[?] How to clean a marble headstone in a cemetery.

[David Chapman]

Hi all,

I would like to clean up a marble headstone that has been exposed to the elements in a cemetery for the last 20 years.

Searching the 'web' has, so far, not turned up any sensible DIY options. Most of the comments that I have read so far are statements that marble headstones need to be removed and taken away for professional cleaning and then refitted, all at considerable cost.

I can understand the need for professional treatment when the headstone is VERY old and delicate, but surely there is a simpler DIY method suitable for cleaning one that is only 20 years old. One suggestion stated that 'Cif' was good for the job but, on the container it specifically states that it is not suitable for use on any marble surfaces.

Any constructive suggestions will be much appreciated.

ATB - Dave

David C.Chapman - ( [e-mail])

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[Huge]

I cleaned my great-great-great aunt's with Diet Sprite and a Kleenex so I could photograph the inscription.

(It was all I had to hand....)

[Rob Morley]

As Cif is particularly good at dissolving lime deposits, and marble is a form of limestone, it's probably not a good idea to use that.

[tonybo]

I googled "clean marble" and came up with this address, among others:

[Dave Plowman (News)]

I was told to use VIM and water on a marble fireplace. Basically, you need a fine water based abrasive.