The process of choosing a headstone goes beyond than just choosing what the engraving should be. You must consider a variety of factors when selecting the right headstone to be placed on your loved one's grave.
Six important things to consider when looking for a headstone.
Rules
Certain cemeteries have rules regarding the sizes, colors, and types of grave markers are allowed to be used.
One cemetery might only allow in-ground markers, which makes it easier to maintain the landscape. Headstones for graves near me might limit the size of stones, while other may prohibit additional items, such as vase of flowers that are put on headstones.
When you are looking for a headstone, make sure to carefully check with the cemetery for their rules. You can also get them in writing , so that you are able to take them with you so that you can pick a stone that will meet the requirements.
There's nothing more disappointing than paying for a cemetery headstone and later finding out that something about it is against the regulations.
Qualitative
You want a headstone to last for generations, so going for cut-rate materials or sub-par work won't give you the longevity you want.
Do your homework before you pick a monument company.
See how long they've been in business, whether they have endorsements or partnerships, and review their customer feedback. Ask your cemetery to recommend businesses that they've had positive experiences with.
Size
Do you need a huge headstone that has room for engraving photographs or bronze sculptures? Would you rather a smaller marker, which is more in line with the ground or even an engraved image or bronze sculpture?
The dimensions you choose for the headstone of the headstone will impact many aspects, including cost, material and any additional options.
Go to the cemetery plot if you aren't sure of the size you'd like to have. Are the stones of the same size and shape? If yes, then you might prefer to keep your stones around the same size dimensions to avoid being out of style.
Budget
A major concern for many people is the price the cost of a headstone is.
The bigger the stone you choose or the more intricate the design, the higher price you'll pay. If you're really on a budget an in-ground marker that is smaller with the name and dates written on it is your best choice.
The addition of photos bronze casting, photo engraving, or other features like candles are likely raise your prices significantly.
Make sure you know the monument company's policy on modifications or corrections to ensure that you don't end up with the cost of re-writing the headstone's inscription, which the company did not do initially.
Design
Do you prefer an elaborate design with religious symbolism or an epitaph? Is it enough to have the names of the deceased and the date of birth and death dates?
Once you know how much you're able to spend on headstones, it's time to begin thinking about the specifics. From bronze casting to engraving, statues to two-toned stones, there's numerous options for you to honor your loved one.
You'll have more options for design if you have a larger budget. But, having a smaller budget does not mean you cannot afford a beautiful headstones.
Work with your monument company to identify what features do and do not fit within your budget, and which things you can easily move out of the "needs" category to the "wants" category to free up more space.
Materials
There are many alternatives for monument materials, including granite, bronze, sandstone, slate, and marble.
Each material comes with their own pros and cons, in addition to providing its own distinct character to the finished product.
Bronze and granite, for instance, are robust and durable, as well as easy to clean. The most diverse color options are slate, granite, and sandstone.
Whatever type of material you choose to use be sure to collaborate with the monument firm to ensure that they help you find the right fit for your design vision, cemetery regulations and your budget. It will be an unforgettable memorial to the person you love dearly.