What We Offer
Big Country Monuments provides gravestones and monuments in Central New York. We offer design, installation, engraving, cleaning, and repair services. Our process includes a consultation, custom design, and approval before installation.
We bring care and passion to each and every memorial we have the privilege to create. Contact us to create a lasting memorial for your loved one.
-
Let us help you find the perfect design for your loved one’s memorial. Learn more.
-
We take the time to ensure the design we create on the computer is replicable in granite. Learn more about etching.
-
Proper installation is key to lasting monuments. Learn more.
-
We can help add the final engraving to your memorial. Learn more.
-
Cleaning monuments is a job that requires plenty of elbow grease, let us help! Learn more.
-
Restoration of memorials makes them like new. Let our expert team help restore your monument to its original state. Learn more.
Gravestone and Monument Design
At Big Country Monuments, we understand that this is a difficult time, and we're here to support you in any way we can. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized service that honors the memory of your loved one.
“My job is to make your family’s monument as personal as it can possibly be while making sure that all the design work we do on the computer is reproducible in granite.” – Jeff
We know that every detail matters, and we'll work closely with you to ensure that everything is done according to your wishes and preferences. From the initial planning stages to the final farewell, we're committed to providing a seamless and meaningful experience that brings you comfort and peace of mind.
You can trust us to handle every aspect with the utmost care and respect, as this is our final service to your loved one, and we're dedicated to doing it perfectly.
Headstone Engraving and Etchings: Where Artistry Meets Eternity
Our headstone etching service is where your chosen design truly comes to life in the enduring beauty of granite. With over two decades of experience in both headstone etching and design, we possess the expertise and knowledge to ensure that the final result is a fitting and lasting tribute.
We understand the importance of precision and craftsmanship in this delicate process, and we are committed to delivering a headstone that honors the memory of your loved one with dignity and respect.
Monument Installation
The monument installation process at the cemetery is crucial, and at Big Country, Jeff and one of his sons personally oversee every installation. Jeff's meticulous attention to detail, honed from his contracting business, is a valuable asset in the monument business.
The first step in the installation process is to inspect the foundation poured by the cemetery. Unfortunately, most cemeteries don't pour a flat foundation, which necessitates the use of lead shims between the granite base and the concrete foundation. Lead is the ideal shim material due to its malleability and strength.
Once the granite base is set, the granite monument, complete with all the inscription information, is installed on the base, ensuring that the reveals are even at the front and back.
A setting compound and spacers are used between the base and the monument to prevent the weight of the monument from crushing the setting compound. This is where many monument installers rush the job. Even with spacers, the compound continues to push out for about 10 minutes. Many installers don't wait those additional few minutes to make the final trim cut for a neat finish.
Cemetery Engraving
The final engraving process requires meticulous attention to detail and is completed in several key stages:
Information Gathering: The initial step involves collecting information regarding the monument and its precise location. This includes details about the specific text to be engraved, the desired font and size, and any other relevant design elements.
Site Visit and Rubbings: In certain cases, where matching existing engravings is crucial, a visit to the monument site may be necessary. During the site visit, rubbings of the current engraving are taken to ensure that the new inscription perfectly complements the existing work in terms of style, size, and spacing.
Stencil Creation: Using the gathered information and rubbings, a precise stencil is meticulously cut. This stencil serves as a guide for the engraving process, ensuring accuracy and consistency in the final inscription.
Scheduling and Efficiency: To optimize time and resources, the actual engraving work is scheduled strategically. Often, this involves grouping multiple engraving jobs together to fully utilize a full day of work for the engraving team and equipment.
By following these steps and employing skilled craftsmanship, the final engraving is executed with precision and artistry, resulting in a lasting tribute that honors the memory of loved ones and preserves their legacy for generations to come.
Monument Cleaning
Big Country provides mobile monument cleaning services for any local cemetery. We use La's Totally Awesome, a mild cleansing product, and a variable pressure washer (up to 3800 psi) to deep clean monuments.
If you prefer to do it yourself, La's Totally Awesome can be found at most local dollar stores. In addition to the cleaning product, you'll need plenty of water for rinsing, a couple of stiff bristle brushes, and plenty of elbow grease.
Gravestone Monument Foundation Restoration
Monument foundations are crucial for the stability and longevity of monuments, memorials, and headstones. A sturdy foundation ensures that the monument remains upright and secure, preserving its integrity over time. Proper foundation installation involves preparing the ground, creating a level base, and using suitable materials to support the weight of the monument.
Restoring monument foundations is essential when they become damaged or compromised due to various factors such as ground movement and weather conditions. Restoration typically involves repairing or replacing cracked or damaged foundation components, re-leveling the monument, and reinforcing the base to ensure stability.
By addressing foundation issues promptly, we prevent further damage, maintain the structural integrity of the monument, and preserve its historical and sentimental value for generations to come.
Before and After
Honoring American Values
We believe in America. Therefore we encourage you to buy American granite. However certain colors are not available in America - At your appointment you can note highlighted products that are specifically American-Made only.