Frequently Asked Questions about Memorials, Monuments and Mausoleums

How long should you wait before buying a monument?

There are no rules for beginning the process of selecting a monument. You can begin as soon as you feel comfortable. The grieving process is different for each individual and only you know when you are emotionally ready.

Do you create monuments and do cemetery lettering all year long?

We are not limited by time of the year. While there are some conditions that will prevent us from working in the cemetery, beginning the process and preparing for the work is not hampered by winter conditions. Our office is open all year round, maintaining regular business hours with the addition of Saturday for your convenience.

What do I need to know about purchasing a monument?

We understand that most people have never bought a monument before. Polchinski Memorials acts on your behalf in obtaining all the information you will need to know for this process, including any regulations that your cemetery may have.

What are monuments made of?

Monuments are usually made of granite, marble or bronze. Granite is the most common material. It is available in many colors and is the most durable of the choices. Marble monuments are usually white in color. The surface will wear away over time due to the environment. Bronze is a brown man made metal used most often for flat markers and statues.

What are typical monument styles? With today's technology a memorial artist can create a variety of monument styles, shapes and sizes.

1. Flush markers - these are placed flush with the ground Bevel markers - these are not very high above the ground, with the back of the stone being a few inches higher than the front. Slant markers - these stand typically 16 or so inches above the ground with the back of the stone straight vertical, and the front sloping at about a 45 degree angle. Traditional upright monument - these are typically a two piece memorial consisting of the monument and a base that it is attached to, or a one piece monument (called a monolith) with a portion of it buried into the ground. Ledgers - these are flat to the ground memorials, which cover the entire individual's grave.
2. Garden memorials - these memorials can range from benches to urns to sundials to almost anything you could imagine.

Are mausoleums an option?

More and more people are choosing a mausoleum today than any time before for remembering someone in a very special way. Mausoleums can be a building with stained glass windows and a bronze door (called a walk in mausoleum). They can also be a smaller above ground building that has no windows or doors (called a crypt) where the person is entombed. You will find that if you choose to explore the option of a mausoleum, you will find that they are relatively affordable in today's market.

What about personalizing a monument?

How would you like to remember the person being memorialized? Did that person have a hobby, a favorite poem or favorite place? Today's technology allows monuments to be shaped in any form. Techniques such as sandblasting, shaped carving, sculpture and etching allow scenes and portraits to be placed directly on the memorial, thus enabling you to tell the story of your loved one's life. Polchinski Memorials are most experienced in helping you individualize your memorial, as we have been doing this work since 1883.

How much does a monument cost?

Polchinski Memorials can help you choose a memorial that remembers your loved one and fits your budget. Price depends upon the material and its quality, shape, size, design, lettering, and personalization of the monument. Prices will range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars, depending upon the various styles of memorials.