Caring for a Monument: Maintenance Tips & What to Avoid

A memorial is meant to last for generations, standing as a beautiful tribute to a loved one’s life. While granite and bronze are extremely durable materials, regular care helps preserve their appearance and prevents long-term damage. Many families want to maintain their memorials but aren’t always sure what’s safe to use—or what might cause harm. With a few simple steps and the right tools, you can keep your loved one’s monument looking its best for years to come.

Start with Gentle, Safe Cleaning Methods

The safest way to clean a granite memorial is often the simplest. Begin by using clean water and a soft, non-abrasive cloth or brush. Gently remove dirt, pollen, or natural build-up that accumulates over time. If the memorial needs a deeper clean, use mild, non-ionic soap diluted in water.

Avoid anything rough or abrasive, such as wire brushes or scouring pads. These can scratch the surface, dull the polish, and create grooves where dirt collects. A soft-bristle brush is all you need for routine care.

Rinse Thoroughly to Prevent Residue

After washing, rinse the stone thoroughly with clean water. Soap residue left behind can create streaks or attract more dirt over time. A gentle pour or splash of water is enough—no pressure washer is needed (or recommended). Granite is strong, but high-pressure water can damage delicate engravings or loosen joint compounds around the base.

Avoid Harsh Cleaners and Chemical Treatments

One of the most common mistakes people make when cleaning a memorial is using household cleaners or chemicals. Many products that are safe for home use are unsafe for stone, including:

• Bleach

• Vinegar

• Ammonia

• Household degreasers

• Pressure washing detergents

• Granite sealers

These substances can cause discoloration, weaken the stone’s surface, or create permanent staining. Granite used in monuments does not need to be sealed—the stone is naturally durable and designed to withstand weather without chemical protection.

Watch for Seasonal Build-Up

Minnesota’s climate can lead to seasonal issues such as mildew, moss, and lichen. These often appear in shaded or damp areas during spring and fall. While they may look concerning, they can typically be cleaned safely with water and gentle brushing.

If growth becomes extensive, reach out to a professional monument company for guidance. They can help you determine the safest way to clean it without damaging the stone.

Check the Monument's Foundation and Setting

Over time, soil conditions and weather can affect how a monument sits. Frost heaving, heavy rains, and ground settling may cause a stone to tilt slightly or shift. This isn’t uncommon—but it’s something to monitor.

If you notice uneven settling or movement:

• Do not try to adjust the monument yourself

• Contact your local monument provider for assistance

Professionals have the tools and knowledge to reset and level stones safely.

Bronze Memorial Care

Bronze markers naturally develop a patina over time, which is normal and part of the material’s aging process. While gentle cleaning can remove dirt, it won’t restore the original factory finish—nor should it. Abrasive attempts to “shine” the bronze often cause more harm.

If a bronze memorial needs refinishing, professional restoration is the safest option.

Professional Help When You Need It

While most routine cleaning can be done by families, more complex care—such as resetting, refinishing, or restoring intricate details—is best handled by a professional.

Owatonna Granite & Monument is always available to offer guidance, provide safe cleaning services, or assist with maintenance questions. Whether your loved one’s memorial is new or decades old, we’re here to ensure it remains a beautiful, lasting tribute.