Clean Memorial Plaques
Bronze memorial plaques are a great way to honor a loved one, commemorate a life, and make a profound statement. However, like any other decorative art material, bronze plaques need to be properly cared for to maintain their beauty and integrity.
The first step in cleaning a memorial plaques is to remove any loose dirt or debris that might be lying on it. This will help prevent the plaque from becoming overly dingy and discolored.
After removing any dirt or debris from the plaque, spray it with a mild soap solution (like Ivory dish soap or Simple Green), then rinse it with clean water. Then, use a soft bristled brush to gently scrub the plaque. Once you’ve done this, wipe the plaque dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
How to Clean Memorial Plaques
If you don’t have a soft-bristled brush, you can also use a toothbrush to get in small crevices. You can even try using a scrubbing brush for tougher stains and caked-on substances. Once you’ve cleaned the plaque, you can apply a protective wax to it as well. This will give it a nice sheen and protect it from oxidation.
To apply a coat of wax to your plaque, you’ll need to open the can and get a small amount. Next, you’ll need a plastic paint edger that keeps the wax away from the stone surround of your plaque. Finally, you’ll want to use a brush to spread the wax thinly and evenly across the surface of your bronze plaque.
You can then let the plaque dry, and if it’s warm enough you’ll find this easier than putting the plaque in a dryer. After the plaque has dried, you can re-apply the wax as needed.
When cleaning a cemetery marker, you should avoid harsh chemicals or solvents. These types of cleaning materials can break down the protective coating applied to bronze plaques during production, exposing them to weather, chemicals and other elements that can damage their color and appearance.
Another consideration is that if the memorial marker has been made of a metal other than bronze, then the cleaners you’ll be using are likely to scratch it. This could cause permanent damage to the headstone or a nearby marker, so it’s best to use a safe, non-corrosive product when cleaning a headstone.
Some popular cleaners on the market are vinegar, salt solutions, and WD-40. These are all good for removing rust and corrosion, but they can also destroy the coating on your headstone or marker.
If you do choose to use a harsher, more abrasive cleaner, be sure to rinse the plaque with clean water afterward. You should also change the water frequently to avoid causing any further corrosion.
You should also use a sponge rather than a cloth when scrubbing your marker. A sponge is better because it allows the water to flow downward, not upwards, which might stain other areas you haven’t yet cleaned.
If you aren’t comfortable or confident cleaning your monument, you might consider calling a professional cleaner to come out and do the work for you. They can often do the job much faster and more effectively than you can, while also protecting the monument from harm.
No Comment