Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! It is becoming very popular to have the memorial choices made before the time of need.
There is a great variety in cost of single, companion, and estate memorials.
Factors which effect cost the most are:
size, shape, polish, detail / relief of design and color.
Beautiful memorials can be designed to suit any budget.
No. The colors of granite are natural; there is no artificial coloring added.
The five main choices are: Granite, marble, bronze, sandstone, and natural indigenous rock.
Of these, the two most popular are bronze and granite, with granite providing the maximum benefit for durability, variety of color, texture, and lettering longevity. Bronze may be required because of cemetery regulations.
Cemeteries may have regulations and requirements that will affect the choices you have when purchasing a memorial. Some of the most common requirements are size, material it is made of, the direction a memorial will face, fees the cemetery may require for placement, and installation regulations.
It is important to have a knowledge of these regulations before selecting a memorial. A reputable monument dealer will assist you in selecting a memorial that complies with the regulations.
Not all companies carry a guarantee. However, those that are most likely to be included by reputable companies are the following:
a: Workmanship b: Installation c: Porcelain Photos d: Granite quarried in U.S.A
That which is not usually guaranteed is:
a: Foundation b: Lettering color c: Remaining Level d: Granite quarried outside U.S.A.
Headstones may appear to run or discolor. The principle factor in causing a memorial to appear dirty or discolored is hard water. There are options for cleaning a headstone to bring back its natural appearance. Contacting a reputable monument company can lead you in the right direction.
Technically the answer is “yes”, IF:
1. The money you pay is put in an interest bearing trust account and you receive the legal, required documentation.
2. The trust is administered by a licensed financial professional.
Principally the answer is “no”,
The simple cost of updating a memorial does not justify the expense of attorney fees, account managers and regulations.
Other things to consider:
-A company may not be in business when the need arises to inscribe the final date.
-A company may not be under the same ownership, or may not keep detailed records.
-It is also possible for a family to pay twice if they do not know that a previous inscription contract exists.
Typically, in-stock items would be placed in the cemetery in 45-60 days. Special orders will usually take additional time to produce. (up to 45-120 days)
Yes. There are codes of ethics and standards to which memorial businesses should adhere to. The two most recognized associations are:
The American Institute of Commemorative Art, (AICA); 60 monument firms, selected by invitation only, for their design, professional knowledge and excellence in commemorative art.
Monument Builders of North America, (MBNA); The largest organization of monument retailers and wholesalers in the world.
You should purchase a headstone when you are ready. For instance:
a: Your family may want to all be together when you purchase a headstone.
b: You may need to wait for insurance and other financial or legal matters.
c: You may desire a particular installation date.
d: Perhaps you are just not ready
We advise you to be aware of aggressive, high-pressure salespeople, and sales tactics with unreasonable deadlines or drastic sale discounts. You should feel comfortable and well-informed about your purchase. You should never feel pressured or rushed into signing a contract.
Look at our “Tips On Making A Wise Memorial Purchase” below.
Tips On Making A Wise Memorial Purchase