Monument Standards
Each region has it’s own set of monument standards. These standards set the bar for what is considered “normal”.
Upright Monuments- The Standards
Every upright monument is made of two distinct pieces- a tablet (or die) and a base.
The purpose of the base is to provide stability for the tablet. Therefore, the base dimensions are going to depend on what the tablet’s dimensions are.
As a general rule of thumb, the base height is the same as the tablet width. For example, if a tablet is 6″ thick, the base would be 6″ tall.
Another general rule of thumb to keep in mind is that the base is typically 6″ wider than the tablet. This provides 3″ of space both in front of and behind the tablet. For example, if the tablet is 6″ thick, the base will be 12″ wide. If the tablet is 8″ thick, the base would be 14″ wide.
In our region, the most common thicknesses are 4″, 6″, 8″ and 10″.
- Baby memorials are generally 14″ wide x 16″ tall and are 4″ thick.
- An upright monument measuring up to 4′ long x up to 24″ tall is generally 6″ thick.
- An upright monument measuring exactly 4′ long x 24″ tall can be made at an 8″ thickness or a 6″ thickness.
- An upright monument measuring up to 5′ long x up to 3′ tall can be 8″ thick
- Anything longer or taller needs to be 10″ thick or more, depending upon size.
Of course there are exceptions to the rules, but these are some general rules of thumb to keep in mind.
Flat Marker Standards
Flat markers need to be a minimum of 4″ thick.
You will see flat markers sold online at 2″ thick, and that does not meet industry standards for quality. Remember, the average rupture strength is 2,600 psi, which is a problem if a 2″ thick stone is run over by cemetery equipment.
Slant Standards
Slants are a great “hybrid” product for those who are torn between a bevel marker and an upright.
A slant is a little easier to spot and read in the cemetery, thus making it an attractive option.
Slants are generally 10″ thick at the bottom and narrow to approximately 3″ thick at the top.
In our region, most slants are 16″ tall.
Domestic slants are polished on the front and sawn on the back. Imported slants are generally polished on both front and back.
