Cemetery Preservation

Cemetery Do's

1. Get Permission: Always obtain approval from cemetery officials before performing any work. If possible, also seek consent from the plot owner or family members

2. Document the Condition: Take clear photographs and maintain detailed records of the marker’s condition before and after any cleaning or stabilization efforts, noting any inscriptions or unique features.

2. Clean Gently: Use a soft natural bristle brush and non-ionic soap specifically designed for historic stone cleaning or simply use water. Always rinse thoroughly.

3. Stabilize Carefully: If a marker is leaning or unstable, provide temporary support using safe methods, like wooden wedges. For more significant stabilization, consult a professional conservator.

4. Protect from Biological Growth: Gently remove moss, lichen, or algae using a soft brush. If necessary, use a biocide formulated for stone, adhering to product instructions.

5. Make Appropriate Repairs: For necessary repairs, such as reattaching broken pieces, use materials specifically designed for stone repair, ensuring no damage is done to the marker.

6. Monitor Regularly: Periodically check markers for signs of deterioration, vandalism, or biological growth. Early detection helps prevent further damage.

7. Work with Professionals: Consult with experienced monument conservators for any significant cleaning, repairs, or stabilization. Their expertise ensures the work is done correctly and safely.

8. Respect the Context: Consider the larger historic landscape when making preservation efforts, preserving the overall integrity and appearance of the cemetery.

Cemetery Don'ts

1. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use bleach, household cleaners, acids, or abrasive substances, as they can cause permanent damage to the stone.

2. No Sandblasting or Pressure Washing: These methods can erode the surface, damaging inscriptions and other details on the stone.

3. Never Use Metal Tools: Avoid metal scrapers, wire brushes, or other tools that could scratch or damage the stone's surface.

4. Don't Apply Sealants or Coatings: These can trap moisture and salts within the stone, causing further deterioration over time.

5. Don't Attempt Major Repairs Without Expertise: Incorrect repairs can worsen the damage. Leave significant repairs to professionals with proper training.

6. Avoid Moving or Altering Markers Without Permission: Disturbing grave markers without authorization is often illegal and disrespectful.

7. Don't Plant Vegetation Near Markers: Roots can damage the stone over time and contribute to its deterioration.

8. Never Use Cement or Mortar for Repairs: These materials are not suitable for historic stone and can lead to further damage due to differences in how they expand and contract.

9. Avoid Applying Paint or Non-Reversible Treatments: These can obscure original inscriptions and damage the stone's surface.

To become qualified, you should complete hands-on training through workshops taught by experienced preservationists or conservators. Look for classes that follow NCPTT or VA guidelines, such as those offered by Cemetery Solutions or universities like the University of Mary Washington. Most individuals become preservationists, not conservators, and should never perform invasive work without proper credentials.

Start by learning safe methods for cleaning (soft brushes, non-ionic soaps, water) and only use biocides like Citra-Shield, Wet & Forget or D2 when absolutely necessary. Volunteering under trained professionals helps build experience. If offering services professionally, be sure to have proper insurance, documentation practices, and understand your ethical responsibilities.

Yes! Always get permission from the cemetery management and, when possible, the plot owner or family. Unauthorized work can be considered vandalism, even if well-intentioned.

Cleaning is the removal of dirt or growth using safe, gentle methods. Conservation involves advanced repair techniques and material stabilization, which should only be performed by trained conservators or qualified preservationists.

No! Bleach, vinegar, ammonia, and other household chemicals can permanently damage stone, especially marble and limestone. Only use non-ionic soaps or approved biocides when necessary.

Common materials include marble, granite, sandstone, and limestone. Learn to identify them by texture, grain, color, and age. If unsure, consult a preservationist before cleaning.

Biocides (like Citra-Shield, Wet & Forget, or D/2) are chemicals used to kill biological growth like algae and lichen. They are not cleaners and should only be used when milder cleaning methods fail.

Always start with the least invasive method: clean with water, a soft natural-bristle brush, and gentle scrubbing. Use a pump sprayer to rinse thoroughly and work from the bottom up to avoid streaking. For stubborn dirt, a non-ionic soap like Orvus Paste or unscented Ivory is acceptable.

Avoid harsh chemicals and tools like bleach, wire brushes, or pressure washers (except possibly low-pressure on granite under certain conditions). Biocides (like Citra-Shield or D-2) should only be used when biological growth can’t be removed with gentler methods. Always get permission and document the stone’s condition before and after cleaning.

Even with the information provided: if you have not been properly trained by a qualified conservator or preservationist, please do not attempt.

Only if you’ve had proper training. Resetting involves safety risks and the potential to damage the stone or its foundation. Attend a preservation workshop before attempting any repairs.

Using harsh chemicals, scrubbing too hard, cleaning when the stone is unstable, or skipping documentation. Always work gently, document before and after, and use approved tools and products.

In general, no. Power washers can erode soft stones. Some professionals use them on granite only, on low pressure, with extreme caution, but this is not recommended for beginners.

Essentials include a soft-bristle brush, plastic or wood scrapers, a pump sprayer with clean water, non-ionic soap, gloves, safety glasses, and documentation materials (camera, notebook).

Volunteer with local historical societies, cemetery associations, or nonprofits like Respect Our Cemeteries. You can also attend workshops or events hosted by organizations like The Necro Tourist and other credible conservators.