Most of us who have frequented cemeteries have encountered scenes similar to what appears in the photographs below. Flat grave markers with evidence of tire marks across them. Some flat markers might be sturdy enough to withstand the weight and pressure of heavy maintenance equipment and their tires running over them; while others are not and develop cracks and can be permanently damaged by repeated use of such equipment as mowers and grave digging equipment. However, no grave marker should bear evidence of tire marks across it -- its inscriptions, and epitaphs -- which is quite disrespectful to the deceased and disturbing to the families and friends who care about the gravesites and gravestones that mark them.
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If this type of damage and defacement is occurring on any of your family members' gravestones of course you should photograph the stone, document the damage, and submit your complaint to the owners/operators of the cemetery.
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As far as removing tire marks, a good way to start is by using a soft bristle brush and a lot of water for cleaning and rinsing off and Orvus Soap on most gravestones that are also deemed appropriate for such cleaning.
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D/2 Biological Solution is another tested and proven product that has been used successfully for cleaning most gravestones; primarily for biological growth, however.
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Also, I received a tip from Atlas Preservation to try using Bon Ami but only on unpolished granite though. A muddy and dusty granite marker may appear to be unpolished, however, that might not be the case. Always check and be sure first! Again, using only a soft bristle brush and adequate water and rinsing afterward.
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So be careful as you don't want to make a bad situation worse!
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As with any gravestone cleaning, stay within the guideline of "If in doubt DON'T."
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The flat markers below are from Section 3A in Calvary Cemetery in Lorain.
Sadly, the early 1900's cross topped markers may have originally stood upright as so many of this era once did. Over time they either were knocked over or fell down on their own and began sinking further into the ground giving the appearance that they were meant to be flat markers.
