3 Things To Consider When Investing In A Granite Grave Headstone

Consisting of minerals such as quartz and feldspar, granite holds up well to the outdoor elements, resists chipping and cracking, and doesn't fade due to sun exposure as time goes on. Perhaps this is why it's such a popular material option for kitchen countertops. These attributes are also why granite is considered a great option for creating grave headstones. Here are some things to consider when deciding whether to invest in a granite grave headstone for yourself or a loved one:

Coloring

Granite comes in a variety of natural coloring options. Some feature specks of blue throughout, while others have gold streaks running through the material. Green and gray coloring is also popular among granite enthusiasts. This coloring is a result of how the minerals in the granite material interact with each other. The coloring is unique in each piece of granite that is cut from the quarry bed, so no two headstones ever look the same.

With this in mind, you should check out potential headstones in person so that you can see the unique coloring of each option up close and personal. This will help you determine exactly what type of coloring and design is embedded in each one so that you can choose one that best represents the personality and character of the person that the headstone is representing.

Maintenance

Granite is generally easy to maintain. The maintenance process requires no special skills or equipment, making it doable for people from all walks of life and with any experience level. All you have to do is clean the granite headstone you invest in with some soapy water whenever you're tired of seeing bird droppings, moss, and sap strewn all over it. Thoroughly drying the headstone immediately after you wash it will eliminate streaks and water stains.

It is important to keep in mind that even though maintenance is easy, it must be made a priority. If you don't bother cleaning the headstone throughout the years, it could become so soiled that even scrubbing with soapy water can't get all the dirt and bird droppings off. So, it's a good idea to go ahead and give the headstone a good wash two or three times a year even if it isn't too dirty at the time.

Offering Accommodations

If you anticipate that people will visit the headstone you're investing in often and leave offerings while there, it is important to consider where those offerings will go. People can always line flowers and other offerings up around the headstone, but the dirt and other elements on the ground can cause damage and create premature wear. Choosing a granite headstone that can accommodate offerings will help keep said offerings off the ground and keep them in good shape as time goes on. A headstone with lips that wrap around it is a great option.

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