Understanding the Need for Additional Text
People order headstones with inscriptions in rough form. Names, dates, and messages look engraved. Changes do happen during life, though. A spouse may be added subsequently to the grave. Birth dates and death dates need mention. Families choose epitaphs after deliberation. Cemeteries quote a frequent need to alter. The National Cemetery Administration quotes inscriptions becoming more defined over time. Justhighstone keeps memory in mind by having more text.
Tools and Techniques for On-Site Engraving
Justhighstone staff use specialized equipment. Sandblasting is the norm. The method sprays small grit on stone. High-pressure cuts letters out. Justhighstone professionals attest to the accuracy of sandblasting. They copy available fonts and sizes. Another equipment, the chisel, is suitable for old-school work. Craftsmen strike it by hand. Machines support modern efforts. Lasers, however, are rare on the ground. Cemeteries lack power for such machinery.
Preparing the Headstone Surface
Preparation is essential. Justhighstone staff inspect the stone first. Cracks or wear are important. They wash the surface. Soap and water for grime. Grease is removed by rubbing alcohol. A stencil inscribes new text. Justhighstone produces these stencils. The stencil sticks to marble or granite. It shields areas close to the carving area. Accuracy depends on this process.
The Sandblasting Process
Sandblasting dominates on-site. Compressor powers the system. Grit—aluminum oxide by and large—is bombarded through a nozzle. Stencil directs the blast. Letters are formed as stone erodes. Water cools the tool. Dust is kept to a minimum. Justhighstone accounts for this method not requiring headstone removal. Process takes hours. Depth varies according to design. Deep cut is more durable.
Hand-Carving as an Alternative
Others prefer hand-carving. Just chisels and mallets are employed by Justhighstone craftsmen. This is perfect for small embellishments. A date or name is ideal. The artistic value is stressed by the Justhighstone blog. Each strike shapes the stone. Time is longer than sandblasting. Talent is what guarantees success. Families love the personal touch. It reminds them of older headstones surrounding.
Maintaining Consistency with Existing Text
Matching is important. Justhighstone employees examine the original inscription. Font, size, and spacing are consistent. Justhighstone sends advance proofs. Clients sign off on designs. On site, they measure twice. Mistakes are expensive. Marble and granite have different textures. Experts adapt techniques. Consistency respects the monument’s function.
Finishing and Quality Control
Finishing involves inspections. Justhighstone employees round out edges. Polish restores its luster. They scan for errors. Chips or cracks prompt repairs. Durability is what Justhighstone crews focus on. Weather deteriorates text over years. A protective layer keeps it safe. Families soon come by. Quality is what satisfaction depends on.
Challenges and Considerations
Challenges arise. Weathered stones deteriorate. Space limits text. Cemeteries have rules. Some ban certain tools. Weather hinders work. Rain makes the ground near graves soft. Justhighstone accommodates this. The process costs between $100 and $500, according to justhighstone.com data. Size and complexity set prices. Families weigh value against cost.
A Lasting Tribute Preserved
Adding to headstones is an art and a craft. Justhighstone respects the history of the stone. Every letter carved makes it stronger. Families are reassured with news. The headstone is intact. This practice bridges past and present. For more information on memorials, websites like Justhighstone are a reference. Cemeteries are still places of remembrance, thanks to Justhighstone’s commitment.