Monument Headstone Cleaning and Adjustment

Why Monument Headstones Need to Be Cleaned

1. Preserve Legibility – Dirt, pollution, mold, moss, and lichen can obscure inscriptions, making names and dates difficult to read.

2. Prevent Deterioration – Biological growths and acid rain slowly erode stone surfaces. Regular cleaning slows this damage.

3. Maintain Dignity and Appearance – A clean, well-maintained monument honors the memory of the deceased and presents a respectful resting place for visitors.

4. Protect Historic Value – For older or historic monuments, cleaning helps preserve heritage and cultural significance.

5. Meet Cemetery Standards – Many cemeteries expect upright monuments to be kept in good condition and may have guidelines for care.
   
   

Why Monument Headstones Need to Be Adjusted

1. Ground Movement – Soil settling, frost heave, and root growth can cause upright monuments to lean or shift over time.

2. Safety – A leaning or unstable monument can become a serious hazard, especially large upright stones that might topple.

3. Aesthetic Alignment – Adjustments ensure monuments remain straight and consistent with surrounding stones for a neat, orderly appearance.

4. Structural Integrity – Monuments are often made of multiple pieces (base, die, cap). If these shift or separate, they must be reset to prevent cracking or collapse.

5. Drainage and Longevity – A properly leveled and reset monument prevents water pooling around the base, reducing erosion and extending the stone’s lifespan.

👉 Together, regular cleaning and professional adjustment ensure that upright monuments remain safe, legible, dignified, and preserved for future generations.

Cleaning Monument Headstones with D/2 Biological Solution

Stonecold Restorations uses D/2 Biological Cleaner, the same professional-grade product used by the Department of Veterans Affairs and the National Park Service for preserving historic stone.

Step 1: Inspection – Each monument is carefully assessed for staining, biological growth, cracks, or structural issues before cleaning begins.

Step 2: Application of D/2 – The non-toxic, biodegradable solution is sprayed or brushed onto the stone. D/2 is safe for granite, marble, sandstone, and other materials, and will not damage inscriptions or harm surrounding landscaping.

Step 3: Gentle Cleaning – After allowing the solution to dwell, Stonecold Restorations uses soft-bristle brushes and clean water to carefully remove dirt, algae, moss, lichen, and other contaminants. No harsh chemicals, high-pressure washing, or abrasive tools are used, ensuring the stone’s surface remains intact.

Step 4: Ongoing Whitening – D/2 continues working after application. With sunlight and rain, the monument naturally brightens over several weeks, restoring its original dignity and appearance.

Adjusting Monument Headstones to the Correct Grade

Upright monuments often lean, shift, or sink due to soil settling, frost movement, or root intrusion. Stonecold Restorations resets them to ensure safety, longevity, and appearance.

Step 1: Lifting and Disassembly – If necessary, the monument is carefully lifted or disassembled (base, die, cap) to prevent damage during resetting.

Step 2: Base Preparation – The foundation area is excavated and leveled. Gravel or a drainage base may be added to provide a stable, long-lasting foundation.

Step 3: Re-Leveling and Alignment – The base is reset at the proper grade, then the monument pieces are reassembled and aligned, ensuring the headstone stands straight and flush with surrounding markers.

Step 4: Final Securing and Inspection – The soil around the base is compacted, joints are checked for stability, and the monument is inspected to confirm it is safe, secure, and properly aligned.

✅ With D/2 cleaning and professional grade adjustment, Stonecold Restorations ensures monuments are preserved, safe, and dignified for generations.