Buono Brothers Memorials

Frequently Asked Questions

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Do we need to wait for any length of time after a death before ordering a memorial?
The right time to order a memorial is a very personal decision. Some families chose to select the memorial at the same time they are making funeral arrangements. Other families need more time to make this lasting and important decision.  Often times, there are individuals who want to have their own arrangements made prior to their death so they won't burden their loved ones with these decisions. This is called a pre-need memorial.  The ‘right’ time to purchase a monument is based on the individual family.  Some may need a little more time than others to decide, and that is perfectly fine because of the personal nature of the decision.

 

Who installs the concrete foundation?
Each cemetery has different policies, so either the cemetery or Buono Bros. Memorials pours the foundation.

 

Does the foundation work affect delivery time?
The foundation work will affect the time of delivery depending on if we pour the foundation or if the cemetery does. If the foundation is not able to be poured before the winter months, you may have to wait until spring for the foundation and installation of your memorial. Most cemeteries have cut off dates, for example from October-March they may not allow foundations to be poured due to ground conditions, unless the weather has been very dry.

 

Does the headstone have to be removed to add a name on it?
If the add ons are sandblasted, the work can be done at the cemetery plot in summer months. We can also remove the stone from the cemetery to add a name or date on inside our shop during colder months. You do not want to sandblast the stone outside during winter months, due to the low temperatures causing cracks and damage on your memorial.

*If the monument has laser etched names and dates, it is required that we remove it from the cemetery to laser etch the additional information on at our shop. 

 

Doesn't the ground have to settle?
Some cemeteries require a waiting period after burial for the ground to settle before installing a foundation. If the weather has been wet, you will want to wait around 2 months before installing a foundation after burial. 

 

Can monuments be placed in cold weather?
Provided the foundation is installed before the frost, monuments can be placed in the cold weather.  You should make arrangements for your headstone at least 12 weeks before the desired installation time.

 

How long does it take to complete a memorial?
The length of time necessary to complete your memorial depends on the type of grave marker you choose, the color of granite that has been selected, the level of design work required, and the time of year that the order is placed.  Foundations may not be poured in the winter months, so a memorial ordered late in the year will be installed in the spring. If your monument is a custom cut, color, size, shape, etc. it may take longer to have the memorial completed. 

 

Why should I buy a memorial in advance?
Many families choose to plan their own final arrangements. This allows them to make their own decisions on the style and type of memorial that they wish to have. In addition, it alleviates some of the decision making of family members at the time of death.

 

How is the carving and design put on the stone?
Buono Bros. Memorials prides itself with its manufacturing process. Through various sandblast processes, your design is permanently engraved in your chosen style and color of stone. Our skilled craftsmen can duplicate any existing design or create a new personalized design made especially for your family. We also do laser etching in house. Our laser technician will work with you to create a design you love, and etch the memorial as per your approved proof.

 

If I want a special design, can you do it?
We pride ourselves in our ability to personalize each and every grave marker. When you sit down with one of our design specialists, they will help you design a very meaningful and personal memorial. We have thousands of design options to choose from, or we can accommodate your special requests.

 

Do all cemeteries allow the same type of memorial?
Cemeteries each have their own requirements for the size and type of headstone that they will allow per section and lot in the cemetery. We will help you contact the cemetery to determine what is allowed at your specific location and help you determine what type of monument will best memorialize your loved ones.

 

Can monuments be cleaned?
Most monuments can be cleaned like new, however stains such as spray paint, oil stains, candle wax residue and some other substances cannot be completely removed.  If exposed to inclement weather, fresh and artificial flowers leaning against your stone may leave colored blotches on the monument, so be careful when placing flowers, wreaths and candles on your grave.