How to Get Your Gravestone Repaired or Restored.
- Assess the headstone. First, take a close look at the current state of the headstone. If you haven’t visited in-person for a while or if there was a ...
- Avoid harmful materials.
- Take photos of the gravestone.
- Scrub the headstone gently.
- Apply epoxy for broken pieces.
Can a fractured tombstone be repaired?
Many techniques have historically been employed to join fractured tombstone together. Although the drilling and placement of bolts and metal repair plates is no longer advised, for many years this was considered a well done repair. We should be very careful to avoid disparaging repairs done at a different time.
How do you fix a broken headstone?
Apply epoxy for broken pieces If there are small chips or broken pieces, apply epoxy once the monument is dry. Make sure you’re using something that is formulated specifically for headstone restoration. When applying any epoxy, apply a continuous line down the center of the break.
Why do gravestones need to be repaired?
Age: The most common reason you might need to repair a gravestone is also the simplest—age. Over time, the materials in a headstone might break down or just face too much exposure from the elements. Corrosion: Some types of material, like metal, are prone to corrosion from the elements.
Why do headstones crack or break?
Allowing the headstone to lean or list can cause cracking or breaking, especially with older stones. Once the stone is removed, it can be laid flat on the ground nearby.
What kind of glue do you use on a gravestone?
EpoxyEpoxy.com Product #2005 was specifically designed for tombstone (monuments) and/or stone bonding, or repair. Epoxy.com Product #2005 is very strong yet it is has a "low modulus of elasticity: (semi-flexible).
Can you repair a granite headstone?
The good news is that products are available to put granite gravestones back together again. Lay a tarp on the ground, and try to assemble the broken pieces on it. Determine if you must glue the pieces back together or glue them together and surface fill them once they're reattached to the main part of the headstone.
What does it mean when a gravestone breaks?
A broken column indicates a life cut short, a memorial to the death of someone who died young or in the prime of life, before reaching old age. Some columns you encounter in the cemetery may be broken due to damage or vandalism, but many columns are intentionally carved in the broken form.
Can you replace an existing headstone?
Some historic headstones and markers, or those that are more than 50 years old, may also be eligible for a replacement.
How do you repair a chipped granite headstone?
0:499:35Fixing a chipped granite grave marker. - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo they just have a flat chisel. It's never worth repairing if you're going to lose an eye. So iMoreSo they just have a flat chisel. It's never worth repairing if you're going to lose an eye. So i like to keep our eyes protected we're just going to break the stone. Off use that as our as our guide.
What kind of epoxy do you use on granite countertops?
Superclear countertop epoxy is a high-quality product that can be used on virtually any surface and with numerous additives. Superclear countertop epoxy is a high-quality product that can be used on virtually any surface and with numerous additives.
What rocks are gravestones made out of?
Most gravestones made over the last few centuries are made of a few types of rock: marble, slate, and granite are the big three. Sometimes you run into darker stones made of gabbro, maybe a few sandstone markers, but especially in more recent monuments, marble and granite (and other plutonic rocks) rule the roost.
Who owns the headstone on a grave?
The person whose name is on the grant deed is the one who has the power to have a headstone installed. This is sometimes the designated next-of-kin. But it may also be the name of the person who has been named executor of the deceased's will.
How do you get a tombstone replaced?
How do you replace a headstone? Families are usually required to show a Deed of Grant to gain permission to bury ashes at an existing grave, this is also required when removing a headstone or altering it. If space has been left on a headstone there is a chance that additional names can be added to it without removal.
Can you install a headstone yourself?
After 24 to 48 hours of drying time, you can safely install your grave marker. Never attempt to install a tombstone on your own. We recommend that you seek help from two to three people.
How do you glue a granite headstone?
Prepare the Adhesive If you're working with a granite headstone, keep in mind that granite loses its porousness after being polished. Luckily, granite epoxy is much more effective than mastic glue. After that, start mixing the epoxy with a putty knife until it features a uniform appearance in color.
How do you restore a headstone lettering?
1:305:34Headstone Lettering Renovation - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAll right and then I ready to start it straight coming back using one of these window scrapersMoreAll right and then I ready to start it straight coming back using one of these window scrapers because this is glossy. Or. I don't know whatever you call it shiny.
Can stone be joined back together?
Provided to stone itself still has its structural integrity intact, the fragments can usually be joined back together and be conserved, (repaired). Although joining two or more broken elements is a seemingly basic task, it can quickly become complex. The type of stone to be conserved, and where it is broken both need to be assessed before a preservation effort may begin.
Can you join a fractured tombstone together?
Many techniques have historically been employed to join fractured tombstone together. Although the drilling and placement of bolts and metal repair plates is no longer advised, for many years this was considered a well done repair. We should be very careful to avoid disparaging repairs done at a different time. Any repair that has lasted is in some respects well done. They may not always look that great, but consider if a repair was not completed, the fragments may have been lost or destroyed.
Can vandalism damage gravestones?
The press loves to focus on the deplorable acts of vandalism, which from time to time, may damage a local cemetery or graveyard. Yet these occasional rampages are not the leading cause of broken gravestones.
Can epoxies be used on gravestones?
Modern epoxies have evolved in the recent past, which now allow gravestone conservation procedures previously impossible, to be accomplished. Mortars were traditionally employed to join broken stone fragments, but mortars tend to be too thick and cause mating surfaces to be enlarged.
What to do if a headstone is broken?
Breaks: If the headstone is broken into several pieces, you’ll want someone with experience to handle it. While you might be able to use epoxy for a small break, anything more severe takes more hands-on work. Resetting: If the headstone needs to be reset because it’s fallen over or shifted, it’s time to call in a pro.
