Is there a time frame to wait before doing the monument?
The current burial process allows for solid ground to be left intact around the grave. This eliminates the need for any time delay. In the case where footings need extra support, we have piers dug and reinforced with extra steel to ensure the stability of the footing.
If we wanted to make a memorial with something special and a bit different, would you be able to do it?
We have designed and constructed many personalised monuments specifically addressing our client’s needs.
Would I be able to make a monument for myself in advance (reservations)?
We have designed and constructed many monuments where all future interns were still living.
Is there a variation of colour between the samples and the stone of the monument we build?
All our monuments are constructed from natural products. All natural products do vary. This is generally reflected in colour variations and consistencies as the mining location changes.
Is it possible to install the monument by myself?
All cemeteries have a list of approved monumental masons.
Am I restricted as to what monument I can build on the plot?
Each cemetery has designated areas that require specific sizes, heights, colours and styles of the monument.
Are there any restrictions on the type of monuments & sizes?
Yes, each cemetery has its own rules and regulations. The specific location of the plot in the cemetery will dictate what can be built in terms of sizes, heights, colour and style of monument.
How many interns can we have in the plot?
This depends on the cemetery and the location of the plot. Some cemeteries allow up to four coffins/caskets and up to nine ashes interns. It is important that this is discussed with the cemetery prior to the purchase of the plot. It is also important to remember when planning your first intern to remind the cemetery of the number of interns that you have allowed for that plot.
Is it required to make an appointment before coming to the office?
No, but it is advisable so that we can allocate time and a specialist staff member for your needs. This also ensures that we give you the full required attention in case we are double booked.
Where is the best place to have our first appointment with you?
It depends on what your requirements are, and we are very happy to determine with you whether it is in the office or out on site.
How long will it take to get a bronze plaque done?
Once we receive acceptance, payment and permit we place our order for the bronze plaque; and it generally takes eight weeks for the plaque to be cast.
Does weather affect the installation?
Yes, the weather does affect the installation. If it’s wet weather, it very much hinders our work.
How long will it take to build the monument?
Once the monument has landed in our yard, we generally attempt to have it constructed by the end of the following month.
What are inscriptions?
Inscriptions are writing that is carved into the headstone.
How long will it take to get the inscription done?
It generally takes eight weeks from your initial approval.
How are inscriptions made?
The chosen words are formed into a template, which is overlaid onto the headstone. Avalon then sandblasts the words into the stone. The inscription can then be finished with gilding or paint.
What is gilding?
Gilding is the process of adding a thin layer of gold or silver leaf to the inscriptions, so that the words will be formed in gold or silver.
Does it have to be gilded or painted?
No. Raw inscriptions can be made on black stone, as this is the only type where raw inscriptions look well.
Do you paint inscriptions instead?
Yes. We offer white, black or silver paint. If you would like a different colour, we need to see a colour swatch of the chosen shade.
Are you able to add inscriptions to existing monuments?
Yes. Once a design has been determined and a deposit paid, we will send our monument installers to sandblast and gild or paint on-site.
Do you match the writing style of previous inscriptions?
We do our best to create new inscriptions that match the style of previous inscriptions, but this isn’t always possible.
Do you offer raised lettering instead of engraving?
Yes. Once a letter design and the wording have been determined, we have the letters cast and affix them to the headstone with screws. We can create new designs or replace older metal that has lost its lustre.
How many words or letters can I have?
Avalon charges per character used, but spaces are not charged. A character is any form of alphanumerical punctuation, in any language. 90 characters is included as standard in most quotes.
Can I add pictures or emblems or insignia to a memorial?
Emblems, Insignia, pictures, or Ceramic photos can be added to monuments. A proof can be created to assess quality prior to ordering. Any subsequent proofs would require a fee.
Once the client has signed off, we order the image and frame (if chosen). The photo is only as good as the original that we work from. We prefer photos to be provided in JPEG format.
Can I design my own memorial?
For a fee, clients can come and work with our monument designer to create custom designs. Once a quote has been accepted and a deposit paid we start working on creating the memorial.
What is the process for creating a memorial?
We meet with our client to discuss memorial type, size, and material.
- A design is agreed upon. We send away to our stonemasons for quotes on the material required.
- A quote is then prepared for the client for the construction and installation of the memorial.
- The quote is accepted, revised, or rejected. Once a quote is accepted and a deposit paid, we order the stone and any ornaments.
- It takes approximately 16 weeks for stone to be delivered from our suppliers.
- It takes approximately 4 weeks from arrival for the memorial to be installed at the gravesite.
