GravestonePreservation.info

Modern granite monuments are usually constructed from two pieces of granite. The upper headstone section, or die, sits on top of a base stone. The die and base are joined together with monument setting compound, (suppliers list). This compound is similar in texture to window glazing putty, or a very thick dough. Unfortunately it does not provide for structural support, but is designed to fill a void and prevent moisture entry.

Numerous factors can contribute to cause the breakage of a gravestone, monument, or sculpture. The press loves to focus on the deplorable acts of vandalism, which from time to time, may damage a local cemetery or graveyard. Yet these occasional rampages are not the leading cause of broken gravestones.

Historically numerous substances have been used, in an attempt to make stones last longer when placed outdoors. Olive oil, whale oil, turpentine, and wax represent just a few of the liquids applied to masonry in a mostly vain effort to inhibit the future deterioration of stone.

Numerous factors can contribute to cause the breakage of a gravestone, monument, or sculpture. The press loves to focus on the deplorable acts of vandalism, which from time to time, may damage a local cemetery or graveyard. Yet these occasional rampages are not the leading cause of broken gravestones.

Many monuments constructed historically included metal pining to fasten together their sections. The Romans, sometimes, tied together masonry with bronze clamps to strengthen the joints, and prevent a structural failure. So when multiple piece monuments, became more popular then the typical colonial gravestone during the middle of the 1800, metal was again employed.

All modern monuments should be installed on a solid concrete foundation. The foundation should be dug as deep as the frost line, depending on the locale. This would be about the same depth footings for residential construction is dug. In the Northeast this means footings should be at least 42 inches or more.

The word gravestone can imply varying things to different people.

Pertaining to the process of gravestone resetting, we are describing a one piece tablet stone. One piece tablets are monolithic, and are installed is setting them partially underground. The above ground section of stone, which we normally see, may be only one half of the gravestone total size.