, ensuring even coverage. Rinse the plaque with clean water using a brush once the entire surface has been cleaned.
Drying: Use a clean, dry cloth to thoroughly dry the grave plaque.
Some tips for successful cleaning:
Moss removal: In humid areas or after prolonged exposure, moss may appear on tombstones. To clean mossy areas, mix 3 teaspoons of baking soda with a liter of water and use a brush to scrub the affected area. Wait for 20-30 minutes before rinsing the plaque with clean water.
Stubborn stains: For tough stains during cleaning, utilize hydrogen peroxide. Apply it to the stained area to lift the stubborn marks. This simple yet effective trick can help restore the plaque’s appearance.
Enhancing shine: To enhance the luster of a cement plaque, use baking soda. Create a mixture of baking soda and water, applying it evenly across the surface. Allow it to sit for an hour before drying with a cloth. This process will bring back the plaque’s shine.
Repainting options: If desired, you can repaint a cement grave marker using bi-component polyurethane paint. This type of paint ensures long-lasting durability and allows for custom color choices.
Additional Care:
While the law doesn’t require tombstone maintenance, neglecting it for an extended period can result in the local authorities taking possession of it. It is important to address the following issues promptly:
Cracks: Fragility arises when cracks are present on a funeral plaque. Repair them by melting wax onto the cracked area using a lit candle. Smooth the wax with a spatula or similar object to eliminate excess.
Inscriptions: If the inscriptions on the plaque fade or disappear, it is advisable to have them rewritten by specialists.
Subsidence: Rectify any subsidence issues by refilling the earth around the grave. If the monument has shifted, consider seeking professional assistance to realign it properly.
Grave subsidence: In the event of grave subsidence, refill the earth around the grave to ensure its stability. If the monument has shifted, it may require professional assistance to properly realign it.
When cracks are present on the funeral plaque, it becomes fragile. As soon as you notice it, it is good to proceed immediately with the repairs. This can be done by yourself with a candle. Just turn it on and try to melt the wax at the cracked spot. The cracks will be filled after a few minutes. You can use a spatula or similarly shaped object to smooth the area and remove excess wax.
Regarding the inscriptions on the funeral plaque, it is advisable to have them rewritten by specialists. For cases of subsidence of the grave, it is necessary to put back the earth around the grave. If the monument has moved, consider carrying out straightening work. This requires method and financial means. The ideal is to seek the services of an expert in the field.
Conclusion:
While families can undertake the cleaning and maintenance of funeral plaques, specialized companies can be contacted for assistance, especially in remote areas or when availability is a concern. Remember, regular cleaning and maintenance ensure that the cement funeral plaque remains a fitting tribute to the memory of your loved one.
