Questions You Should Ask Your Memorial Provider

When it comes to memorializing a loved one, a headstone is one of the best ways to do it. A headstone serves as a monument to memorialize a loved one who has passed away. However, choosing a headstone can be a very confusing process. Your memorial provider could be the best person to guide you about different options. Based on their experience, memorial service providers possess vast knowledge about the material and designs of headstones. 

There are many design options available and several decisions to make. The process is made even more difficult by the grief one is experiencing due to the death of a loved one. Due to your emotional state, you may not be able to make the right choice.  

There are questions you must ask the memorial provider before purchasing a headstone for your loved one. Here are some of them. 

What materials do you recommend for headstones? 

There are several material options for headstones. However, granite is the most popular, and perhaps the best. It is durable and can withstand the elements well. Granite comes in a variety of colors making it the perfect choice for customization. Make sure you ask your monument provider about what quality of granite they use for the monuments. Another great choice is bronze. Check what other options your provider offers. Ask your memorial provider questions about how long each material is likely to last and what kind of maintenance each material demands.  

How long will it take to produce the headstone? 

Before you place your order for the headstone, you must ask the memorial provider how long do they take to produce a headstone. The time frame usually depends on a variety of factors such as the type and design of the headstone, and the customizations you have chosen-more intricate work would take more time. It can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to a couple of months depending on the kind of headstone you have chosen.  

What can we expect to pay for the headstone? 

Again, the prices may vary depending on the size, type, design, and customizations you choose. Once you are quoted a price, you must ask the provider whether it is an all-inclusive price and what is included in this price. You should confirm whether the price includes the foundation fee, sales tax, and other such costs.  

Can you restore or add to an existing headstone? 

If you want to upgrade your loved one’s headstone, you must check with the provider if they can add to an existing headstone. Most providers also provide restoration services and can also add inscriptions and lettering to existing markers. Discuss all the details with the provider and state your expectations clearly.  

Do you offer repair services as well? 

While most headstones are designed to last decades without requiring much maintenance, things can happen in cemeteries and even new headstones may suffer some damage especially when they are located in high-traffic areas near pathways or roadways. In the unlikely event that there is some damage, you should check whether the provider will be able to offer repair services as well.  

Can I see examples of your recently completed work? 

This is probably the most important question to ask. You should ask the provider to show some pictures of the work they have recently completed. This will give you a fair idea of the quality of their work and the kind of customizations they can undertake. You will also get ideas about the kind of headstone you want for your loved one.  

We understand how stressful and overwhelming this time can be. Our team is here to help. You can count on us to create the perfect monument for your loved one.