When it comes to choosing a grave marker, there are typically two options: a flat marker or a monument. While flat markers have their place in the world of cemetery design, there are a number of compelling reasons to choose a monument over a flat marker when it comes to memorializing a loved one. In this post, we will explore some of the key benefits of choosing a monument and why it may be the better choice for your loved one’s grave.
Increased Personalization:
One of the primary benefits of choosing a monument over a flat marker is the increased level of personalization. With a flat marker, there is typically only room for the deceased’s name, dates of birth and death, and perhaps a short phrase or quote. Monuments, on the other hand, offer much more space for inscriptions and personalization.
This allows families to tell the story of their loved one’s life in a more meaningful and comprehensive way. For example, a monument might include inscriptions detailing the person’s career, hobbies and interests, family and relationships, and any significant achievements or milestones in their life. This level of personalization can help to capture the essence of who the person was and create a more meaningful tribute to their memory.
Greater Creative Expression:
In addition to offering more space for personalization, monuments also provide a greater opportunity for creative expression. Flat markers are generally quite simple in design, often consisting of nothing more than a rectangle of granite or marble with the necessary inscriptions. Monuments, on the other hand, can take on a wide range of shapes and forms, from towering obelisks to intricately sculpted figures.
This allows families to choose a design that truly reflects the personality and passions of their loved ones. For example, if the person was an avid gardener, a monument shaped like a flower or a tree might be an appropriate choice.
Or if they were a sports enthusiast, a monument shaped like a sports trophy or ball might be more fitting. The options are endless, and the ability to choose a unique and personal design can make a monument a more meaningful tribute to the person being memorialized.
Durability and Long-Lasting:
Another advantage of choosing a monument over a flat marker is that they tend to be more durable and long-lasting. Flat markers are often made of thinner materials, such as bronze or brass, which can be prone to damage over time. Monuments, on the other hand, are typically made of thicker, more durable materials such as granite or marble, which are able to withstand the elements much better.
This means that a monument is less likely to need repairs or replacements in the future, making it a more cost-effective choice in the long run. In addition to the material choice, monuments are also typically installed on a foundation, which adds to their stability and durability. All of these factors combine to make monuments a more long-lasting and durable choice for a grave marker.
Increased Visibility:
In addition to being more durable, monuments also tend to be more visible and noticeable in a cemetery setting. Flat markers are often flush with the ground and can be easily overlooked, especially if they are surrounded by other flat markers. Monuments, on the other hand, stand out more due to their size and shape, making them easier to locate and pay respects to.
This is especially important for those who may have difficulty walking or bending down, as they can still easily pay their respects at a monument. In addition to being more visible to visitors, monuments are also often easier for cemetery staff to locate and maintain. This can be especially important in larger cemeteries where it might be difficult to find a specific grave.
Making a Statement:
Finally, choosing a monument over a flat marker can also be a way to make a statement in the cemetery. Flat markers are certainly more common, and as such may not stand out as much in a sea of similar markers.
A monument, on the other hand, can be a way to make a unique and personal statement about the person being memorialized. This can be especially meaningful for those who wish to leave a lasting legacy in the cemetery. Whether it’s through the design of the monument or the inscriptions chosen, a monument can be a way to make a statement about the person’s life and their place in the world.
Conclusion
There are a number of compelling reasons to choose a monument over a flat marker when it comes to memorializing a loved one. They offer more space for personalization, allow for greater creative expression, are more durable and long-lasting, are more visible and noticeable in the cemetery, and can be a way to make a unique and personal statement.
If you are considering a monument for your loved one’s grave, be sure to consider Stone Set Surfacing as we provide the best grave cover in Ireland. With our wide range of monument options and expertise in cemetery design, Stone Set Surfacing can help you create a truly meaningful and personalized tribute to your loved one.