Keeping gravestones in Chester clean and properly taken care of is a great way to pay respect to your loved ones who have passed on. Over time dirt, mould, bird droppings and acid rain can weaken and cause damage to gravestones. Cleaning of course restores the gravestone to its former glory and protects it from cracking, chipping or staining. It is recommended that to preserve the good condition of the gravestone that it is cleaned every 1 to 3 years (much depends on the type of stone used and where the gravestone is situated). Or a clean is required as soon as you notice that the gravestone has a build up of dirt and has lost its shine.
In Chester, cleaning gravestones is not as simple as it may seem. It is a labour of love that can be a bit tricky. You wouldn’t want to damage the gravestone which is why it is better to leave the cleaning to a professional. At Birkenhead Monumental we have the experience and knowledge to clean and restore these stone symbols of love that preserves and protects against damaging elements such as, carbonaceous or sooty soiling, urban grime and dirt organic substances (such as algae, fungi, lichens, mosses), stains (metallic, oils, etc) and efflorescence (salts). Power washing and the use of acid household cleaners and regular tap water contain chemicals that can cause more harm than clean. The damage to the minerals and salts that gravestones are comprised of are not immediate but become evident over time in the long run. The use of wire brushes, metal instruments and abrasive pads is also discouraged as they may scratch the face of the stone.
Before we undertake cleaning your gravestone we first determine the type of stone used and the best cleaning method to restore the gravestone to its former glory. The last thing you would want is for the inscription to be washed away or indecipherable. Promote the lifespan of your loved one’s gravestone by having it cleaned by a knowledgeable professional grave stone cleaning service in Chester from Birkenhead Monumental.