Comparing Bevel Pillow, Flat, and Upright Gravestones
Gravestones,At,A,Stonemason,Issued,For,Sale,To,The,Survivors

Comparing Bevel Pillow, Flat, and Upright Gravestones

September 27, 2024

Choosing the right gravestone is an important decision when honoring the memory of a loved one. With various gravestone types available, families often find themselves deciding between different designs, each offering unique features and aesthetics. This blog will compare three popular gravestone types: bevel pillow headstones, flat gravestones, and upright gravestones. Understanding their differences can help you make an informed choice based on your preferences, cemetery regulations, and the significance of the memorial.

Understanding Gravestone Types

There are many ways to memorialize a loved one, and gravestones come in various shapes and styles. Three of the most common gravestone types are bevel pillow headstones, flat markers, and upright gravestones. These differ in design, visibility, cost, and upkeep.

Flat Gravestones

Flat gravestones, sometimes called flat markers or flush markers, are among the simplest and most understated memorial options. Typically made of stone or granite, they lie flush with the ground, making them less visible from a distance but easy to maintain.

Design and Appearance:
Flat gravestones are rectangular and have a low profile, creating a subtle yet dignified appearance. Their design often includes inscriptions, nameplates, and personalized elements such as engravings or emblems. Since they lie flat, they can sometimes be harder to notice in a cemetery compared to upright headstones.

Advantages of Flat Gravestones:

  • Affordability: Flat gravestones are generally more affordable compared to other types, making them a practical option for families on a budget.
  • Maintenance: Since they lie flush with the ground, flat markers are easy to maintain. Lawn mowers can move over them easily, and the low profile reduces the risk of damage from the elements.
  • Minimal Aesthetic: If a family prefers a simpler, more understated memorial, flat gravestones can be an appealing choice.

Disadvantages of Flat Gravestones:

  • Low Visibility: Due to their ground-level positioning, flat gravestones can be difficult to see from a distance, which may be a disadvantage for families who wish to have a more prominent memorial.
  • Potential for Overgrowth: Without regular maintenance, grass and other vegetation can grow over flat gravestones, making them harder to locate over time.

Bevel Pillow Headstones

Bevel pillow headstones, often referred to as bevel markers or pillow markers, offer a middle ground between flat and upright gravestones. These stones are slightly raised from the ground, providing more visibility than flat markers while maintaining a relatively modest profile.

Design and Appearance:
Bevel pillow headstones have a slanted or beveled design, with the back of the stone higher than the front. This tilt gives them the appearance of a pillow, hence the name. They typically rise about 6-8 inches above the ground, allowing for easier readability of inscriptions and greater visibility.

Advantages of Bevel Pillow Headstones:

  • Increased Visibility: Compared to flat gravestones, bevel pillow headstones are easier to spot in a cemetery due to their slightly raised design.
  • Elegant Design: The bevel pillow design offers a soft and elegant appearance, adding a touch of sophistication without being overly ostentatious.
  • Customization: Bevel pillow headstones offer ample space for inscriptions, dates, and engravings. The slanted surface also allows for better readability of the epitaph.
  • Durability: Like other gravestone types, bevel pillow headstones are often made from durable materials such as granite or marble, which helps them withstand harsh weather conditions.

Disadvantages of Bevel Pillow Headstones:

  • Cost: Bevel pillow headstones tend to be more expensive than flat markers due to their larger size and more intricate design. However, they are still generally more affordable than upright gravestones.
  • Maintenance: Although bevel pillow headstones require less maintenance than upright gravestones, they may still accumulate dirt, moss, or debris over time, requiring periodic cleaning.

Upright Gravestones

Upright gravestones, also known as headstones or monuments, are the most traditional and widely recognized type of gravestone. These markers are vertical and stand above the ground, creating a prominent memorial for the deceased.

Design and Appearance:
Upright gravestones consist of two parts: the vertical slab or headstone and the horizontal base. These monuments can vary in size, shape, and design, offering families a wide range of customization options. Upright gravestones are often the most noticeable in cemeteries due to their height, which can range from a few feet to several feet tall.

Advantages of Upright Gravestones:

  • Prominence: The most significant advantage of upright gravestones is their visibility. Standing tall above the ground, they are easy to spot from a distance, making them a lasting tribute to the deceased.
  • Versatility: Upright gravestones offer more options for customization, including intricate carvings, detailed engravings, and artistic designs. Families can choose from a variety of shapes, such as rectangular, oval, or even sculptural designs that represent religious or cultural symbols.
  • Historical Significance: Upright gravestones have a long tradition in cemeteries, offering a sense of permanence and respect. They are often chosen to reflect the importance of the individual being memorialized.

Disadvantages of Upright Gravestones:

  • Higher Cost: Due to their size, material, and detailed design options, upright gravestones are typically more expensive than flat or bevel pillow markers.
  • Maintenance: Upright gravestones are more exposed to the elements, which can lead to weathering, moss growth, or even potential damage. Regular cleaning and maintenance are often required to preserve their appearance over time.
  • Cemetery Restrictions: Some cemeteries have rules about the height or style of gravestones that can be used, especially in sections designated for flat or bevel markers. Before selecting an upright gravestone, it’s essential to verify that the cemetery allows it.

Choosing the Right Gravestone

When selecting a gravestone for a loved one, it’s essential to consider various factors such as cost, cemetery regulations, aesthetics, and long-term maintenance. Each gravestone type—bevel pillow headstones, flat gravestones, and upright gravestones—offers distinct advantages and drawbacks.

Factors to Consider

  • Cemetery Regulations: Different cemeteries have specific rules regarding the type and size of gravestones allowed. Some may only permit flat markers, while others may restrict the height of upright gravestones. Be sure to check these guidelines before making a decision.
  • Cost: The budget for a memorial will often influence the choice between flat markers, bevel pillow headstones, and upright gravestones. Flat gravestones are generally the most affordable, while upright gravestones tend to be the most expensive due to their larger size and more intricate designs.
  • Maintenance Needs: Consider how much time and effort you are willing to invest in maintaining the gravestone. Flat markers require the least maintenance, while upright gravestones may need regular cleaning and upkeep.
  • Personal Preferences: The appearance and style of the gravestone should reflect the personality and values of the deceased. Some families prefer the traditional elegance of upright gravestones, while others may appreciate the subtle beauty of bevel pillow headstones or flat markers.

Customization Options

Regardless of the gravestone type, there are numerous ways to personalize the memorial. Inscriptions, engravings, and symbols can be added to honor the life and legacy of your loved one. Some popular customization options include:

  • Epitaphs: Meaningful inscriptions that capture the essence of the individual’s life.
  • Symbols: Religious, cultural, or personal symbols that represent the deceased’s beliefs or interests.
  • Photos or Portraits: Some gravestones can incorporate etched or attached photos to further personalize the memorial.

Conclusion

Selecting the right gravestone is a deeply personal decision that should consider both practical and emotional factors. Bevel pillow headstones, flat markers, and upright gravestones each have unique qualities that may appeal to different families. Whether you prefer the understated elegance of a flat gravestone, the moderate prominence of a bevel pillow headstone, or the traditional grandeur of an upright gravestone, your choice will serve as a lasting tribute to your loved one’s memory.

When deciding between these gravestone types, consider the location, budget, and maintenance required, as well as any specific cemetery regulations. No matter which option you choose, the gravestone will forever honor the legacy of your loved one.

Categorised in: