What to Do if Your Headstone Gets Damaged
What to Do if Your Headstone Gets Damaged
Blog Article
If a loved one dies and dies, finding a way to honour their memory is one of the most important choices you'll have to make. A headstone, also referred to as a monument or tombstone is a lasting memorial to the deceased, marking their final resting place and offering a space for loved ones to reflect and be reminded. However, choosing the right headstone may be a challenging and emotional decision. The following article we will review the various kinds of headstones, types of materials in engraving, the options for engraving, and other elements to help make the right choice to honor your loved one's memory. Grave Cleaning
What is a Headstone?
A headstone is an enormous stone marker positioned at the edge of a grave. It serves as a physical monument to the dead which is often engraved with their names, dates of birth and demise, and sometimes other meaningful words or symbols. The headstones are available in various styles, sizes, and materials giving families the option of choosing the option that best represents their loved one's personality, beliefs, and the family's desires.
Different types of Headstones
Headstones come in a range of sizes, shapes and designs. Here are a few of the most commonly used types:
1. Upright Headstones
The upright headstones are the more traditional style. They are placed vertically over the grave, and include the inscription and details to the side. These headstones are often made of granite or marble and can be personalized with intricate designs, such as sacred symbols, floral engravings or custom artwork.
2. Flat Headstones
Also referred to grave markers, flat headstones lie flush with the ground. They are frequently used for cemeteries with more uniform appearance or where standing headstones can't be found. They're typically less costly than upright headstones and can be personalised with engraved text and images.
3. Ledger Headstones
Ledger headstones are affixed to the front of the grave and sit flat on the ground. This type of headstone often serves as both the marker and the memorial itself. It is able to be engraved with exquisite inscriptions. It's an ideal option for memorials that are larger or for families who wish to create an elaborate memorial.
4. Bevel Headstones
Bevel headstones are similar to flat headstones however they have an upward tilt at the top. The inscription is more easily visible and read. Bevel headstones give a distinct appearance while maintaining the simplicity of a marker that is flat.
5. Slant Headstones
Slant headstones stand upright, but with a slanted shape they are easier to see, yet still retaining their an attractive appearance. They provide a different look to the traditional upright design and are discovered in a variety of cemeteries.
6. Companion Headstones
Companion headstones are designed to identify the graves of two people, generally couples. The headstones are straight, flat, or bevel. They're typically made with the names or particulars of each person, sometimes including a shared symbolic or visual. Headstones for companions are available in a range of styles. They may also be designed to express the bond among the couples.
Materials for Headstones
The material used for the headstone plays an important part in its durability in appearance, as well as cost. Certain materials are most commonly chosen due to their resiliency to the elements, whereas others are selected due to their aesthetic qualities. Here are some common materials for headstones.
1. Granite
The most sought-after material used to make headstones, due to its strength, longevity, and the ability to be engraved with intricate designs. It is resistant to weathering and is available in a variety of colors, such as black, gray, pink and red. Granite headstones require minimal maintenance and last for years.
2. Marble
Marble is an iconic material known for its elegance and smooth surface. However, it is more susceptible to staining and weathering than granite, especially in regions with the highest humidity levels or acids rain. The headstones of marble often offer a timeless look and are an ideal option for graves with a long history.
3. Limestone
Limestone is a natural stone used in headstones. It's less hard than granite or marble, and is easier to carve. However limestone is more prone to deterioration over time and could require more maintenance.
4. Bronze
Bronze headstones can be used in conjunction with marble or granite. The plaque in bronze is normally connected to the stone offering a long-lasting and stylish stone for engraving. Bronze headstones are resistant to weathering and are considered an elegant option due to their intricate designs and rich appearance.
5. Fieldstone
Fieldstone headstones are crafted from natural stones that are typically extracted from the surroundings. These stones are more natural and organic appearance, and are able to vary in their shape size, texture, and shape. Fieldstone headstones are frequently chosen because of their natural appearance they have a connection to nature.
6. Sandstone
Sandstone is an igneous rock that is known for its earthy, warm tones. While it is able to be carved quickly but it's not as tough as marble or granite and marble, which is why it's not as popular for headstones. Sandstone headstones need more care due to their susceptibility to wear and weathering.
Optional Engraving for Headstones
Engraving is one of the most significant elements of a headstone. It allows you to personalize the memorial, by adding essential details that represent the essence of the person who died. A few common options for engraving include:
1. The Name of the person and their Dates
The most basic headstone engraving is the full name of the person, date of birth, as well as the date of death. This is the essential information that identifies the person's grave.
2. Excgraphs or quotes
A large number of families decide to include a meaningful scripture, a religious remark, or phrase that expresses the deceased's beliefs, character or legacy. The most popular choices are Bible verses, poetry, or a simple phrase like "Forever in Our Hearts."
3. Artwork and symbols
Images and symbols may be engraved on your headstone to express the individual's values, beliefs or even passions. These may include religious symbols such as crosses angels, doves or crosses along with personal symbols like book covers, musical notes or animals.
4. Photographs
Modern headstones often feature photographs engraved, or even attached photos of the deceased. This gives them more personalization. Photos can be incorporated by laser engraving or porcelain plaques. They can be used to create an aesthetic tribute along with the message.
5. Personalized Designs
If the deceased enjoyed specific interest, hobbies, or a unique story and interests, these can be revealed in custom designs. It doesn't matter if it's a scene, some of their favourite flowers, the symbol of their job, personalized designs help tell the person's life story.
Aspects to be Considered When Choosing a Headstone
The process of choosing a headstone is more than just selecting the appropriate material and style. There are numerous factors that you should consider to ensure that the memorial is right, meaningful and resilient.
1. Cemetery Regulations
Prior to purchasing a memorial, it's best to inquire with the cemetery regarding its rules. Many cemeteries enforce specific rules concerning the dimensions, materials and design of headstones to ensure uniform look throughout the grounds.
2. Budget
Headstones may vary in cost based on the material size, design, and shape. Granite headstones are generally cheaper than marble however bronze plaques and custom designs can be more costly. It's vital to establish your budget prior to purchasing headstones in order to make sure that you choose the right option that is a good fit for your financial and emotional needs.
3. Maintenance
Think about how much care the headstone is likely to require over time. Some materials, like bronze and granite, need little upkeep, while others like limestone or marble require regular cleansing or sealing to prevent degradation.
4. Personalization
Think about what could best represent your loved one. Choose elements that resonate with the individual's character, interests or religion. This will ensure that the stone will be a lasting and meaningful memorial.
Conclusion
Selecting a headstone can be a very personal choice which represents the personality and legacy of the person you love. There are a myriad of types, materials choices, engraving options, and things to consider, it's vital to be patient and choose something that feels right. Whatever you decide to choose, whether a simple, understated style or an intricate and personalized memorial, the headstone is sure to be a lasting tribute to the love and life of the person it is a tribute to.