Selecting a burial marker is one of many responsibilities you’ll face when arranging a final resting place for a deceased family member. Friends and relatives will visit the spot to pay their respects, which is why you should put plenty of thought into the tribute. Luckily, the professionals at McGee Monuments know of a few key considerations to make when choosing markers for the dearly departed. Based in Rochester, NY, the company provides area residents with high-quality, affordable headstones and monuments.

If you’re not sure which headstone to select for a departed loved one, McGee Monuments’ staff shares three factors that should inform your decision:

• Cemetery Rules & Regulations: Where you decide to bury your loved one plays a large part in determining what headstone to get. Many cemeteries have rules and regulations regarding the size of the structure, its design, and what materials can be placed in the ground. To avoid production delays or starting over from scratch, check with the cemetery about requirements before choosing a headstone. 
• Types of Materials: Visitors will want to honor the deceased for years to come, so you’ll need the headstone to remain intact. Some materials can withstand Rochester’s wildly varying temperatures, heavy rainfall, and snow better than others. Take this into account when examining options. Due to its durability and range of colors, granite is a popular choice. Because it’s easy to carve, marble also tops the list. Keep in mind, acid from rain will wear down the material, so routine maintenance is required. 
• Personalizing the Tribute: What you plan to inscribe on the headstone is just as important as the other aspects of your selection. When deciding what to write, try to personalize the tribute. Beyond their name and important dates, also include a line from their favorite book or song, information about surviving family, accomplishments, or anything else you can think of to shed more light on the person’s life.  

To learn more about affordable headstones available in Rochester, call (585) 546-4602 and speak with one of McGee Monuments’ caring, compassionate team members. From helping design the memorial to selecting the lettering font, they will do everything they can to make the tribute truly special. Visit them online to learn more about durable materials used to create their affordable headstones.