Davis Memorials is a long established family run business that specialises in creating the perfect memorial for your departed loved one following a cremation or burial.
Choosing the right gravestone, headstone or memorial so that it lasts as a fitting tribute to your loved one is an important decision and we will sensitively help you to choose or design the most suitable grave stone so that it keeps their memory alive.
With a large selection of high quality granite, marble, slate or sandstone gravestones and designs to choose from you can be rest assured that our craftsmanship is second to none. Using traditional hand-carved lettering techniques we will beautifully craft your selected gravestone inscription to your precise requirements. We use traditional techniques such as in-laid lettering on marble and raised letters on granite that many memorial companies no longer use and we are proud of the workmanship we display in every gravestone we create.
We provide a caring, expert service to our clients and we will ensure that every aspect of your loved one’s grave memorial is attended to with the utmost care and sensitivity.
For more information about our wide range of gravestones and to discuss your requirements in more detail please do not hesitate to contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gravestones
What is the difference between a gravestone, headstone and memorial?
Today, the two terms are often used interchangeably. Historically, a headstone is an upright memorial that is placed at the head of the grave, while a gravestone is a large stone slab covering the whole burial plot. A memorial is an overarching term that refers to all objects and markers honouring a person’s life.
What material is best for a gravestone?
Many cemeteries will have restrictions on the choice of stone, and this will typically be restricted to granite, marble or sandstone. Some will also allow slate gravestones. Granite is widely considered to be the most durable and will not suffer the effects of weathering in the same way as marble and sandstone, but there is something very elegant about these choices that draws many people to these options regardless.
Can I customise the inscription on a gravestone?
Yes, we encourage you to make your gravestone inscription personal to you and your family. Take your time to decide on the wording, the script and any additional decorative elements you would like to see. We can help to guide you and offer advice and support to help design a fitting tribute to your loved one.
Why is hard-carved lettering best for a gravestone?
Hard-carved lettering is the most popular choice for gravestones as the deep, dimensional cuts offer superior legibility and durability. The deep V-cut method of hand carving will cast shadows to make the script even more legible. It’s also much more resistant to weathering. There is also a timeless appeal of the craftsmanship that goes into a hard-carved gravestone.
How long does it take to create and install a gravestone?
This all depends on your choice of materials and your chosen design. There are also likely to be restrictions on how long you have to wait before you can place your gravestone at the grave site. Many cemeteries have a restriction period of around 2-6 months to give the ground time to settle, which helps to avoid your gravestone leaning or collapsing.
Can you help my family to design a bespoke gravestone?
Yes, we can guide you through this incredibly difficult process with care and consideration. Designing a beautiful tribute to your loved one can be an important part of the grieving process. We encourage you to take your time with this decision, to ensure that the finished result is something that brings you comfort for years to come.
How durable are granite, marble, slate and sandstone gravestones?
Granite is the most durable choice for a gravestone, but even this hard stone will still require occasional cleaning to help remove stains and organic matter. Marble and sandstone are the most likely to suffer the effects of weathering, as they are notably softer stones and more porous. They are more susceptible to damage from acid rain, pollution and severe weathering. If you like the appearance of marble but want something more durable, an option like a white granite could offer the ideal compromise.