Questions to Ask at a Monument Showroom

Walking into a monument showroom for the first time can feel overwhelming. Bringing a list of questions helps you compare companies fairly and avoid surprises.

Price and what's included

• Does the price include engraving, delivery, foundation and installation?
• Are cemetery fees included?
• Are there taxes or extra charges?
• What deposit is required? See deposit and payment terms.

Granite and quality

• Where does the granite come from? See where granite comes from.
• Can I see real samples in daylight?
• How thick is the stone? See thickness guide.
• How is quality checked? See how to tell high-quality granite.

Process and timing

• How long until installation?
• Will I see a full proof before engraving? See proof approval checklist.
• Do you handle the cemetery permit?
• Do you know my cemetery's rules?

After installation

• What warranty do you offer? See warranty guide.
• Who fixes settling or chips?
• Can you add dates later, and what does it cost?
• Do you offer cleaning?

Bring these with you

Take the cemetery name and section, plot measurements if you have them, the full names and dates to be engraved, any photos or artwork you'd like included, and the cemetery's rules if you've already got them. Having these ready makes the first meeting far more productive and lets the company give an accurate quote. See how to measure a grave plot.

Key Takeaways

• Ask exactly what the price includes.
• See real granite samples in daylight.
• Confirm a full proof and permit handling.
• Get warranty and later-engraving costs in writing.

Next Step

See how to choose a monument company and how to compare quotes.