Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely not! You should never feel pressured by a funeral home or cemetery to purchase a memorial at such an emotional time. Wait until you're ready to make an informed decision. Take the time to visit different companies that create lasting memorials to understand the numerous options and work with a consultant who understands your wishes and budget.

You're correct. There are so many options of memorials to choose from and that's why Leeder Monuments recommends you wait for however long it takes after your loved one's funeral that you're comfortable to make such important decisions. Visit cemeteries to see the assortment of memorials, lettering, tribute messages, sizes and styles. When you have a better idea about what you want, visit a monument company where you can deal with a memorial consultant who will take the time to sit and discuss your needs. A monument is a lasting tribute to your loved one. There is no need to ever rush such an important decision.

Your monument company will have a thorough understanding of what local cemeteries will allow as far as the size or style of memorials. Most cemeteries have size restrictions and rules about lettering facing the grave and base stones colour matching the monument. Cemeteries also require a monument to be 6"-8" thick depending on the height.

Memorial gardens were created as park-like settings that would allow for easier maintenance but Canadian winters make it more difficult to locate snow covered graves. Many of these cemeteries have created or have plans to create new areas on the grounds that allow for upright memorials. Check with your memorial consultant who is fully knowledgeable about local cemeteries, what they allow and their future plans.

Just like wood, no two pieces of granite are the same. Granite comes from all over the word and different parts of the world have different types and colours of granite. Much of the granite used by monument companies today comes from overseas - countries like China, India and Brazil - because it's less expensive. Leeder Monuments only sells number one first quality granite made up of small crystals with a close grain. We use only consistent source for our clear stock otherwise we wouldn't be able to offer a high quality guaranteed product for our customers.

Good granite does not fade or discolour over time. Don't be afraid to ask your monument company about its quality guarantees. There is a difference between good and bad granite. Using a good quality granite will allow your memorial to last hundreds, perhaps thousands, of years.

The memorial creation process can vary, depending on your specific wishes. Leeder Monuments currently has over 400 monuments on site. If you choose one currently in stock and don't require custom graphics, the etching of a name and dates can be done within a reasonable time frame. If you require us to order a specific style or colour, the delivery can take several months. If you would like to work with our graphic designer on a custom sketch, the artistic process takes time. Once your memorial is complete, the foundation must be installed before the monument is erected. Concrete foundations don't set in below freezing temperatures so it's impossible to complete during winter months.

The foundation is an extremely important part of the memorial. It must reach deep enough to ensure it's below frost levels so no movement occurs at different times of the year. The foundations reach down 5 feet and are usually the same size as the base stone. Some cemeteries also require a concrete border that extends 3-4 inches out from all four sides.

You don't have to spend thousands and thousands of dollars for a beautiful and lasting memorial. Set your budget before you even walk through the door. Leeder Monuments' memorial consultants actually prefer to know what your family is willing to spend before beginning the process of selecting a style, size and colour of monument. We will work with you to create a memorial that properly reflects your loved one's life.