AFTERCARE
Caring for Your Paramount Bronze Memorial Plaque
Paramount Bronze plaques are exceptionally durable and require very little maintenance. With simple periodic cleaning and care, your Paramount Bronze plaque will retain its appearance and remain a lasting tribute for many years to come.
Understanding Bronze
Bronze is a copper-based alloy valued for its strength, longevity, and outstanding resistance to corrosion — qualities that make it the material of choice for Paramount Bronze memorial plaques. Over time, bronze naturally oxidises, forming a green or dark brown surface layer known as a patina. This is a natural process that protects the underlying metal and is not considered damage.
Some owners appreciate the aged appearance of a patina, while others prefer to maintain their Paramount Bronze plaque’s original finish through regular cleaning and waxing.
Routine Cleaning Guide
For general maintenance and removal of dirt, dust, and environmental deposits from your Paramount Bronze plaque, follow these six steps:
1
Rinse
Gently rinse the plaque with clean water to remove loose dirt and debris.
2
Wash
Using a soft microfibre cloth, clean the plaque with warm water and a mild detergent.
3
Clean Detailed Areas
If necessary, use a soft-bristled brush — such as a toothbrush — to carefully clean around lettering and decorative details on your Paramount Bronze plaque.
4
Rinse Again
Thoroughly rinse with clean water to remove all soap residue.
5
Dry
Dry the plaque completely using a soft, clean cloth. Avoid allowing water to air dry, as mineral deposits may leave spotting on the surface.
6
Wax (Optional)
Using a cotton pad or clean cloth, apply a high-quality microcrystalline wax or carnauba wax to deepen the colour and protect the finish of your Paramount Bronze plaque.
What Not to Use
To avoid damaging the finish or protective coating of your Paramount Bronze plaque, never use the following:
Wire brushes
Steel wool
Abrasive cleaning pads
Harsh chemical cleaners
Metal polishes on coated plaques
Pressure washers
Using abrasives or chemical cleaners on a Paramount Bronze plaque can permanently damage the patina, protective coating, and raised lettering. When in doubt, use only clean water and a soft cloth.
Protecting the Finish
If the protective coating on your Paramount Bronze plaque has weathered, follow these steps to restore and preserve its appearance:
Clean and dry the plaque thoroughly using the routine cleaning guide above.
Apply a very thin, even coat of microcrystalline wax or high-quality carnauba wax using a soft cloth.
Allow the wax to dry briefly.
Buff gently with a clean, soft cloth to achieve the desired finish. This protective layer repels moisture and slows the natural oxidation process.
Causes of Surface Deterioration
While the bronze of a Paramount Bronze plaque will remain structurally sound for many years, environmental factors can affect painted finishes, patinas, and protective coatings over time:
Ultraviolet (UV) exposure
Temperature extremes
Industrial fallout and airborne pollutants
Bird droppings and insect residue
Tree sap and organic matter
Salt exposure and mineral-rich water
Regular inspection and occasional cleaning will help maintain the appearance of your Paramount Bronze memorial plaque for decades.
Refurbishment Services
In cases where weathering, staining, or coating deterioration on your Paramount Bronze plaque cannot be corrected through routine maintenance, professional refurbishment may be recommended.
Paramount Bronze refurbishment services can restore your plaque’s original appearance through specialist cleaning, re-patination, repainting, and application of new protective coatings. Contact Paramount Bronze for further advice regarding refurbishment options.