5 Different Styles of Cemetery Monuments
This post was originally published on January 9th, 2015, and has been updated with more information.
Losing someone we love is one of the most painful moments in our lives. Of course, we at St Charles Monuments make it our daily mission to provide Long Island with a trustworthy and reputable source for monuments and memorials. In addition, we do our best to provide guidance and support, as well as a stress-free experience.
When it comes to memorializing someone, there are many different types of monuments to choose from. Some are more popular than others. However, all of them serve the same purpose. Specific, personal details, heartfelt inscriptions and religious symbols all add to the perfect memorial, regardless of type. This post explores the three most common types of monuments: the standard upright monument, the slant style, and the foot marker.
5 Types of Headstones
As you order a monument for your loved one, the type or style is often the first choice to make. Developing an understanding of the various styles will allow you to make a fully informed decision. Therefore, you’ll find you can make your decisions with confidence.
One important factor to consider is the regulations at the local cemetery. For example, smaller cemeteries may allocate less space, eliminating the possibility of using an upright monument. At St. Charles Monuments, our team is always available to answer questions about these decisions. When you’re unaware of space restrictions, or overwhelmed by other obligations, our team is also happy to inquire on your behalf.
1. Upright Monuments
Upright monuments are the most common style of headstones, nowadays and historically. As the largest option, these monuments clearly and vividly display the inscription. As a result, they’re visible from a distance and easy to locate. This prominent size allows for a beautiful presentation of the name, symbols, and other elements with striking detail. A skilled monument craftsmen can shape this type of headstone in a number of ways.
To allow for enduring durability, upright monuments can transfer onto a base. This extra height prevents damage from a lawnmower. Also, it may limit weathering damage. This height, with the proper care, mean a long-lasting elegance and tribute to your loved one.
However, this larger size may also raise a few concerns. Often, these monuments are more costly than smaller options. Also, given the larger size, upright monuments may exceed cemetery space restrictions.
2. Slant Style Monuments
Slant markers are a nice alternative to upright monuments when looking to save on space or budget. These monuments are second in popularity to upright monuments. These monuments still offer plenty of space for complete inscriptions – including name, epitaph, dates, and symbols. At a lower price point, this more affordable option still allows for a beautiful and commemorative headstone that won’t cripple you financially.
Slant style monuments are slightly different than the typical upright monuments, by design. There is normally beveling on top, with the bottom measuring about a foot in width. Often, they sit on top of a granite base, which can prevent damage. Also, slant markers can hold the cremains of a loved one, which we’ll design upon request.
3. Footmarker Style Monuments
Footmarkers are the least expensive monument style available. These smaller monuments lay flush with the ground or slightly above, rather than at an angle. Because they’re lower to the ground, foot markers are more susceptible to damage from mowers than other monuments. However, with routine maintenance, our skilled monument artists can easily repair any monument.
Of course, any one can personalize a foot marker. However, they do not offer the same level of customization as other styles.
4. Garden Statues
Although they are not cemetery monuments, garden statues offer a unique way to honor your loved ones. Placing this statue in a backyard, community park, or a favorite place of your loved one is an elegant way to honor them.
A skilled monument craftsman can create a statue of any shape, size, style, and color. You can also choose to include personalized text, depending on your preferences. There are endless possibilities for customization, and numerous decor options to make it even more profound.
5. Granite Memorial Benches
Granite benches are not conventional cemetery monuments. This is because generally, they do not accompany the body of the deceased. Often, granite memorial benches can be placed in a church courtyard or other area for family and friends to appreciate. These benches can be personalized with beautiful images of the loved one, or a favorite musician. Quotes, names, and other information can also be inscribed.
6. Columbaria and Mausoleums
Cemetery policies differ about burying cremated remains. However, laying ashes to rest in a columbarium is a common choice. This structure offers a place for families to place the ashes, with a commemorative urn or niche. Mausoleums are generally intended for entire families, and offer a more private resting place.
However, these commemorative benches can be placed in other areas. For example, placing a granite bench in a backyard is a profound way to keep a loved one in your thoughts.
Finding the Right Type of Cemetery Monument on Long Island
Choosing the right monument company will ensure you receive a monument that’s a fitting tribute to your loved one. St. Charles Monuments has been Long Island’s primary provider of monuments for decades. Ultimately, we aim to provide more than a product or service, but the guidance and support to help you navigate this process smoothly and painlessly.
Before making a final decision, you should consider your family’s budget and the cemetery’s space restrictions when shopping for monuments. Our team is always available to answer your questions, and ensure that your monument fits your needs.
