CLEANING AND REPAIRING EXISTING MEMORIALS

We offer professional on-site cleaning and repair services to help restore the beauty and integrity of existing memorials.
Using specialized tools and safe cleaning methods, we remove dirt, biological growth, and weather staining
without damaging the stone.
Minor repairs—such as resetting and leveling—can also be completed on location to preserve the memorial for years to come.

Side-by-side comparison of a weathered memorial before cleaning and the restored stone after professional care

Before and after images of a cemetery marker, highlighting the dramatic improvement after cleaning

Before and after photo showing a granite headstone cleaned to remove dirt and biological growth

Side-by-side image displaying a memorial’s transformation from heavily weathered to clean and legible

Before and after photo of a memorial statue cleaned to remove grime and restore original color

Before and after comparison demonstrating how cleaning revived the details and lettering on a bronze cemetery marker

Headstone shown in its uncleaned state next to the same monument after a full professional cleaning

bronze cemetery marker shown before cleaning with discoloration, and after cleaning with restored clarity

At Tegeler Monument, we take pride in designing and crafting every monument right here in our Baltimore, MD shop.

This hands-on approach allows us to ensure exceptional craftsmanship and unwavering attention to detail in every piece we create.

Frequently Asked Questions: Monument Restoration

Why is it important to use a professional for cleaning?

Common household cleaners like bleach or high-pressure power washers can cause permanent damage to granite and marble. We use specialized, pH-neutral biological solutions (like D/2) that safely penetrate the stone to kill root systems of lichen and algae without causing erosion or discoloration.

How often should a headstone be cleaned?

For most monuments in the Maryland/DC climate, a professional cleaning every 3 to 5 years is sufficient. Regular maintenance prevents biological growth from etching into the surface, keeping the inscriptions legible for generations.

Can you straighten a headstone that is leaning or sinking?

Yes. Over time, ground settling can cause monuments to tilt. We provide leveling and resetting services, which involve carefully lifting the stone and reinforcing the foundation to ensure it remains upright and stable for years to come.

Can a cracked or broken headstone be repaired?

In many cases, yes. We use structural epoxies specifically designed for natural stone to bond fragments back together. While a repair line may still be visible, the structural integrity of the monument is restored, preventing further decay.

How long does the restoration process take?

On-site cleaning and minor repairs are typically completed within 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the cemetery’s schedule and weather conditions. The cleaning solution often continues to work over several months, gradually whitening the stone as biological growth dies off.