Headstone Features You Didn’t Know You Could Include
Gravestones are a meaningful tribute to the deceased, and provide a permanent memorial that honors their memory. They not only signify the grave's location of final resting, but also reflect the life that a individual had on those in their vicinity. Picking the best headstone for your grave can be a very emotional and difficult process which is why it's crucial to understand the various types material, styles, and aspects to consider. In this guide we'll cover everything you must be aware of when it comes to headstones for graves, from types to customization options, and how to choose one that best matches the memory of your beloved one. What are Headstones?
Headstones are also referred by the name of gravestones or tombstones, are monuments that are placed at the top of a grave. These markers serve as both functional and symbolic reminders of the deceased person. The headstone usually includes the name of the deceased, as well as birth as well as death dates. The headstone may also include an epitaph or personal note. The cemetery's regulations and personal preferences, headstones vary dramatically in terms of size, form, design, and material. Headstones: Types Headstones
There are a variety of headstones that each have distinct design and look. The type of headstone you select will depend on your personal tastes in addition to budgetary considerations, cemetery regulations and the legacy you'd like to create. Below are the most common types of headstones available: Upright Headstones
Headstones with a straight top are the most popular and well-known type of gravestone. They are typically constructed of stone and positioned vertically with the inscription on the front. They are able to vary in height, and the shape of the stone is customizable to suit your needs, from simple rectangular designs to more complex designs. Headstones that are upright usually have a base that supports the main stone, and also permits engraving on the sides.
Pros:
Traditional and elegant Allows for ample space to write in inscriptions and artwork Can be personalized to reflect the persona of the deceased
Cons:
The use of cemeteries is not permitted in all cemeteries due in part to the size limitations Requires regular maintenance to keep it in good standing.
Flat Headstones
Flat headstones are also known as grave markers that are flat or markers, are erected at the bottom of the earth and are placed in a flat surface on the grave. They are generally made from granite, marble or bronze. They are perfect for graves with limit on size, or for families who prefer simple, less formal memorial.
Pros:
Durable and low-maintenance Subdued and discrete Much less prone to tipping over
Cons:
Not as visible, and might not provide as much space for personalization May not be as prominent as upright headstones
Slant Headstones
Slant headstones resemble upright headstones but feature a slanted surface making the inscriptions more easy to read. These headstones have a slight angle, usually between 45 and 60 degrees, making the engraving much more noticeable. The stone's back typically has a greater thickness than the front, which increases the stability.
Pros:
Easier to read from a distance because of the inclined angle Flexible with various designs and features
Cons:
Needs a base for stability They may not be suitable to smaller graves
Bevel Headstones
Bevel headstones are a mix between flat markers and slant headstones. They are slightly elevated at the back but gradually drop towards the front. This makes for a more prominent design while keeping the profile low.
Pros:
Simple yet elegant design Suitable for a wide range of cemeteries More visible than a flat marker
Cons:
May be limited in engraving space Costs more than flat markers
The Ledger Headstones
Ledger headstones line the entire grave. They're generally big, flat stones that are placed just on the tombstone. Ledger headstones can be customized by engravings that are intricate and their size provides remarkable presence. Ledger headstones are often used in family plots, in which multiple graves are engraved with only one stone.
Pros:
Large surface area allows for extensive customization It gives a distinctive and striking style The plot is suitable for families.
Cons:
Larger burial spaces are required. Typically, they are more costly due to their size
Materials used for Headstones
The material used to make the headstone plays an important role in its durability, appearance and cost. The most commonly used materials for headstones are: Granite
Granite is the most popular material for headstones thanks the durability, versatility, and variety of colors. It is resistant to weathering and makes it the ideal material for long-lasting memorials. Granite is able to be polished to a high-gloss finish which gives it a slick and elegant appearance. It's also highly customized and could be printed with intricate designs.
Pros:
Durable and weatherproof Available in different colors and various finishes It is easy to customize and engrave
Cons:
Can be expensive, depending on the type of granite Heavy, which may increase the cost of installation
Marble
Marble is another popular material used to make headstones. Affectionately known for its timeless beauty marble is soft and elegant and elegant, with a classic design. Although it's durable, marble is more porous than granite, and may be susceptible to staining and weathering in time.
Pros:
A timeless and classic style Smooth texture enhances engraving Can be cut into intricate forms
Cons:
More prone to weathering and staining Could be more expensive than granite
Bronze
It is commonly used to make plaques or as a decorative element on headstones. It's a long-lasting material that will age gracefully becoming a natural patina over time. The most common use for bronze is in combination with other materials, such as marble or granite in order to create striking contrast.Grave Maintenance
Pros:
A beautiful, elegant appearance that is aging beautifully Low maintenance Resistant to weathering
Cons:
More expensive than granite May be more prone towards theft due to its coveted nature
Limestone
Limestone is a soft, less expensive material in comparison to granite and marble. It's natural, earthy appearance and is a breeze to carve. However, it is more susceptible to wear and tear caused by the elements, making the material less sturdy than granite and marble.
Pros:
It is affordable compared to other materials Very soft, easy and comfortable to carve
Cons:
More fragile and prone to weathering May require more frequent maintenance
Customization Options
Headstones can be personalized by a variety of methods to reflect the persona or beliefs of the dead. A few common customization options are:
Inscriptions Inscriptions in HTML0: The simplest possibility for personalization, inscriptions usually contain the name as well as the date of birth and death and a brief message or epitaph. Engraved artwork Some headstones contain engravings of floral designs, religious symbols, or other meaningful images. Portraits: Some families choose to have a photo of the deceased inscribed on the headstone. Shade and Color Color as well as the finish can be customized to fit your personal preference, such as polished, matte and rough-hewn texture.
How to Choose the Right Headstone
When choosing a headstone there are a variety of factors to be taken into consideration to ensure that it is suitable for your needs and the cemetery's requirements.
Budget: Determine your budget before making a decision. The price of headstones may differ widely depending on the material, size, and the options for customization. Cemetery Regulations: Different cemeteries have specific regulations regarding the size, design and construction of headstones. Contact the cemetery to confirm the style you prefer is permitted. Designer Preferences: Consider the personality or personality of deceased people and how you'd like to reflect their life. Do they have a particular fascination, religious affiliation, or pastime that could be displayed in the design? Durability Choose a material that is able to stand the test of time, particularly placed in a location with harsh weather conditions.
Conclusion
Picking a headstone that is suitable for a grave is an extremely personal and essential decision. It serves as a lasting tribute to the life of a dear one and provides an appropriate way to commemorate the memory of their loved ones. No matter whether you select the traditional upright headstone or a modern flat marker, it's crucial to consider the type of type, materials, and customization options that best reflect the individual who is honored. If you choose the appropriate headstones, you'll be sure that their legacy will be remembered for generations to come.