Flat Headstone Cleaning and Adjustment

Why Flat Headstones Need to Be Cleaned

1. Preserve Readability – Dirt, mold, moss, lichen, and hard-water stains can obscure inscriptions, making it difficult to read names and dates.

2. Prevent Damage – Biological growths like lichen and moss release acids that slowly break down stone surfaces. Regular cleaning reduces long-term deterioration.

3. Maintain Appearance – Flat markers often collect soil, leaves, grass clippings, and bird droppings, which make them look neglected. Cleaning keeps the site respectful and dignified.

4. Honor and Respect – Families want their loved ones’ resting places to reflect care and remembrance. A clean headstone shows ongoing respect.

5. Compliance with Cemetery Standards – Many cemeteries expect markers to be kept in good condition, especially in veterans’ or historic cemeteries.
   
   

Why Flat Headstones Need to Be Adjusted

1. Ground Shifting – Over time, soil settles or erodes, causing flat headstones to sink, tilt, or become uneven. Adjustment restores level placement.

Cleaning Flat Headstones with D/2 Biological Solution

Stonecold Restorations uses D/2 Biological Cleaner, a trusted, non-toxic solution widely used by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Arlington National Cemetery, and historic preservation specialists nationwide.

Step 1: Inspection – Each headstone is inspected for biological growth, staining, or damage before cleaning begins.

Step 2: Application of D/2 – The biodegradable cleaner is applied to the stone’s surface. Unlike bleach or harsh chemicals, D/2 is safe for marble, granite, sandstone, and bronze, and it does not harm surrounding grass or plant life.

Step 3: Gentle Cleaning – After application, the solution is allowed to dwell. A soft-bristle brush and clean water are used to loosen and remove moss, lichen, mold, algae, and dirt. This process restores the stone’s natural appearance without damaging its surface.

Step 4: Natural Whitening – Even after the initial cleaning, D/2 continues working with exposure to sunlight and rain, further brightening the stone over time.

Adjusting Flat Headstones to the Correct Grade

Flat markers often shift or sink over the years due to soil erosion, settling, or water drainage issues. Stonecold Restorations re-sets markers so they remain level, safe, and properly aligned.

Step 1: Lifting the Stone – The headstone is carefully lifted from its current position to prevent cracking or edge damage.

Step 2: Ground Preparation – The area is excavated and leveled to the proper grade. Gravel or sand may be added to create a stable, well-drained foundation.

Step 3: Re-Leveling – The stone is reset at the correct height and angle, ensuring it sits flush with surrounding markers for uniformity and safe groundskeeping.

Step 4: Final Check – The headstone is checked for stability and alignment, and soil is compacted around the edges for a secure fit.

✅ The combination of D/2 cleaning and professional adjustment ensures that headstones are preserved, dignified, and compliant with cemetery standards for decades to come.