Why do you need to repair a gravestone?
Over time, the materials in a headstone might break down or just face too much exposure from the elements. Corrosion: Some types of material, like metal, are prone to corrosion from the elements.
What is early stage restoration?
This is known as “early-stage” intervention. Early-stage restoration involves basic cleaning and restoration tools, and it can be done by just about anyone. Anything beyond this might require expert know-how. Professionals know how to clean a headstone with the proper tools and materials without risking more damage.
What does a gravestone represent?
After losing a loved one, their gravestone represents their life well-lived. Keeping this gravestone in top condition is one of the best ways to honor their memory, but this isn’t always easy or possible. Depending on the gravestone’s age and type of environment it’s in, some damage is sometimes unavoidable.
Why do people care for gravestones?
Caring for a Gravestone. In many cultures, caring for gravestones is an act of love and devotion. It’s a way to pay close attention to someone’s memory even after death. No matter whether you’re fixing a loved one’s gravestone or an ancient marker in a local cemetery, this is highly rewarding work.
How to apply epoxy to a broken wall?
When applying any epoxy, apply a continuous line down the center of the break. Stay away from the edges to create a clean look. Use a clamp to hold any broken pieces together while they dry.
When buying a headstone or grave marker, do you give thought to the long term care of the material?
When buying a headstone or grave marker, you likely give some thought to the long-term care of the material. Yet, no matter how much pre-planning you do, things happen.
How far does a tombstone re-break?
When a secondary break occurs, the stone always re-breaks about 2 mm (about 0.08 inch) above or below the epoxy joint. The epoxy attached to about 2 mm of the stone and holds well.
Why is the base of a tombstone buried in the ground?
This earth and stone tends to keep the temperature of the base more stable by insulating it and slowing the change in temperature.
What is it called when a stone gets hotter?
This is called "differential timing of the event".
Why are expansion joints cut into concrete?
When an object cools it contracts (gets smaller). For example 100 feet of concrete will be 1 inch longer once it is heated 100 degrees F. That is why expansion joints are cut into concrete. In the case of tombstones all the pieces of the same type of stone have very similar if not identical "coefficient of expansion".
Does epoxy shrink stone?
No I doubt it is epoxy shrinkage causing the problem. High quality epoxy has virtually no shrinkage.
How to fix a broken headstone?
Once the stone is dry, apply an epoxy that is specially formulated for headstone restoration. Next, apply a continuous line of epoxy down the center of the break, but stay away from the edges. Make sure that the epoxy is applied to all of the contact points on the headstone. After that, you are ready to clamp the two broken pieces together.
How to clean a gravestone before repairing it?
When cleaning a headstone, use a small brush and an approved biocide to kill and remove any moss, mold or anything else that tends to grow on the surface. Wait for the headstone to dry before taking the next steps.
Why are headstones brittle?
Due to age, corrosion, vandalism, or weathering, headstones can become brittle over time and susceptible to damage. Fortunately, you can correct many issues and prevent further damage with headstone restoration.
How to epoxy a headstone?
First, spread the pieces out on a flat surface. After that, put the pieces together so you can easily determine the easiest spot to epoxy.
How to clean a marble headstone?
Instead, use a little dishwashing detergent, water, and a couple of clean cloths to clean and dry the headstone. Bronze and marble memorials require water, non-ionic soap, and soft cloths for adequate cleaning.
What to look for when restoring a headstone?
Before you start the headstone restoration process, make sure to inspect the stone or material used to make the monument. Despite the durable materials like granite and marble in their makeup, headstones are still very fragile and need to be handled with care. One thing to look out for during this initial step is delamination.
Why is it difficult to keep a memorial marker?
While memorial markers are sturdy, they are not impervious. Due to age, corrosion, vandalism, or weathering, head stones can become brittle over time and susceptible to damage.
Cemetery Monument Repairs with Six10 Epoxy
I began searching for a way to repair the breaks and found WEST SYSTEM Six10 Thickened Epoxy Adhesive. Before trying it, I talked to Gougeon Technical Service and confirmed that it would be appropriate for cemetery monument repairs. After my first couple of repairs, I was satisfied.
Assembly and Instruction
When assembling the stone pieces, I lay them out and mark the points of contact. The next step is a good cleaning, including wire brushing to eliminate any loose or soft surface material. Next, I use acetone to clean all surfaces to be epoxied. When all is ready, I apply Six10 in a ring on one surface.
How to deepen a hole in a headstone?
Use a shovel to widen and deepen the hole for each headstone.
How to set a stone in a hole?
Using your pulley, carefully raise the stone and re-set it in the new hole being careful to use your guide strings to keep it in line with the other stones. Once the stone is placed, be sure to make sure it is set flat in the hole (the top of both sides are even) by placing a level across the top of the stone.
How to ensure headstones are set in line?
The easiest way to ensure your stones are re-set in line with one another is to create a system of guide strings running the length of the existing row . Each string can be attached to a metal stake at each end of the row to make sure your line will be straight. This string will guide the exact placement of all headstones in that row.
What is the first step in a cemetery preservation project?
If at any point you are concerned about damaging a headstone or other element of the cemetery, take a step back and consult a preservation professional. A small amount of caution now can save a lot of work down the line.
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Can a headstone be laid flat?
Allowing the headstone to lean or list can cause cracking or breaking, especially with older stones. Once the stone is removed, it can be laid flat on the ground nearby.
Can headstones fall out of the ground?
With weather conditions, shifting soil, and the simple passage of time, headstones can lean out of plumb or even topple over. HOPE Crew volunteers recently encountered this problem at Louisiana’s Chalmette National Cemetery, where they spent a month bringing the most troubled parts of the veterans' cemetery back to their original state.
