Craig Bowen 
A grave headstone, also known as an upright marker, is a permanent marker placed at the head of the grave. It is generally made from granite, marble, or another type of stone and features the name and other information about your loved one.
When it comes to funerals and the graves of your loved ones, you don’t want to take any chances. According to Statista, there were 3.38 million deaths in the US in 2020. The leading cause of death was cancer and heart disease.
But, no matter the cause, everyone wants their loved ones to rest peacefully after death. That’s why you must find a headstone that fits your needs, from size and shape to material and finish.
When it comes to ordering a grave headstone, there are many different factors that you need to take into consideration. From the size and shape of the stone to its material and finish, there are many things that you’ll want to think about before making your final decision.
Below are a few considerations to keep in mind.
The Size of the Headstone
The size of the headstone depends on the size of your loved one’s grave space and personal preference.
For example, if you buy a headstone for someone who died young and did not leave behind descendants, you may want to keep it simple and small. On the other hand, if you have several kids or grandkids who would like their individualized gravesites but don’t have enough room in the cemetery, consider purchasing multiple smaller headstones.
Different people have different choices and preferences or needs. No matter your requirement, you can purchase it on sites like this. You will surely find the required headstone that meets your requirements here.
Also, remember that some cemeteries have size limitations regarding grave markers; some even require an engineer’s seal before allowing any monument. Finally, be sure to check with your local municipality before committing yourself. You don’t want surprises after spending thousands on something only for them to say no later.
The Desired Shape of the Headstone
According to IBIS World, the cemetery services industry has grown in the last five years, i.e., from 2017 to 2022. The industry revenue is expected to increase at an annualized rate of 3.1% and reach $5.8 billion. There was a 5.5% increase in revenue in 2022 alone.
It is because people are now spending more on the death of their loved ones for products and value-added services. As a result, people desire headstones of different shapes. The shape is influenced by the type of stone used, the style of lettering, and the engraving. The form of the monument can be anything from a simple rectangle to an elaborate design.
Local laws can also influence the desired shape. For example, some cemeteries require that all headstones have at least one side flat engraved with names and dates of family members buried in such plots.
Local Laws That May Affect the Design of Your Headstone
Considering the headstone’s design, material, and features, it’s important to consider any local laws that may affect what you can include on the monument. For example, some cemeteries have rules about how large a headstone can be or what types of symbols are appropriate for their plots. Some cemeteries won’t allow for religious symbols on gravesites because they want to remain secular spaces.
Other cemeteries may have strict legal codes regarding what language you can write on a tombstone. Suppose you’re unsure whether or not your cemetery has any specific regulations. In that case, it’s best to research before ordering a grave marker so there are no surprises when it arrives at your loved one’s burial site.
Your Budget for the Headstone
Knowing how much you want to spend on your headstone will help you through the process and ensure it stays within your budget while creating something memorable.
If you are planning to purchase your headstone, be aware that many things go into the final price of any monument. For example, the type of stone used can affect the price dramatically because some stones are more expensive than others. The design and size will also affect the price because they require different amounts of time and labor to create.
According to No Medical Exam Quotes, the average price of an upright headstone could range between $1000-$3000 in the US. However, the cost varies depending on the type of stone you choose and the inscription you want on the headstone.
The Finish You Want the Stone to Have
The finish of your headstone is an important consideration. The three main types of finishes are polished, brushed, and sandblasted.
- Polished headstones are the most popular option, providing a smooth look to your grave marker.
- Brushed stones are flat and less expensive than polished stones but require more maintenance over time.
- Finally, sandblasted grave markers have an uneven appearance resembling natural stone and are usually the least expensive choice.
Some cemeteries require certain finishes according to their rules and regulations, so check before ordering.
Conclusion
The headstone is the most important part of your burial plot. It will be the focal point of your loved one’s final resting place, so it’s important to get it right. It includes the text and design elements of your headstone and the type of material you’ll want to use. Think about all the options before making a decision.
Be aware of local laws and regulations when ordering a grave headstone or memorial marker for yourself or someone else in your family.
With so many options available, figuring out what you want can be overwhelming. But remember that the headstone will last for generations and should reflect your loved one’s personality and the life they lived.
