There are many ways to commemorate the life and legacy of a loved one for eternity, from headstones and plaques to urns and even statuary. Many people are choosing to memorialize someone special with memorial plaques, but determining the right material to use is another problem entirely.
Many monuments and memorials are made of limestone, marble and granite, but bronze stands out as the best option for several reasons.
Here’s why bronze memorial plaques can be a great option for a memorial, whether you’re preplanning your own or commemorating a departed loved one.
Timeless beauty
Choosing bronze for a memorial is a smart choice due in large part to its universal, timeless appeal. Cultures across the globe have been using bronze in the creation of memorials for centuries. Bronze as a material offers a level of quality you can see with your own eyes, and its beauty won’t fade over time. Overall, bronze memorials from plaques to statues retain a sophisticated and elegant look no matter the extent of their exposure to the elements.
Durability
Memorials are made to last, but some of the most commonly used materials simply aren’t as durable as bronze. Bronze is a metal alloy containing copper, tin and other mixed metals. Due to their high copper content, bronze memorials feature a protective layer that prevents corrosion and other forms of wear from environmental conditions. When you choose a bronze memorial for yourself or a loved one, you’ll have peace of mind that it will retain its shape and beauty for all time.
Easy maintenance
Memorials are typically exposed to the elements at all times. Even hardy materials like granite and marble can suffer from this exposure. In some cases, monuments can be rendered illegible due to the effects of precipitation. Bronze, on the other hand, requires very little maintenance to retain its structural integrity and appearance. Only a simple, periodic cleaning is recommended to preserve the natural shine of bronze. Just take a soft cloth, non-ionic soap and distilled water and, using a light touch, bring back the original, shiny appearance of the bronze.
Flexibility
Many people choose to use bronze for memorial plaques simply because of the flexibility it affords in terms of customization. Whether you want to add a removable plate or scroll to a headstone or you need the ability to update details of a surviving spouse or child, you can easily adjust inscriptions when you choose bronze.
In addition, you have a lot more freedom to choose a design that suits your taste and wishes. The casting process of bronze allows you to add intricate details and even fine artwork to the plaque, giving you the option to add a personal touch to the memorial.
Bronze memorial plaques offer a beautiful, durable and timeless way to memorialize the life of a loved one. Get in touch with Steedley Monument Works today to learn more about designing a memorial that helps you commemorate a loved one in the way you see fit.