Tips for Maintaining Your Space in an Ottawa Columbarium

August 15, 2025

Taking care of a loved one's resting place is a quiet act of remembrance that can mean a lot over time. When someone’s remains are placed in a columbarium, many families want to keep the space tidy, respectful, and reflective of the life lived. Regular upkeep helps preserve more than just appearance. It helps keep the connection alive. Whether it's stopping by to gently clean surfaces or placing a thoughtful item near the niche, the small details add up.

In Ottawa, outdoor elements like rain in the spring and frost in the fall can affect how you care for a space in a columbarium. But thoughtful planning and a light maintenance routine can make a big difference. It’s not about doing everything at once. It’s about taking steady, simple steps. From keeping the area presentable to adding personal touches respectfully, here are a few ways families can look after a space in a columbarium in Ottawa without making it feel like a chore.

Keeping the Columbarium Clean

A clean space says a lot. It shows others that someone is cared for and remembered. While columbariums are looked after by the cemetery, the niche itself is usually left to the family for personal care. That means simple cleaning, like wiping off dust, removing leaves, or clearing away leftover flowers, is often part of regular visits.

Here are a few tips to help keep the space tidy:

1. Use a soft cloth or sponge with plain water or a mild, non-abrasive soap.

2. Stay away from harsh cleaners like bleach or anything acidic that could damage the stone.

3. Don’t use sharp tools or abrasive pads. These could scratch the plaque.

4. Bring a small handheld broom or brush to sweep away dirt or debris.

5. If it's been rainy or damp, gently wipe dry areas that might hold moisture and lead to staining.

Ottawa has a real mix of weather. Summer tends to bring dry heat, but there's still the occasional downpour. In the height of the season, dirt and pollen can settle on plaques. A quick wipe every few weeks can help prevent staining or buildup. Come early fall, watch for falling leaves or early frost that might stick to the front or edges of the niche. Just brushing those off gently does the trick.

If you’re visiting during a long dry stretch or after a storm, it’s a good time to check on the surrounding area. Sometimes birds or insects might disturb the space briefly, and addressing those signs early makes upkeep easier.

Personalizing the Space

Adding a personal touch is one way many families make a niche feel less like a wall and more like a tribute. Since a columbarium space is shared with other families, the gesture should be meaningful yet respectful. Personal items should usually be subtle, sturdy, and suited to outdoor conditions.

Here are a few ideas to keep things simple but thoughtful:

1. Use weatherproof photo frames with a picture that meant something to your loved one.

2. Display a small metal or acrylic plaque with a favourite quote or saying.

3. Attach a tiny seasonal decoration that won’t blow away or interfere with other spaces.

4. Place a permanent flower holder with artificial blooms that match the season.

Always check the cemetery’s rules before placing something new. Some allow small arrangements or secured items only, while others may clear items after a certain time. Choosing decorations that stay in place and won’t break down in sun or rain will save time and hassle later on.

If you’re feeling unsure, think about one thing your loved one enjoyed. For example, someone who loved gardening might be honoured with a delicate sprig of greenery or a small butterfly pin. As long as the sentiment comes through and the space stays tidy, these little tokens tend to carry the most meaning.

Regular Check-Ups and Maintenance

Checking in on your loved one’s niche from time to time goes beyond cleaning and decorating. It helps catch small issues early before they become bigger problems. Summer weather in Ottawa tends to be warmer and drier, and it’s a good stretch to do a mini-inspection during each visit.

Start by taking a quick look at these areas:

1. The nameplate: Make sure it’s still secure and free of cracks or fading.

2. The seal or door: Look for any gaps, wear, or uneven fit.

3. Surrounding stone or surface: Watch for stains, chips, or signs of weather damage.

4. Any placed objects: Confirm they remain undisturbed and haven’t caused marks or residue.

If you notice something unusual, like loose parts or signs of pressure on the structure, don’t try to fix it yourself. It’s always better to speak to the staff in charge, as they’ll know how to handle it carefully.

Even if everything seems fine, regular visits show that someone’s watching over the space. It also lets you spot small signs of wear from the sun, rain, or Ottawa’s temperature changes. That quiet habit of noticing and caring brings added peace of mind.

Managing Flowers and Plants

Fresh flowers can brighten up a niche and add warmth, but it’s important to pick the right kind, especially if they’re staying outside for more than a day. Some flowers handle Ottawa’s weather well, while others wilt fast in the heat or wind.

If you're thinking of including plants in your visits, keep these tips in mind:

1. Choose low-maintenance, hearty varieties like marigolds, chrysanthemums, or pansies, depending on the season.

2. Pick UV-resistant artificial flowers that won’t fade quickly in the sun.

3. Use a stable, shallow vase or holder that doesn’t tip or leave marks behind.

4. Avoid fresh arrangements without water sources during high heat, as they can dry and crumble fast.

5. Remove wilted or expired arrangements during your next visit, especially after strong storms or sharp temperature swings.

August is a great time to place hardy flowers that bloom towards late summer. But since fall changes can come quickly in Ottawa, keep an eye on falling leaves, cooler afternoons, or extra rainfall that might affect the plants you leave behind.

If planting is allowed near the columbarium, it’s best to ask about exact guidelines. Some may permit small flower beds or terracotta planters with seasonal greenery. Picking plants that won’t spread too far or require watering every few days helps keep things practical.

How Highland Park Cemetery Can Help

Looking after a space in a columbarium isn’t about doing everything perfectly. It’s about showing effort, compassion, and consistency. Each visit adds another layer of connection, even if it's just a light dusting or a quick check-in. The routine turns into something more than upkeep. It becomes part of how memory continues.

Highland Park Cemetery offers support for families who care for their loved ones’ niches. From seasonal upkeep services to help with inspecting plaques or managing plant options, our team is always ready to lend a hand. If you spot something that needs attention or want to arrange scheduled cleaning, our staff can guide you through next steps.

Whether you're caring for a niche alone or sharing duties with your family, a little help goes a long way. Having a plan that involves occasional support makes the experience smoother. With guidance from cemetery staff, even small acts of care can be part of a larger tradition that honours your loved ones year-round.

Let us help make sure your tribute stands the test of time. When handled with care and attention, a columbarium space in Ottawa can remain peaceful and welcoming throughout the seasons, each visit adding to the story it holds.

Whether you’re new to maintaining a columbarium space or already have a routine in place, knowing where to seek guidance can help make the process feel more manageable. Highland Park Cemetery understands how meaningful these spaces are to families. If you’d like to learn more about caring for a columbarium in Ottawa, our pre-planning options can help you feel more prepared and supported along the way.