May 26 2022 0Comment

Cleaning a Grave Site

When you have a loved one buried in a cemetery, you can be certain you can maintain the gravesite and keep it looking its best. This is not something that is always easy to do, since grave markers can be delicate. If you are not sure how to maintain the gravesite, there are some tips that directors of funeral homes in Tulsa, OK want you to remember.

You want to assess the headstone first. If you see that it is cracking, crumbling, or has other structural issues, you do not want to use any hard-bristled brushes or anything else that can cause more damage. Be sure to wipe leaves and other debris from the headstone so that when you wet it, they do not become a soggy mess. Remember that you do not want to use any power-washing tools or any harsh chemicals, since they can damage the marker.

If the headstone is made of marble, you want to start by wetting the entire thing with water. Because marble is porous, you want to wet it so that what it absorbs is water and not the solutions you use to clean it. If you see signs of algae, mold, or anything else, you want to dilute a very small amount of ammonia into the water and use that over the marble. Only do that if the stone is light. If it is dark, then you want to use a bit of soap and water. Always try this out on a corner of the stone to make sure it does not leave a stain.

If you have a granite headstone, the process is similar. You want to wet it completely to make sure the stone absorbs water and not the cleaning solution. You do not want to use ammonia for granite since it can leave stains. Instead, stick with a detergent that is made for delicate items. You want to use only one ounce in 5 gallons of water to avoid any issues. With a soft brush, you want to apply the solution and start wiping away any dirt. If you come across areas that are fragile or that have flakes, avoid them, since that can make the damage worse.

These are all vital things you want to keep in mind when getting ready to maintain the gravesite for a loved one. It is essential you know what tools and solutions to use so that you do not cause the marker any damage. Depending on what material the marker is made of, the process may vary. Be sure to reach out to experts to learn more about how to maintain the marker. You can always reach out to a Tulsa, OK funeral home like us. We have years of experience and we can ensure that you get the quality services you need after the loss of a loved one. You can give us a call right now or you can visit us today to speak with one of our experts about this and more.