When it comes to choosing a headstone material, granite is one of your best bets. It’s a beautiful stone that will last for decades without showing any signs of wear or tear. That said, granite headstones do require a little bit of TLC to ensure they stay looking their best.
Cleaning the headstone and using polish designed for granite is the best way to ensure the stone looks its best and remains legible for decades to come. Continue reading to learn more about the importance of using a granite polish in Walterboro, SC and other steps you can take to care for a granite headstone.
What to look for in a granite polish
It’s important to note that all stone polishes aren’t created equal. What makes marble shine might actually tarnish the appearance of granite. For example, polishes or cleaners that contain too much acid, ammonia or bleach can strip the sealant off the granite and lead to devastating stains. Ensure you purchase a product like Laticrete StoneTech Polish that’s specifically designed for granite stone.
If you don’t want to purchase polish, you can make the best granite polish in Walterboro, SC in a matter of seconds. Mix three cups of warm water and 1/4 cup of baking soda together for a quick and easy granite polish that’s sure to keep the headstone looking great.
Other ways to care for granite
Using granite polish in Walterboro, SC is just one aspect of granite care. Here are other steps to take to ensure the headstone remains in like-new condition:
- Remove debris: Before doing anything else, remove any debris from the top or sides of the stone. You may need to use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrape off any stubborn moss or lichens.
- Wash: Next, you’ll need to wipe the headstone down using soapy water and a clean rag. Avoid using any ammonia, vinegar or acidic cleaners, as they’ll just eat away at the granite. After removing all of the grime with your soapy water, hose it down to get rid of all the excess suds.
- Clean inlays and engravings: If the marking has intricate inlays or engravings, your soapy rag might not get the job done. You may need to use Q-tips or a few cotton balls to clear out the nooks and crannies in the letters.
- Dry: Letting the granite headstone air-dry will likely lead to streaks, so you’ll want to dry it by hand immediately after you’ve rinsed it down. Use a microfiber cloth to dry the surface to avoid leaving behind any loose fibers.
- Buff: Before you’re done, use a soft towel to buff the entire headstone. This final step will help ensure there aren’t any streaks and will bring out the headstone’s shine.
Talk to Steedley Monument Works today
If you need to purchase a new memorial or you’d like to learn more about the best granite polish in Walterboro, SC, call our team at Steedley Monument Works. With over 50 years of industry experience, we’re the most trusted team in the area regarding all things related to burial monuments.