What is a flat marker?

A flat memorial is the most common type of memorial. They are also referred to as markers, flats, headstones, footstones or grass markers, as they are installed flat into the ground. They are most commonly about 3-4 inches thick and can have a wide range of widths and lengths.

Are flat markers cost-effective?

Yes. Flat grave markers are the most cost-effective granite memorial as they are often smaller than Uprights and do not require a base or foundation.

Why do you use granite for monuments?

Granite is the most common material used for cemetery memorials for it's durability.
The material can withstand extreme weather conditions and will maintain its integrity for generations, making it excellent for cemeteries. Granite is also easier for engraving, and provides a beautiful contrast for the text and designs.

What is an Upright Monument?

An Upright Monument is the second most common type of memorial. They are also referred to as headstones, tombstones or monuments. Most commonly, they are placed on a base that sits on top of a foundation. In the larger city cemeteries, the foundations are often prepared and provided by the cemetery. In rural cemeteries, it is more common for the customers or monument companies to provide the foundation.

How do I install them?

Flat markers are most commonly placed flush with the grass. This is accomplished by digging a hole then placing the marker flush and level. Flat markers can also be placed on a foundation, sitting proud.

Installation of Upright monuments is a bit more work. Safe installation often requires a picker crane, specialized hand wheeler and two people. A foundation will be needed as well to prevent subsidence or sinking and can be precast granite or concrete. Most commonly, the foundations are 8" wider and 8" deeper than the base to provide a 4" surround and they are usually 4" thick.

The base will be installed on top of the foundation and small amounts of putty are placed underneath the base to ensure it doesn't move. If the foundation isn't level, shims may be required to ensure the base is level. Once the base is placed, the upright will be mounted on top of the base. Apply an epoxy adhesive to the base before setting the upright down. Once positioned correctly, it is recommend to apply a silicone seal around the edges of the upright to prevent water from getting underneath. You can trim the access silicon with a putty knife.

Prairie Flat Memorials does not provide installation services. You will be required to coordinate installation on your own or with a local monument company.

How do you engrave granite?

Prairie Flat Memorials uses a traditional practice for engraving called sandblasting. Sandblasting uses a jet of sand driven by compressed air to remove the polish from the granite’s surface. By doing so, it exposes the contrast between the polished surface and the unpolished layers of the granite. Up to four shades or tones can be created on black granite using different sandblasting techniques, which enables the creation of beautiful designs.

For a double monument, how does the date of passing get added?

Added inscriptions are a common practice in the monument industry and are typically done onsite at the cemetery. Contact a local monument company to help you.

Can I provide my designs to engrave on the marker?

Our design team has created an online customization process that will eliminate human error and ensure the memorial will look exactly how the customer has designed it. Due to this, we have intentionally offered pre-designed templates of proven designs that engrave beautifully onto the granite. We are not permitting the use of custom designs, as in some cases, designs that look good on paper do not translate well onto granite when engraved.

What do I do if my name doesn't fit?

If you notice that the name you’re entering isn’t fitting, try selecting a different template or go up in size.

Will the final product match the template I've created?

Yes it will. Our design team have created a selection of beautiful templates that will translate almost identically onto the granite. Restrictions have been incorporated into the design tool to ensure that the final product will fit the size of the marker and be clear and legible. If the final product does not match your template, please refer to our Refund Policy.

Do you ship to all locations in Canada?

Yes we do! Prairie Flat Memorials will ship all over Canada. Free shipping ONLY applies to BC, AB, SK & MB. Additional charges may be incurred for remote locations or Provinces/Territories outside of the aforementioned. Please refer to our Shipping Policy for more information.

When will I receive my marker after I purchase it?

In 2 WEEKS or less! Our company understands the frustration of waiting 6 months to a year for a memorial. We have structured our delivery service to ensure that your marker will arrive to your shipping address within 2 weeks of purchase. You will receive a notification email once shipping has been booked with one of our carriers.

Who will install the memorial?

You are responsible for arranging the installation of your monument. We do not provide installations for memorials. Please note that some cemeteries' do all of their own installations and will require you to arrange delivery with them. Be sure to ask about your cemetery’s procedures for installing markers prior to ordering.

Is it necessary to purchase a memorial even if the person is cremated?

As cremation is becoming more common, cemeteries are increasingly adding space to their cremation sections. In many cases, cremated remains are interred in the ground similar to a traditional burial. The placement of a marker is done the same way as a traditional burial. A marker is often permitted on cremation plots.