Common Types of Memorial Damage

Memorials are subjected to a variety of external factors that can cause wear and damage over time. The most common types of damage we encounter include:

Chips and Cracks: Small chips and cracks can occur due to natural weathering, falling debris, or accidental impact. Left untreated, these can worsen over time, leading to larger fractures that compromise the stone’s stability.

Statue Breakage: Delicate features on statues and carvings are particularly vulnerable to breakage. Whether it’s a missing hand, a broken cross, or a damaged feature, our team can meticulously restore or replace these pieces to match the original design.

Falling or Leaning Memorials: Soil settling and ground movement can cause a memorial to shift or lean. In severe cases, the monument may even topple over. Re-leveling and resetting the memorial is crucial to ensure safety and stability.

Structural Damage and Separation: Monuments composed of multiple pieces, such as bases and tablets, can become separated due to weathering, improper installation, or vandalism. This separation can lead to instability and potential damage to the entire structure.

Surface Erosion and Fading: Prolonged exposure to wind, rain, and sun can cause inscriptions and surface details to fade or erode, making it difficult to read names and dates.
‍

Step 1: Initial Assessment and Evaluation

The first step in our repair process is a thorough assessment of the memorial’s condition. This evaluation helps us identify the extent of the damage and determine the most appropriate repair methods. For convenience and accuracy, we recommend sending us high-quality photos of the damaged areas. These images allow us to make a preliminary evaluation and provide an initial estimate of repair costs and timelines.

In some cases, an in-person visit may be necessary to fully understand the scope of the damage, especially for more complex issues such as structural instability or significant cracking. During this step, we also review the cemetery’s guidelines to ensure that any repair work will comply with their regulations.

Step 2: Preparation for Repairs

Once the assessment is complete, we prepare the memorial for repair. Depending on the type and severity of the damage, preparation can include:

Surface Cleaning: We clean the damaged areas using gentle, memorial-safe solutions to remove dirt, moss, and debris. This step ensures that repair materials will adhere properly and that the stone’s true condition is visible.

Protective Measures: If other parts of the memorial are in good condition, we cover and protect these areas to prevent any incidental damage during the repair process.

Removing the Stone: In more serious cases, such as when a monument has significant structural damage or has shifted from its base, we may need to temporarily remove the stone from its foundation. This allows us to make precise repairs in a controlled environment and ensure the entire structure is stable before reinstallation.

Removing the stone is done with extreme care using professional lifting equipment and techniques to avoid causing additional damage. We document each step to ensure that the memorial is reinstalled exactly as it was originally positioned.

Step 3: Performing the Repair

With the monument properly prepared, we proceed to the actual repair work. Our team of skilled craftsmen uses advanced techniques and high-quality materials to restore the memorial with precision and care. Each repair is tailored to the specific needs of the stone, ensuring a seamless and lasting result.

Step 4: Final Inspection and Finishing Touches

After the repairs are complete, we conduct a thorough inspection of the monument to ensure that every detail meets our high standards. We check for stability, alignment, and aesthetic consistency, making any necessary adjustments to achieve a flawless finish.

Once we are satisfied with the results, we clean the entire memorial to remove any dust or residue from the repair process. For added protection, we can also apply a sealant or protective coating to help guard against future damage from weathering or biological growth.

Step 5: Reinstallation and Follow-Up

If the stone was removed for repair, our team carefully reinstalls it onto the foundation, using precise leveling tools to ensure it is correctly positioned. We double-check that all components are securely anchored and that the memorial is in compliance with cemetery guidelines.

Following reinstallation, we provide you with a full report of the repairs performed, along with maintenance tips to keep the memorial looking its best. We also encourage you to reach out to us with any concerns or questions after the repair process is complete.

‍

‍