Purchasing a Headstone – What to Know Before You Buy

Purchasing a Headstone

Choosing a headstone is a deeply personal decision and an important part of honouring a loved one’s memory. This guide outlines everything you need to consider—from cemetery regulations to design preferences and after-sales services.

What Do You Have to Consider When Ordering a Headstone?

There are several factors to keep in mind, including cemetery rules, grave size, style, materials, and personalisation options. Visiting a headstone showroom is a good first step, where experienced staff can guide you through the process.

How Do I Go About Purchasing a Headstone?

Visit your nearest headstone showroom. Monumental masons will assist you with selecting a headstone, applying for cemetery permissions, and arranging installation.

What Size Is the Grave?

Grave sizes vary by cemetery, but standard dimensions are:

• Single: 4'0 wide
• Double: 8'0 wide
• Treble: from 10'0 wide

What Cemetery Rules May Apply?

Each cemetery has its own regulations. You may need to check:

• If it’s a lawn cemetery (no surrounds allowed)
• If there are height restrictions
• If there are Burial Board or Foundation Fees

What Interaction Is Required with the Cemetery?

Cemeteries are typically managed by County Councils or Parish authorities. Monumental masons usually apply for permission on your behalf. Any associated fees are added to your account. Work can only begin once permission is granted.

How Soon After a Burial Can I Erect a Headstone?

In lawn cemeteries, headstones can be erected immediately. If a surround is allowed, it can also be installed right away. However, it’s advisable to wait at least 4 months before cementing the grave to allow the ground to settle. Adding peat moss or clay can help with this process.

How Long Does It Take to Erect a Headstone After Ordering?

Once permission is granted and materials are available, headstones are typically erected within 4 weeks. Many families choose meaningful dates such as anniversaries, birthdays, or religious holidays for installation.

What Style Do I Like?

Headstones come in various shapes and styles:

• Tall
• Wide
• Narrow
• Short
• Ornate
• Simple

What Colour Do I Like?

Materials include polished granite, limestone, and marble. Popular colours are:

• Premium Black
• White with speckle
• Mid Grey with speckle
• Paradiso (pink veined)
• Bahama Blue
• Autumn Brown
• Blue Pearl
• Emerald Vein

Can I Select Scenes and Inscription Fonts for My Headstone?

Yes. When placing an order, you’ll receive a proof showing how the inscription will appear. You can choose from a wide range of fonts, scenes, and lettering colours (e.g. black, white, gold, silver).

Can I Put a Photograph, Crest or Symbol on the Headstone?

Yes. You’ll need to provide a colour or black-and-white photo to create a ceramic image. These can be mounted on the headstone or accessories. Available shapes include oval, rectangular, and heart. Football crests and life emblems are also available.

What Options Do I Have for the Inside of the Surround?

You can choose from several finishes:

• Cement with decorative chippings
• Flower bed strip with cement and chippings
• Rockery netting with chippings or wood bark
• Peat moss covering

After-Sales Service

After-sales services may include:

• Renovations after additional burials
• Changing chippings
• Adding new inscriptions
• Cleaning and repainting headstones
• Supplying grave accessories such as lanterns, statues, vases, bibles, hearts, plaques, and photographs

Compiled by Butterly Stone