A headstone is much more than a way to mark a grave site. It is there to show your loved one they are loved and remembered. It is there to serve as a tribute to their life here on earth. And it is a memorial that will stand for generations. While choosing this tribute, many families may make mistakes that can be avoided. Cemeteries in Kent, WA want you to be aware of these mistakes so that you do not make the same ones.
Not Checking with the Cemetery
Funeral home offers countless ways to honor your loved one in a unique way. When selecting your headstone for your loved one’s gravesite, you will see wide variety of options. Everything from the material the headstone is made from to the designs, shapes, and colors of the stone will have options. While this can be a benefit as families can choose a truly customized tribute, some options may not be permitted at certain cemeteries.
Some cemeteries may have very specific rules on what is allowed and what isn’t. Some may have restrictions of certain shapes while others may not allow certain materials. Before you start shopping, always check with the cemetery to review any rules and restrictions and make sure you understand them all fully.
Not Selecting the Right Material
Headstones can be created using many materials including, but not limited to, marble, granite, and bronze. Each material will have certain properties about it that can make it a good choice for some situations, but maybe not others. For example:
- Marble is a material that can look elegant and beautiful. However, it tends to erode faster than other materials.
- Bronze is very durable and can last for years, but over time, it will develop a greenish black patina. Some families may not mind this look, but for those who do, this may not be a good option.
- Granite is a hard stone that is great for engraving. However, even though it is strong, it can be damaged by acid rain.
To know which material is best for your climate and situation, talk to the headstone provider as they will be able to guide you to your best options.
Not Setting a Budget
It is very easy to overspend when purchasing a headstone for your loved one. One reason for this is that you will most likely want to provide your loved one with the “best of the best”. Also when grieving, we tend to make decisions on emotions rather than logic.
To make sure you do not purchase a headstone that you will regret later, set a firm budget before you ever begin shopping. Make sure you make this budget known to the headstone providers and ask them to only show you options within your set range.
If you feel you need additional support to stay on track, enlist the help of a friend or family member. Not only can they help you not overspend, but they can also serve as a second opinion if you need help deicing on other elements such as colors or designs.
If you follow these tips from cemeteries in Kent, WA, you will be sure to select a headstone you can feel confident about.
