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The Association for Gravestone Studies - FAQ <br />Page 7 of 13 ' <br />6. "Fantastic' All Purpose Cleaner, "Formula 409," "Spic and Span" and <br />abrasive cleansers: These are not recommended for cleaning monuments. <br />Avoid products containing sodium chloride, sodium sulfate, sodium <br />carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, and ammonium carbonate, due to their <br />ability to form and deposit soluble salts in monuments. <br />III. MISCELLANEOUS MATERIALS OR TOOLS <br />A. The following items are recommended for use in cleaning procedures <br />for masonry: soft natural bristle (e.g., tampico) brushes, nylon brushes, <br />tooth brushes, Q -tips, sponges (especially natural sponges). Wood and <br />some plastic spatulas are also recommended. <br />B. Do not use metal brushes or scrapers, or abrasive pads (e.g., "Brillo," <br />"Scotchbrite") to clean monuments. <br />IV. SOME FINAL REMINDERS ABOUT BRAND NAME <br />CLEANING MATERIALS <br />A. Do not rely solely upon product labels or advertising. Brand name <br />materials that are readily available from hardware and grocery stores are <br />generally intended for household use. Information is not provided for <br />specialized applications outside of the home or workshop. <br />B. Remember to consult with a conservation consultant before cleaning. <br />The use of improper cleaning materials and practices can cause serious and <br />irreparable damage to gravestones. <br />Further detailed information is found in "A Graveyard Preservation <br />Primer" click here for order information <br />Top of pagc <br />Tools and Materials for Gravestone Cleaning Projects <br />by Fannin Lehner Preservation Consultants <br />STONE TYPES <br />s Marble and Limestone <br />o Water <br />o Non-ionic Detergent (Photo -Flo -Kodak product) <br />o Household Ammonia (Requires water hose for rinsing and <br />Hydrion Paper test strips for pH testing.) <br />o Calcium Hypochlorite (HTH) for biological growth <br />retardation. (Requires water hose for rinsing and Hydrion <br />Paper test strips for pH testing.) <br />Slate and Other Stone <br />o Water <br />o Non-ionic Detergent (Photo -Flo -Kodak product) <br />GENERAL CLEANING <br />http://www.gravestonestudies.org/faq.htm 3/12/04 <br />