How long should I wait before purchasing a monument?

Usually a family will try to purchase a monument within one year of the date of death. Most families start this process within one month of the death. The grieving process is different for each individual and only you know when you are emotionally ready.

What are monuments made of?

At Modern Monument Works, our monuments are made of granite or bronze.  Granite is more durable than marble and comes in many different colors.  

• Granite is the most common material and is available in many colors, it is also the most durable of the choices.
• 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.

• Flat 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 typically stand 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.

Are mausoleums an option?

More and more people are choosing a mausoleum today than in the past. 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. If you choose to explore the option of a mausoleum we can help you decide what is best for you and your family.

Modern Monuments has mausoleums available for customers. For more information on exactly what types are offered, check out our mausoleum page.

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. Your memorial artist is most experienced in helping you individualize your memorial.

How much does a monument cost?

Price depends upon the material and its quality, shape, size, design, lettering, and any personalization of the monument. Prices will range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars, depending upon the various styles of memorials.  The memorial artists at Modern Monuments can help you choose a memorial that best suits your loved one and fits your budget.

Why should I purchase my memorial from Modern Monument Works?

Modern Monument Works has an outstanding reputation that is founded on fine quality craftsmanship and customized memorials.  From carved monuments to diamond point etched artwork, Modern Monuments can provide memorials in any size or style of granite or bronze.  We are a family owned business that has been here since 1883 and will be here for years to come.  

What should I know before selecting my memorial or gravestone?

Most important to the process is the cemetery you choose. Some cemeteries and memorial parks have very specific requirements regarding the size and style of your memorial marker.  Modern Monuments will do our best to guide you with your selection process based on your cemetery's guidelines and requirements.

What should I be aware of when ordering granite for gravestones or memorials?

Our 100 plus years of experience has taught us that there are different types and quality of granite. Coarse or large grain granite tends to be brittle. Some of the intricate designs or small lettering may break off due to water expansion or contraction within a course stone.  When you choose fine-grain granite, they are smaller and more tightly grained, which tends to withstand the elements better. Modern Monuments carries a large selection of granites.

These granites are proven to retain their original style, lettering and withstand varying weather conditions. During our consultation, we can confidently direct you to the best granite for your memorial's design and lettering selection.

How will I order my headstone or memorial?

Modern Monuments provides personalized consultations to assist in the decision process of size, color, design, titling, and name and date layout. Once agreed upon, we draw up the contract and the production of your memorial begins.   We believe you are truly giving your loved one that last special gift from the heart and it is our job to make it as perfect as possible.

Do you manufacture or provide memorials other than flat granite?

Yes! You'll be happy to know that you cut out the middleman when working with Modern Monuments.  We deal directly with all the granite quarries or granite manufacturers and can provide standing monuments, flat grass grave markers, slanted headstones, beveled grave markers, flat bronze markers, pet memorials, engraved brick or granite pavers, address blocks, granite benches, and more.

Do I have options on other size markers?

Yes, we can order a headstone in many different sizes, shapes, and colors.

What type of payments do you accept?

You may pay by Credit Card, Mastercard Visa, and Dinners Club.  We also accept Checks, Money Orders, or Cash.

Is my headstone guaranteed?

If your headstone is damaged in shipping we will replace it free of charge, if you notify us within 48hrs of receiving the grave marker.

Can I buy my headstone anywhere?

The United States Federal Trade Commission states that funeral homes and cemeteries must allow you to make your purchase anywhere you wish.  Cemeteries do have rules and regulation as to size, color, and type of monument that they allow, so before purchasing be sure to consult with the cemetery where you wish to have your monument placed.

Are there any additional costs?

There maybe fees and permits at your local cemetery for setting so, be sure to check with them.

How long does it take to receive my grave marker?

Typically you will receive your headstone within 30 to 45 business days from the time you OK the drawing of your marker.  If this is a special order of a premium marker that is not in stock we will inform you of how long it will be.