Things to Consider When Purchasing a Headstone

It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available when you’re in the market for a headstone in Phillipsburg, NJ. However, with careful consideration, you can begin to narrow down the options, making your selection easier.

When making funeral and burial plans, you will quickly realize that every cemetery will have its own specific regulations for the kinds of headstones and grave markers they allow to be placed on the premises. Here are a few of the most common considerations you’ll need to keep in mind to select a headstone that both fits your preferences and also meets the requirements of your desired cemetery:

• The grave plot: You’ll need to know a few things about the grave plot you will be marking. Is it a single, companion, cremation or baby lot? Which section of the cemetery is it in, and how much space is available? All of these are important to help you determine the required size for the marker.
• Size requirements: Know the size of marker you are required to use. Cemeteries will have minimum and maximum sizes, which may vary based on the type of plot. Knowing this size range will help you narrow down your options.
• Materials: Some cemeteries will have specific rules regarding the types of materials that are and are not allowed. For example, if a cemetery allows (or requires) bronze markers, you will need to find out if you need a graphite base as well, or if the cemetery will be setting it into cement. Every cemetery will have its own methods for dealing with these types of markers. You should also find out if the cemetery places any restrictions on the colors of the materials you use. Some will have restrictions for the entire cemetery, others only for certain sections or gardens.
• Emblems and engravings: Does the cemetery require any specific types of engravings or emblems? Some religious cemeteries might require a cross, while others might require the location of the grave to be engraved.
• Photographs: You may wish to add a photograph to the grave marker, but you should first find out if the cemetery allows porcelain or laser photos. Some cemeteries might allow photos, but only in black and white and not in color. Here again, it’s important to carefully read through your specific cemetery’s rules.
• Edging: Do you require a specific type of edge for your marker? Common options include bevel, sanded, cement or lawnmower proof. Some cemeteries will require specific edges, while others allow you to choose for yourself.

By carefully reading through the rules and requirements for your cemetery, you’ll be more easily able to narrow down your options and find specific choices that fall within your budget. For more information about choosing a headstone or grave marker for your local cemetery in Phillipsburg, NJ, we encourage you to contact Phillipsburg Memorial Company. We’d be happy to answer any questions you have about our services and the various options we offer for headstones and grave markers.

Categorised in: Headstone