When bidding a final farewell to a departed loved one, finding a symbol that encapsulates their love, affection, and cherished memories is of utmost importance. Many individuals choose funeral plaques for this purpose, a poignant tribute that allows for the engraving of heartfelt messages or the inclusion of a cherished photograph.
A funerary plaque serves as a lasting testament, intended to stand proudly at the grave site for generations to come. Over time, however, it may succumb to degradation and accumulate dirt from various natural elements and microbes. To honor the memory of your loved one, regular maintenance and cleaning become essential. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the various steps involved in maintaining and cleaning a funeral plaque, particularly those made from stone.
Cleaning for Stone Grave Markers
Stone remains one of the most popular materials used for crafting funeral plaques due to its impressive durability and ease of maintenance. Cleaning a stone funeral plaque involves a two-step process:
Step 1: Cleaning the Surface
To preserve the pristine appearance of the stone plaque, this crucial step comprises three parts:
Gentle Cleaning with Soapy Water: Begin by moistening a soft sponge with soapy water. Carefully and gently clean the funeral plaque, avoiding abrupt motions that may cause cracks or unsightly marks. Refrain from using chemical cleaners like bleach, as they can lead to degradation and discoloration of the ornamentation.
Rinsing with Plain Water: After cleaning with soapy water, rinse the stone plaque with a small amount of plain water. A bucket or basin with a soaked cloth or sponge will suffice for this task.
Drying with a Soft Cloth: Thoroughly dry the plaque using a clean, pebble-free cloth. Ensure that the water is entirely wiped away from all parts of the plate.
Before commencing the cleaning process, remove any dust and cobwebs from the plaque. Once completed, consider applying a water-repellent solution to enhance the plaque’s aesthetics.
Step 2: Cleaning the Ornamental Elements
Funerary plaques often feature ornamental elements that require special attention for optimal maintenance:
Engravings: Utilize a toothbrush to clean engravings thoroughly. Apply black soap to the brush and carefully scrub the plaque until its shine is restored. Rinse the plaque with water and dry it with a damp linen cloth.
Metal Ornaments: For metal plaques, use a mixture of baking soda and water (one-third baking soda, two-thirds water) to clean them. Remember to wear gloves for this operation, and apply varnish on the metal afterward to reduce oxidation effects.
Copper Ornaments: Easily washable, copper ornaments can be cleaned with baking soda, similar to metal plaques. After scrubbing, rinse and dry the plate with an immaculate cloth.
Cleaning Plaques Made from Other Materials
Various materials, such as marble, resin, Plexiglas, porcelain, and others, are used for crafting funeral plaques. Luckily, cleaning each plaque is relatively straightforward, requiring minimal effort. Soapy water and a sponge are usually sufficient for the cleaning process. Additionally, baking soda and linseed oil may be used for specific materials, much like in the case of stone plaques.
For granite slabs, a soft, clean cloth or dishcloth should be employed to wipe off dust from the surface. If stains are present, baking soda can be used. Porcelain or glass plates, resin funeral plaques, and other materials can be similarly cleaned with the gentle application of soapy water.
Maintaining the Legacy: Regular Maintenance
To avoid difficulties with future cleanings, regular maintenance of the plaque is crucial. We recommend cleaning the plaque every three months, ensuring the surface and ornaments are carefully attended to. Employ linseed oil regularly to enhance and maintain the plaque’s shine, ultimately upholding the lasting legacy of your beloved.
With the commitment to regular maintenance and the tender care bestowed upon the funeral plaque, the memory of your loved one will forever shine brightly, etched in the hearts of generations to come.