M. Dempsey Services
restoring dignity
705-929-0769
[email protected]
Greater City of Sudbury
SPECIALIZING IN CEMETERY
MONUMENT RESTORATION & REPAIR:
leveling, straightening, cleaning,
foundation replacements and painting.
Monument
Restoration
DISASSEMBLE THE MONUMENT
Carefully take apart the existing structure. Inspect the foundation for damage.
EXCAVATE AND PREPARE THE BASE
Dig and fill the area with gravel for optimal drainage.
LEVEL THE GRADE
Ensure the ground is perfectly leveled to support the monument.
REASSEMBLE THE MONUMENT
Use monument setting putty to securely reassemble the structure.
CLEAN THE MONUMENT
Thoroughly clean each piece to help restore its original appearance.
GRASS SEED THE PLOT
Grass seed is laid on top of the plot to restore the landscape.
Concrete foundations are typically damaged from ground frost and get replaced with granite, as seen here .
Why Monuments Lean
Leaning headstones are both a safety concern and a disservice to the memory of our loved ones. Over time, gravestones can tilt for a number of reasons.
FROST SHIFTING
Frost cycles cause soil expansion and contraction, gradually shifting monuments over time.
FOUNDATION ISSUES
Concrete foundations may crack or settle, destabilizing the monument’s base.
OFFSET INSTALLATIONS
Installing a headstone with an offset on its base can lead to backward leaning.
CLAY SOIL
Clay lacks drainage properties, contributing to frostline shifts and monument tilting.
LEVER EFFECT
All monuments act as levers, eventually leaning despite proper care.
Remember that meticulous installation practices prolong monument integrity.
TYPES OF MARKERS
This section will explore the four most common types of cemetery stone markers and their components.
UPRIGHT MONUMENT
Upright monuments consist of three main components: the die, which is the engraved marker on top; the base, providing stability; and the foundation, which is installed flush with the ground and serves as the overall support structure.
BEVELED HEADSTONE
Beveled monuments are a variation of upright headstones. They feature a slanted or chamfered edge, creating an angled surface around the inscription area. They can be installed with or without a base but are always supported by a foundation.
SLANT HEADSTONE
A slant headstone is an upright grave marker with a slanted face. It’s shorter than other memorials and can be installed with or without a base. These monuments are always supported by a foundation.
FLAT MARKER
A flat marker is a small grave marker installed flush with the ground or on top of a foundation. They often sit flush at the foot of a grave and act as a simple addition to an existing upright monument but different varieties can also be installed on a foundation.
While monuments come in various types, shapes, sizes and materials, these four different granite examples make up the vast majority of grave markers commonly found in cemeteries.
FAQ
Our FAQ section provides clear answers to common questions about monument restoration and maintenance.
HOW LONG WILL A RESTORATION LAST?
When we restore a monument, our meticulous craftsmanship greatly improves the likelihood that your monument will stand straight for years to come. By addressing structural issues and ensuring proper water drainage under the monument, we safeguard your investment.
HOW LONG DOES A RESTORATION TAKE?
Our monument restoration process is efficient and timely. Restoration work is typically completed within one day, and once a contract is signed, we schedule restoration for approximately one week later.
IS MONUMENT RESTORATION EXPENSIVE?
Monument restoration costs can vary based on several factors. The size of the monument, its location, and whether it requires foundation replacement all play a role.
HOW ARE QUOTES PROVIDED?
Before providing a quote, we visit the monument’s plot to assess its condition, understand the restoration requirements, and tailor our services accordingly. This personalized approach ensures accurate pricing and a thorough restoration process.
WHY ARE GRANITE FOUNDATIONS SUPERIOR?
Granite foundations offer several advantages over concrete. They are exceptionally durable, withstand weathering and soil movement, and require minimal maintenance. Additionally, granite’s natural beauty enhances the visual appeal of monuments.
ARE FLAT MARKERS RESTORED DURING RESTORATION?
When we restore a monument, our comprehensive approach includes not only restoring the monument itself but also straightening and cleaning plot markers. This ensures a cohesive and harmonious appearance across the entire site.
If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact us. We’ll be happy to answer them.
About
Founded in 2023, M. Dempsey Services proudly stands as the City of Greater Sudbury's only dedicated cemetery monument restoration and repair service. We are committed to serving Sudbury and the surrounding areas with exceptional care and expertise. Our mission is to provide superior service at competitive prices, ensuring that you won't have to wait months for the quality restoration your monuments deserve. Choose us for prompt, professional, and affordable monument restoration.
Contact
To request a quote or to inquire
about our services, please send
us a message and we will respond
promptly. Thank you.