Step 6: Cleanup

Most outdoor plaques and memorials are situated on stone, brick,  concrete (such as the example used in this book), or a similar substance where exposure to water is expected.   Because of that, washing with soap that is mild and biodegradable should not be a problem either for the materials or surrounding areas.  Nevertheless, it is a good idea to use some of the rinse water to wash away the soap suds.

Paste wax is invisible when it dries.  If you happen to brush it on the area surrounding the plaque or memorial, it may make it glossy.  If this is undesirable, a solvent, such as lacquer thinner, will remove it.

Laundry detergent will clean the wax from the brushes and cloths if they are washed before they have a chance to dry out very much.