Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much do monuments cost?
2. Is everything included?
3. Can I design my own monument?
4. How long does it take to have a memorial finished and installed?
5. Do cemeteries have any restrictions on what type of monuments they will allow?
6. Are there different ways to pay?
7. Do you install the concrete foundations?
8. Must the ground "settle" before a monument can be installed?
9. Is all granite the same?
10. What are the advantages to pre-planning and purchasing a memorial now?
11. What are my options with cremation?
12. Is it safe to buy a monument online?
14. Can old monuments be cleaned?
15. Will my monument be guaranteed forever?
1. How much do monuments cost?
Depending on the quality, size, color and shape, monument prices vary greatly. It is very difficult to say what an average price would be until we have more information about what you have in mind. That’s why it’s important to stop by. We can discuss what type of memorial you’re looking for and then determine the cost.
2. Is everything included?
The price that we quote you is an all inclusive, final price. It covers the memorial, lettering and design, foundation and installation. There are no taxes on memorials.
3. Can I design my own monument?
We have the craftsman with the experience and expertise to customize memorials in many ways. Today, there are hundreds of options in monument design and personalization and we have many design books to give you ideas.
4. How long does it take to have a memorial finished and installed?
We guarantee that all American made memorials will be installed in the cemetery within 90 days of your order. Imported granite has to be shipped, of course, and so may take longer.
5. Do cemeteries have any restrictions on what type of monuments they will allow?
Many cemeteries do have restrictions, at least regarding size, and some have other restrictions. Our knowledgeable manager will know your cemetery’s rules and regulations and will assist you in every way possible.
6. Are there different ways to pay?
We offer three ways of paying. Typically, we ask for half down, and the remaining balance is due upon your approval of the inscription/design. We also can work out a payment plan and once it is paid in full (usually within a year of purchase), we install your memorial. The third option is to pay for your memorial in full at the time of purchase.
7. Do you install the concrete foundations?
This varies according to each cemetery’s regulations. Sometimes, cemeteries stipulate that their people must install the foundations. If not, you can trust our experienced installers to do an excellent job with the utmost respect and care.
8. Must the ground "settle" before a monument can be installed?
No, because typically the ground where the foundation is set is usually undisturbed. In cases where it has been disturbed, we use methods that will prevent your foundation from going any more than 3/16" out of level.
9. Is all granite the same?
No, there are different kinds and colors of granite. For instance, gray granite can vary a great deal between the lowest grade and the highest (full perpetual warranty) grade. Among the oldest rock on earth, all granite has strength, durability and beauty, yet, like other natural material such as wood, each has different characteristics. Check out our granite colors.
10. What are the advantages to pre-planning and purchasing a memorial now?
By purchasing a memorial in advance, you can be certain that you will receive the exact memorial of your choosing. By acting now, you also relieve your family of having to choose for you and make difficult decisions during an emotional time. Our professional sales consultants are sensitive to your needs and can help you make the right choice.
11. What are my options with cremation?
Cremation does not eliminate the opportunity for memorialization, nor the need for a family member to have a concrete way to remember a loved one. We offer a wide range of memorialization options, whether for placement in a traditional cemetery or at another location. We will be happy to explain your options. Check out some of our cremation memorials.
12. Is it safe to buy a monument online?
With so many online monument dealers cropping up, it’s hard to know where they’re located, how long they’ve been in business or whether they are reputable. There’s no reliable information about which companies might be questionable dealers.
In addition, cemeteries typically have individual rules and regulations that determine, among other things, the size and type of monuments that they allow. We work with all local cemeteries and are familiar with the specific rules and restrictions of each.
We will work with you to ensure you receive the highest value and quality workmanship. All of our products come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee and if your monument should begin to shift or lean, we’ll fix it at no cost to you or your family.
13. Can Eby Granite Works inscribe the final date or other information on a monument that was purchased elsewhere?
Yes, we can and do, even if the monument wasn't bought from us.
14. Can old monuments be cleaned?
Most of the very old monuments are made from marble, lower quality granite or are simply dirty. Memorials can be cleaned with dish washing liquid, a brush and elbow grease. However, if that doesn’t work, call us about our professional cleaning services. Keep in mind, that older methods of lettering monuments provided little contrast between the inscription and the background, which makes them hard to read.
15. Will my monument be guaranteed forever?
We provide a Forever Guarantee on all of our work. This covers design, price, foundation, installation and your complete satisfaction. We take great pride in our products and in our work. Of course, in addition to our guarantees, Rock of Ages provides a full in perpetuity guarantee on their granite, so if you choose a Rock of Ages monument with us, your entire memorial package will be guaranteed forever.