A headstone is an important part of remembering a loved one.Selecting a headstone will be easier if you understand the cemetery regulations, set a budget, choose appropriate materials, and find a reliable supplier.
Step 1: There are limitations on the size of head stones in the cemetery.
Rules and regulations for the size and type of headstones can be found in each cemetery.Some cemeteries accept large headstones, but others have strict rules that limit their size.Call the cemetery and ask if there are limitations on the size of headstones.
Step 2: There are regulations on headstone type.
The type of headstone you can put up is monitored by many cemeteries.Bronze or granite headstones are only allowed in some cemeteries.Ask the cemetery if there are any restrictions on the type of headstone or construction materials.
Step 3: Do you need to hire someone to install the headstone?
Some cemeteries offer installation services, while others require you to hire a local monument installer.If this is a service the cemetery offers, be sure to inquire about installation costs.The yellow pages or internet can be used to locate a local monuments installer if the cemetery doesn't offer installation services.
Step 4: Know your rights.
Installation of the monument and other add-on services are charged by many cemeteries.Some may try to tell you that they are the only ones who can install a headstone in the cemetery, but this may be a way to discourage customers from using an outside source and thus increase internal revenue.Ask the cemetery to show you their by-laws if they tell you that gravestones from outside sources are not allowed.
Step 5: You should be familiar with the designs and materials.
You can get an idea of the shapes, sizes, materials, and designs that are available by walking through several cemeteries.This can be used to develop a rough idea of what you want.You can show the photos to the cemetery, funeral home, or monument dealer.
Step 6: Set a budget.
Installation of a headstone can be expensive.Knowing what your budget is before you visit a monument dealer, funeral home, or cemetery can cut back on unneeded stress and help you make a decision you feel good about.Did your loved one set aside money for funeral expenses?Determine what part of the fund can be used to purchase a headstone.
Step 7: You can choose a supplier.
Headstones can be purchased from a number of sources.Make sure the supplier has headstones that meet your guidelines by taking time to explore your options.Monument dealers and funeral homes have the highest prices.Internet dealers can be budget friendly.You can get referrals for headstone suppliers by talking to friends and family.Ask about the company's integrity.Carefully read all customer reviews if you are shopping on the internet for a headstone.
Step 8: Decide what type of gravestone you want.
Headstones can be upright, flat, and kerbed.An upright headstone is usually made from granite, marble, or limestone.A flat headstone can be made of granite or bronze.If you want a more personalized expression in a headstone, try a kerbed one.
Step 9: You can choose a material for the headstone.
The material used in the creation of a headstone affects its longevity.It contributes to the overall look of the headstone.Granite is generally on the lower end of the price scale and comes in many colors.If you are concerned about weathering over time, avoid limestone.
Step 10: You can choose a headstone finish.
Over time, the finish you choose for the headstone will affect its appearance.Some cemeteries don't allow polished headstones because of their reflectiveness, but other cemeteries do.It is possible to give depth to a tombstone with three or more colors.If you want a rustic look, go for a pitched finish.Older cemeteries have headstones with pitched finished that were created with a hammer and bolster.
Step 11: Choose an epitaph.
A quote from religious text and details about a person's life are some of the things that can be said in an epitaph.Some might detail the circumstances of a loved one's death, while others celebrate their life with words from their favorite author.When choosing an epitaph, consider your loved one's personality, life achievements, and style.Consider the size of the monument when choosing an epitaph.A small headstone might not fit the entire religious verse you want to include.
Step 12: If you want the inscriptions to be in a fonts, choose one.
Your loved one's name, birthdate, and date of death are important factors in the design of a headstone.Roman or Old English can be used for a traditional look.The italics should be reserved for quotes, religious text, and poetry.
Step 13: You can choose images for the headstone.
Some families will choose a headstone with strictly text, but others may want to include images such as religious iconography, animals, or flowers.Your loved one's tastes, life accomplishments, and religious affiliation can be reflected in these images.You can choose from a large library of artwork from most suppliers.
Step 14: You should ask for proof.
Once a design is chosen and you have paid the supplier a deposit, they will send you a proof of the headstone to be approved by you and your family.Make sure you go through this important step so that you don't end up with a headstone that does not meet your expectations.The supplier will make the headstone once you approve the proof.You can ask for another proof if you don't like the first one.You will get two or three proof from most suppliers.If the supplier you are working with doesn't offer a proof, you might want to consider another supplier.