Frequently Asked Questions
Purchasing a headstone is a meaningful process that involves several important decisions. We've compiled the most commonly asked questions to help guide you.
Start by determining where the headstone will be placed (cemetery, private property, etc.). Contact the cemetery to understand their rules and restrictions regarding size, material, and design. Once you have this information, we are more than happy to help you with the next steps.
Select a reputable monument dealer. They will help you:
- Choose a design, material, and inscription
Determine the size that best suits your needs - Ensure it meets cemetery regulations
- Provide a scaled design for approval before production
The timeline varies depending on design complexity and material availability:
- Standard monuments or markers, that we have in stock are typically ready within 4 weeks of approving the design
- Custom or items that need to be ordered typically take 12 weeks but very large or complex items can take longer. We will provide a ETA case by case for anything complex.
The most popular materials include:
- Granite – Durable, available in many colors, cemeteries prefer this material
- Marble – usually marble is for statues but we can create a headstone if approved by the
cemetery - Bronze – Often used for plaques, typically mounted on granite
Key questions include:
- What materials and colors are available?
- Are custom designs an option?
- What is included in the price (engraving, delivery, installation)?
- Will I receive a design proof before production?
- What are your payment options?
- Do you coordinate installation with the cemetery?
Absolutely. Customization options include:
- Names, birth and death dates
- Epitaphs or quotes
- Religious, cultural, or military symbols
- Portraits, laser etchings, or emblems
- Unique shapes or artwork
Your choice depends on:
- Cemetery regulations
- Personal taste and budget
- Cultural or religious traditions
Common styles include:
- Upright monuments
- Flat (lawn-level) markers
- Slant and bevel markers
- Bench memorials
- Various cremation products (urn, Hampton, columbariums, heritage etc)
Always consult your cemetery to confirm their guidelines.
Prices vary depending on size, material, and design:
- Flat markers: $500 – $1,500
- Upright monuments: $1,500 – $5,000+
- Custom pieces: $5,000 – $10,000+
Request a detailed quote from your monument dealer. Be sure to ask about:
- Engraving fees
- Installation charges
- Cemetery fees (e.g., perpetual care, setting fees)
To begin an order, you will typically need:
- Name of the Internment Rights Holder (who owns the plot and their contact information)
- Full name of the deceased
- Birth and death dates
- Desired inscription and artwork
- Cemetery name and plot number
- Cemetery approval (if required)
Yes. This is known as pre-need purchasing, which:
- Ensures your wishes are honored
- Reduces decision-making stress for loved ones
- We do not offer storage for any pre-need monuments, they will be installed as soon as
they are completed.
Some cemeteries handle installation, while others require an outside contractor. Always ask:
- Who is responsible for installation?
- Are there any additional fees?
We offer delivery and installation services across Eastern Ontario and ship throughout Canada.
We offer a wide selection of Canadian and imported granite, including:
- Black
- Britts (charcoal)
- Grey
- Red
- Pinks (Mountain Rose, Imperial Pink, plus others)
- Blues (Bahama Blue, Blue Pearl, plus others)
- Greens (Tropical Green, Grean Pearl, plus others)
- Browns (Cat’e Eye, Mahogany, Carnelian, plus others)
Color availability may vary based on quarry supply—early ordering is recommended.
No, you have the right to purchase a headstone from any monument dealer. Cemeteries must accept memorials that meet their regulations, regardless of where they were purchased. With the exception of certain cemeteries where there could be a conflict of interest.
Installation is usually handled by the cemetery or an approved professional. Maintenance varies by material:
Granite: Clean with water and a soft brush or pressure washing. Avoid harsh chemicals
that could damage the polish of the granite.
We also offer restoration and additional engraving services for existing monuments.
If you have additional questions or need personalized assistance, feel free to contact us. We're here to help guide you every step of the way.