Overview of the process
It is much easier and less expensive to preserve plaques or
memorials than restore them. Because of this, regular maintenance should
be part of the commitment to them. The following procedure is simple and
effective. It will keep bronze memorials that are still in good
condition looking that way and extend the life of those that have started to
deteriorate.
The maintenance process follows 6 simple steps:
1) Wash,
to remove the buildup of harmful substances from the surface.
2) Rinse, to remove the soap.
3) Dry, to remove all moisture,
which can harm the metal, if trapped under the wax.
4) Wax,
applying a thin layer of paste wax on the surface and brushing it to smooth it
out.
5) Buff, burnishes the wax to make it clear, hard and slick,
providing a defensive barrier on top of the clear-coat factory finish.
It also seals any scratches,
pits and scrapes.
6) Cleanup.
How often this maintenance treatment should be done depends on the weather,
environment (traffic exhaust, sea air, sprinklers, sunlight), location, etc.
Plaques and memorials should be inspected regularly, looking for signs that
the wax is loosing its luster. When it does, it is time to repeat the
treatment. We recommend it be done at least twice a year.
This is also a good time to inspect for damage, deterioration, corrosion or
other problems.