How to Take Care of a Bronze Marker

Bronze markers will last for many years if cleaned regularly.

Bronze grave markers are commonly used as a memorial and to mark the burial place of the deceased or his ashes. Over time, markers can deteriorate due to weather conditions, dirt, moss, mold and even bird excrement. Bronze is an alloy of copper and tin and is particularly susceptible to verdigris, a greenish patina that can build up on the surface of the marker. Regular cleaning of the marker will help it weather the elements through the years.

Things You'll Need

• One gallon plastic bucket
• One gallon tap water
• Eight ounce plastic container
• Eight ounces distilled water
• Spray bottle
• One tablespoon mild dishwashing detergent
• Can cleaning air
• Plastic vegetable cleaning brush
• Shoe shine wax applicator brush
• Shoe shine buffing brush
• Clear, non-powdering paste wax
• Three cotton towels
• One flannel towel

Instructions

1. Mix the dishwashing liquid and 8 ounces tap water in the small plastic container. Scrub the markers with the vegetable cleaning brush to remove as much foreign matter as possible.

2. Put the rest of the tap water into the large bucket and rinse the marker completely.

3. Place the distilled water into the spray bottle and rinse the marker one final time by spraying it evenly over the surface.

4. Dry the marker with the canned air by blowing off any water droplets. Canned air is generally used for cleaning computer keyboards and can be purchased at office supply stores.

5. Dry the marker again using the cotton towels.

6. Apply the wax to 5-five inch square areas of the marker with the applicator brush. Immediately brush off with the buffing brush. Repeat this process until you have gone over the entire marker.

   Do not apply all the wax at once to the entire marker and then try brushing off. The wax will partially dry and cause streaks. If this happens, start the waxing process over.

7. Wait a few minutes and buff the entire marker with the buffing brush. Finish buffing with the flannel towel.

   If possible, return the next day and buff again with the flannel towel. This will help preserve the shine.

Tips & Warnings

• You'll get best results if you clean the marker on a dry, airy day.

• Try to clean the marker at least once a month and buff in between cleanings to help preserve the marker.

References

• Walker Metalsmith: Preserving Bronze Plaques

Resources

• How to Clean Stuff: Bronze