If you’ve recently lost a loved one, there are a lot of things you’ll need to consider. In addition to the funeral arrangements, if the cemetery your loved one wanted to be buried in doesn’t offer grave marker installation services, you may need to take on this task as well. Before you get too overwhelmed with this task, however, the professionals at McGee Monuments in Rochester, NY, offer a quick background on how to install grave markers.

• Enlist Help: The first thing to think about when it comes to installing a grave marker is whether or not you’ll be able to do it on your own. Grave markers can weigh anywhere from 100 pounds to 400 pounds and may require some extra manpower, so enlist some help from a friend or family member.
• Don’t Use Concrete for Small Grave Markers: If you’re installing a small grave marker, there’s no need to use concrete. For grave markers smaller than 24” x 12” x 4”, simply measure out an extra inch on each side of the grave, place your marker in, and use a level to make sure it’s flat.
• Do Use Concrete for Larger Grave Markers: For larger grave markers, however, you will need to use concrete to add an extra layer of security and stability. You’ll measure out the area in the same way, but you’ll need to dig out an extra hole for two reinforced steel bars on either side of the grave marker. After placing the bars in, pour mixed concrete in and place grave marker about 4” from the top.

Whether you need to purchase a grave marker or still need a few more tips on how to properly install it, call the professionals at McGee Monuments at (585) 546-4602. You can also visit them online for more information regarding all of their services.