Headstone Restoration
Each cleaning involves a careful assessment before proceeding. Some stones are too delicate to safely clean. If at any time during the process the stone is discovered to be too delicate, no further action is takem. No abrasives or harsh chemicals are used to clean monuments.
Repairs involve using epoxy, sometimes over several visits depending on the severity of the repairs. I do not use any kind of pin for repairs. Even pins that will not corrode are prone to expanding and contracting at a different rate than the stone. This will lead to further cracks developing along the outside of the stone closest to the pinhole. If a stone is too damaged or deteriorated to epoxy back in place, I lay it horizontal on the ground on top of a new stone slab. This preserves the stone much longer than leaving it lay and sink into the soil.
In older stones repainting of letters is not recommended as results will not be ideal.
I offer leveling, cleaning, and repair services in cemeteries across northern Nova Scotia. I'm willing to travel farther depending on the scope of work.
Prices depend on the condition of the stones, travel time to the cemetery, etc. Price quotes require an on-site visit to the cemetery.
Not sure where to begin? I offer on-site consulting as well. If you decide to hire me for the work, I will waive the consultation fee.
Repairs involve using epoxy, sometimes over several visits depending on the severity of the repairs. I do not use any kind of pin for repairs. Even pins that will not corrode are prone to expanding and contracting at a different rate than the stone. This will lead to further cracks developing along the outside of the stone closest to the pinhole. If a stone is too damaged or deteriorated to epoxy back in place, I lay it horizontal on the ground on top of a new stone slab. This preserves the stone much longer than leaving it lay and sink into the soil.
In older stones repainting of letters is not recommended as results will not be ideal.
I offer leveling, cleaning, and repair services in cemeteries across northern Nova Scotia. I'm willing to travel farther depending on the scope of work.
Prices depend on the condition of the stones, travel time to the cemetery, etc. Price quotes require an on-site visit to the cemetery.
Not sure where to begin? I offer on-site consulting as well. If you decide to hire me for the work, I will waive the consultation fee.
Basic Do's and Don'ts for stone care
Do’s
Don’ts
Repairs or replacement costs due to improper work will be the responsibility of the purchaser.
Do’s
- Do consult a professional prior to attempting to clean any stone.
- Do make sure that you aren't voiding any agreements by performing work on the stone. Any work performed may void guarantees, perpetual care agreements, etc.
- Do use fresh water for cleaning your stone.
- Do use a brush with natural bristles or white plastic bristles, like a tooth brush to clean your stone.
- Place your stone in a sunny location if you can. Overhead branches, falling leaves and grass clippings will all acclerate lichen growth.
Don’ts
- Don't perform any kind of work on a stone that isn't yours or a deceased relatives without proper permission. Many cemeteries have boards that approve all work performed in cemeteries.
- Don’t use a pressure washer on any part of your monument, regardless of the type of stone. Etching may occur.
- Don’t use bleach, ammonia, vinegar or any general purpose cleanser on sandstone, or limestone. Doing so may discolor, etch, or pit the stone. Some cleaners aren’t ok for stones, others are ok for some types of stones but not others. As always ask a professional if in doubt
- Do not use any abrasive wheels or metal brushes to clean your stone.
- Don’t use any kind of sealer on your stone. Sandstone and limestone are porous. Any water that enters the stone will also leave it. If it cannot come out easily it will make a way, resulting in cracking and accelerated deterioration.
- Don’t try to remove any algae on your own. Improper removal will result in accelerated growth and the problem will re-occur quickly.
- Don’t try to re-level any installed stone or monument that is attached to a base. Doing so may result in personal injury or damage to the stone. Even stones not attached to bases may break while You may attempt to move garden stones or small address stones at your own risk. Wear steel-toed boots and gloves before attempting to move it.
Repairs or replacement costs due to improper work will be the responsibility of the purchaser.