How much do memorials cost today?

Many factors go into the development of a quality memorial. The main factors are: quality of the stock used, size, finish, lettering style, floral carving and cemetery fees specific to your cemetery. Today, simple memorials start around $450.00 while a family monument will range from $900.00 to $8000.00, complete with Lettering, Installation. It is not uncommon for more elaborate memorials to exceed $10,000.00.


What is a foundation?

A foundation is the underlying support, and must be constructed properly. Once filled with properly mixed concrete and allowed to cure it will support the memorial for many years. At Crume’s Monuments, we prefer to do our own foundations because we have the knowledge and the proper equipment to do them correctly.


Why is the concrete foundation so important?

The foundation must support the weight of the memorial and withstand the extremes of weather and temperature. An average family memorial can weigh nearly 2000 pounds.


When I visit the cemetery, why are some of the stones tipping or falling over?

Most often a poor foundation is to blame. The original person either didn't understand the importance of a good foundation or didn't care. Sometimes it is caused when a grave is opened for a burial. Being a full service monument company, we also remove and replace foundations when they no longer support the weight of the memorial.


Are arrangements made over the phone or in your office?

Many arrangements are made at our office but about 20 percent are made over the phone. When a customer visits our office, having over 300 different monuments of all shapes, colors and sizes is very helpful. We can offer our customers in-house custom design. Simple markers, lettering or duplication of an existing memorial can usually be handled over the phone. We also offer home appointments for those who find it difficult to visit our office.


With all the brochures and letters I received, how can I be sure to do business with the right company?

The company must be knowledgeable, professional and willing to take the time to listen to your needs. Anyone who calls you just a few days after the funeral or urges you to make a hasty decision, does not have your best interests in mind. At Crume’s Monuments, we believe that only you know when the time is right. We often encourage customers to postpone the selection when we find they are still grieving. A dealer interested only in quickly selling you a block of stone, needs only to know the size and price that you have in mind.