War Memorial Cleaning & Restoration

Across towns and villages in the UK, war memorials stand as proud symbols of sacrifice, honouring those who gave their lives in service to our country. These cherished landmarks are more than stone—they are the emotional and historical anchors of local communities.

However, over time, exposure to the elements causes dirt, biological growth such as moss and lichen, and pollution to dull and damage these memorials. For local councils, maintaining these monuments is not just an act of preservation—it’s a duty of respect.

Why Clean War Memorials?

• Heritage Protection: Many memorials are listed monuments, meaning they carry both cultural and legal significance. Regular, gentle cleaning helps retain their character without damaging their integrity.

• Civic Pride: A clean, well-maintained war memorial reflects positively on the local area and the council responsible for its upkeep.

• Event Readiness: Ensuring the memorial is clean ahead of events like Remembrance Sunday or local commemorations guarantees it remains a fitting tribute.

• Preventing Damage: Moss and algae can retain moisture, leading to long-term degradation of stone and inscriptions if left unchecked.

Our Approach to War Memorial Cleaning

At Grave Clean, we understand the sensitivity and significance of war memorials. That’s why we follow a strict non-invasive cleaning process:

• ✅ No power tools or high-pressure systems

• ✅ Use of pH-neutral, biodegradable solutions

• ✅ Soft-bristle brushes and manual cleaning techniques

• ✅ Respect for delicate materials and leaded lettering

This method is compliant with guidance from the National Association of Memorial Masons (NAMM) and Historic England, ensuring your council’s responsibilities are met without risk to the memorial.

Working with Local Councils

We partner with local authorities across the country to offer reliable, insured and council-compliant cleaning services. Whether you’re planning for a remembrance event, maintaining listed sites, or developing a conservation policy, we can help.

We also handle permit paperwork, provide before and after photographs, and can offer care plans to keep memorials looking their best year-round.

Let’s Work Together

If you’re part of a local council and are looking to restore or maintain a war memorial in your area, get in touch today. Our experienced technicians are ready to help you preserve your local history with care and respect.

📩 Contact us today or visit www.graveclean.co.uk to learn more about how we support local councils in preserving our nation’s legacy.