How to Protect Your Granite Monument from Frost and Snow?
Winter Maintenance Guide 2025–2026

Winter is undoubtedly the most critical season for preserving memorial and commemorative monuments. Although granite is one of the densest and most durable materials in the world, the harsh climate of the 2025–2026 season — combining intense frost, snow, and persistent humidity — requires special care and attention.

At Guangdong Ruiwei Import & Export Co., Ltd, an international expert in quarrying and exporting high-quality granite, we understand that a monument is a tribute meant to last for centuries. Here are our expert tips to help you prepare and protect your stone from winter damage.

1. Preparatory Cleaning (Before the First Frost)

A clean monument is less likely to retain moisture. Moss and lichen act like sponges, holding water against the stone.

Clearing: Remove dead leaves and plant debris that can stain granite as they decompose.

Gentle washing: Use warm water and black soap or Marseille soap. Avoid acidic products (vinegar, lemon) and pure bleach — they damage the granite’s polished surface.

Brushing: Use a soft-bristle brush (never metal) for rough areas and a soft sponge for polished surfaces.

Drying: This step is essential. Wipe the monument with a dry cloth to prevent an immediate layer of ice from forming if temperatures drop.

2. Waterproofing and Sealing: The Protective Shield

For winter 2025–2026, applying a protective product is the best insurance against frost damage.

Water- and oil-repellent sealer: Apply a specific granite treatment (such as Lithofin or Belcare). It penetrates the stone to seal the pores while allowing it to “breathe.” Water will bead on the surface instead of seeping inside.

Stone wax: On engravings and decorative elements — often more fragile — a thin layer of wax provides extra protection against scratches and ice chipping.

Joint inspection: Check all sealant joints. If they are cracked or deteriorated, water will infiltrate under the monument. A simple repair with suitable mastic can prevent the monument from coming loose in spring.

3. Managing Snowfall and Accessories

Accessories are often the first victims of cold weather.

Vases and containers: Always empty water from vases. Water freezing inside granite or ceramic vases can cause them to crack or explode. Turn vases upside down when possible.

Snow removal: Never use metal shovels or scrapers. A soft snow brush (like those used for cars) is ideal.

De-icing salt: Never apply salt near granite. Salt corrodes the stone and causes stubborn white efflorescence.

Winter Maintenance Summary Table

Conclusion

A few minutes of maintenance before winter can add decades to the life of a monument. By cleaning, sealing, and managing water containers, you give your granite monument the best chance to withstand the winter of 2025–2026 without damage.

To explore our range of durable monuments and expert advice, visit our website:

www.granitmonuments.com