Headstone Buying Tips

Markers & Headstones, LLC offers high-quality grave markers and headstones that honor the memory of your loved ones while being affordable and easy to purchase. We want to make the process as smooth as possible for you. Below are some headstone buying tips that will help guide you when buying a headstone.

Understanding What a Headstone Is

A headstone is a marker placed at a grave's head. It is typically made from stone and contains information such as the name of the deceased, their birth and death dates, and often a short message or design that represents them. Headstones are a way to honor the deceased and offer a lasting tribute to their life.

Set Your Budget First

Headstones can range in price from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Before beginning your search, it is important to set a budget. The price of a headstone can depend on several factors, including the type of stone, the design, and any customization. 

Know Cemetery Regulations

Before making a final decision, contact the cemetery to learn about their rules regarding headstone size and material. Some cemeteries restrict the type of stone used or the overall design. They may also offer installation services, but it is important to understand any additional fees for this service. You will also want to know if other cemetery-specific requirements might affect your headstone choice.

Choose the Right Type of Headstone

The most common types are flat markers, upright headstones, slant markers, bevel markers, and ledger markers. Flat markers are simple and lie flat on the ground. Upright headstones are more traditional and stand vertically, often with more space for inscriptions. Slant markers are tilted for easier visibility, while bevel markers have a sloped face. Ledger markers cover the entire grave.

Select the Material Carefully

Headstones are typically made from granite, marble, limestone, or bronze. Granite is the most popular choice because of its durability and range of colors. It also has relatively low maintenance compared to other materials. Marble offers a classic look but requires more care over time. Limestone is softer and may wear down more quickly, which can affect the readability of the inscriptions. Bronze is a durable and low-maintenance option, though it is often expensive.

Decide on the Design and Finish

Common shapes include books, hearts, and crosses, but custom shapes are also available. The finish of the stone often complements the design. Popular finishes include polished, honed, and pitched. A polished finish is shiny and reflective, while honed finishes are smooth but not shiny. A pitched finish offers a rough, natural look. 

Consider the Inscriptions

The inscription is one of the most important parts of a headstone. This is where you will include the name, dates, and possibly a short message or quote. You may also add symbols or images that reflect the person’s life. Be sure to choose a font that is easy to read and fits the overall design. The cost of the inscription may vary depending on how many characters or images you include.

Shop Around and Compare Prices

Reach out to us for quotes based on your chosen materials, design, and inscriptions. At Markers & Headstones, LLC, we understand that buying a headstone can be overwhelming. 

Feel free to contact us with any questions or to get started on selecting the perfect headstone.