Why should I choose a memorial from Clarion Monuments?
We are here to support and bring your ideas to life. Our designers will help you gather the symbols of a precious life and make meaningful decisions using our vast library of artwork ideas and creative abilities. We offer no pressure sales, recognizing the importance of your well-being during this important process. Clarion Monuments is dedicated to creating quality memorials that are both affordable and lasting. We are a third generation, family run business with more than 100 years of combined experience in the industry. Ultimately, we are here to help you make a difficult decision much easier than you would expect!
What cemeteries do you service?
We typically service within a 75 mile radius of our facility in Clarion, PA but will travel outside of that radius on occasion. Feel free to contact us if you have questions about a specific cemetery.
How do I know the rules of the cemetery I have chosen?
Most cemeteries establish their own set of rules and regulations. Some are very minimal – others are more extensive. If you need advice or point of contact information for a specific cemetery, one of our caring staff will be happy to assist you.
Can you help me design a monument?
Absolutely – In fact, this highlights one of the most important advantages of working with Clarion Monuments! One of our designers will consult and collaborate with you to design a memorial that is uniquely suited to your wishes. We believe in making you a part of this process as much as is possible to ensure that we satisfy your hopes and exceed your expectations.
Can you match an existing memorial?
Yes – Creating a “duplicate” or “matching” memorial is no problem for our fabricators. It will likely mean one of our staff members visiting the cemetery to verify the granite color, dimensions, engravings, and finishes of the existing stone. In many cases, however, providing us with the basic memorial dimensions and photos from all sides is enough information to start the order process. One of our knowledgeable staff will then visit the cemetery to confirm all pertinent details to ensure an accurate match.
Do people purchase a memorial before it is needed?
Yes – Approximately 1/4 of the memorials we create are for “pre-need” situations. Besides the cost savings of purchasing at today’s prices, purchasing in advance is often a less stressful situation for family members. Pre-need purchases allows those for whom the memorial is intended for to be a part of the decision-making process. Although this option isn’t for everyone, it can be very beneficial for some families.
Does Clarion Monuments offer cleaning and repair services?
Yes – We are a full-service memorial provider, meaning that we are with you for the long haul! Our skilled craftsmen are fully trained to safely clean and/or repair your stone to look like new again. See our Cleaning/Restoration http://clarionmonuments.com/cleaningrestoration/ page for more information.
Will my stone have to be removed later if I want to add lettering or a final death date?
No – Adding lettering to an existing memorial is typically always done onsite by an engraving specialist. See our Onsite Lettering http://clarionmonuments.com/on-site-lettering/ page for more information.
What material(s) are the most durable?
In the last 100 years, granite has become the material of choice for above ground memorials because of its extremely durable composition and because of the many color variations available. The hardness of granite virtually eliminates the erosion of lettering that is seen on memorials fabricated out of marble or variations of sandstone.
How long after a burial should I wait to place a headstone?
Only in very rare cases is there any need to wait to place a headstone. Most modern cemetery plots allow the memorial to be installed just above the burial location. Our installers do not disturb the grave while installing a headstone, and, in some cases, are able to level a grave where it has settled if good soil is excavated while erecting the monument foundation.
Do cemeteries charge a fee for the installation of a monument?
It depends on the cemetery. Our memorial designers will inform you if there are any additional cemetery fees required by your cemetery. If there are, we can usually include these charges on your memorial order and pay them on your behalf.
Are there special benefits available for veterans?
Yes – Many veterans are eligible for benefits to assist with local burial and memorial expenses. For more information, we recommend contacting your county’s Director of Veterans Affairs through this link: https://www.dmva.pa.gov/veteransaffairs/Pages/Outreach-and-Reintegration/County-Directors.aspx
What if my loved one was cremated?
In the case of cremation, a memorial headstone is still a lasting way for family and friends to honor and remember the life of your loved one. If the ashes are to be placed at the gravesite, an urn can be buried in front of the headstone just as with traditional burials, or the urn can be placed into a cremation specific memorial. At Clarion Monuments, we have been designing and providing cremation specific memorials for more than 10 years. See our Cremation Options http://clarionmonuments.com/cremation/ page for more information.
Does my memorial need a concrete foundation?
When water changes from liquid to solid, it expands 9% in volume. This expansion & contraction cycle takes place in the ground each winter here in western PA, causing tremendous damage to un-protected or under-protected items. Just as with your home, a concrete footer is a barrier meant to insure that the winter frost will not cause an item to shift, sink, or move during this repeated process. A footer installed by Clarion Monuments is guaranteed to protect your memorial from these adverse effects of winter.
Can I include a portrait of my loved one on a memorial headstone?
Yes – A portrait is a wonderful way to personalize a memorial and keep the memory of your loved one alive. This is most commonly accomplished either by adding a Ceramic Portrait to your memorial, or by Laser Engraving the image directly into the background of the stone itself. Both are great choices – our designers will help you choose which would be best for you.