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The Association for Gravestone Studies - FAQ <br />Page 5 of 13 ' <br />Review and Evaluation of Selected Brand Name IN'laterials <br />for Cleaning Gravestones <br />by Tracy C. Walther- Architectural Conservator <br />I. INTRODUCTION -- Some important general guidelines to <br />remember when considering cleaning burial monuments: <br />A. Evaluate the general condition of the burial monument. Do not attempt <br />to clean the monument if it exhibits any cracks, flaking and scaling, or <br />eroding granular surfaces. Carefully sound (gently tap surface with finger) <br />stone to determine if there are any underlying hollow areas. If hollow areas <br />are detected, do not continue with cleaning or handling. <br />B. Determine the type of soiling to remove it in the most effective manner. <br />Types of soiling could be: <br />• Carbonaceous or sooty soiling <br />• Urban grime; dirt <br />• Organic --algae, fungi, lichens, mosses <br />• Stains --metallic, oils, etc. <br />• Efflorescence (salts) <br />C. Initiate cleaning process with the least aggressive method --gentle, clean <br />water rinsing. If washing with water alone is not sufficient, carefully <br />proceed with the use of a selected material to facilitate cleaning. Select the <br />gentlest possible method that will achieve a desirable or acceptable level <br />of cleanliness. <br />D. Always test selected cleaning method(s) before general application. <br />Test entire cleaning procedure in a small inconspicuous area on the <br />monument. <br />E. Pre -wet monument with water before the application of any chemical <br />cleaning solutions. Pre -wetting prevents excessive penetration of cleaning <br />solutions and soiling into the stone, and facilitates softening of soiling. <br />F. Clean from the bottom to the top of the monument to avoid streak <br />staining on the stone. Periodically rinse runoff. <br />G. Always rinse thoroughly with water. Residues from chemical cleaning <br />solutions can create a blotchy appearance, provide mediums for bacterial <br />action, and cause staining. Do not allow cleaning solutions to dry on a <br />monument. <br />H. Do not assume that a cleaning procedure that is effective in one specific <br />case is therefore applicable for all cleaning situations. professional. <br />I. Consult with a conservation <br />II. Review and Evaluation of Selected Brand Name Materials <br />for Cleaning Gravestones <br />A. Soaps and detergents <br />Soaps (e.g., "Ivory"): commercial household detergents <br />http://www.gravestonestudies.org/faq.htm 3/12/04 <br />