FAQ’s
Q. How can I purchase a Headstone ?
A. By telephoning Hughes Carlow, where our experienced staff will assist you through the entire process. Alternatively you can send us an enquiry through the contact us section of our website.
Q. What interaction is required with the Cemetery ?
A. At Hughes Carlow we will apply to the Cemetery Authorities for the permit to erect a Headstone on your behalf. No interaction with the Cemetery is required by you. In some cases a foundation fee or application fee may apply. Not all cemeteries require planning permission.
Q. What happens when the permit comes through ?
A. When a Cemetery Authority grants permission to erect a Headstone we will immediately instruct our Stonemasons to prepare your Headstone. We will advise you when permission has been received and of the approximate date the Headstone will be erected.
Cemeteries take varying degrees of time to process a permit. We have no control over this.
Q. How soon after a burial can I erect a Headstone ?
A. It really depends on the individual. A headstone and surround that do not interfere with the grave can be erected immediately. It is best however to let a grave settle for roughly eight months before doing any work on that area. A Lawn Cemetery allows a Headstone to be erected as soon as you wish.
Q. How long does it take to erect a Headstone ?
A. Once permission has been granted by the Cemetery Authority we can normally erect the Headstone within a period of three to six weeks.
Q. Can I have kerbing as outlined in many of your photographs ?
A. Yes, provided the Cemetery Authorities allow. We will advise on the kerbing most appropriate to your Headstone.
Q. Can I select engravings on my Headstone ?
A. Yes. At Hughes Carlow we have a wide variety of religious and other engravings available which we can discuss with you.
Q. Can I select a Headstone not in your brochure that I have seen in a Cemetery ?
A. Yes. We will visit the Cemetery where you have seen the Headstone and discuss exactly what you require.
Q. Can I include chippings on the burial plot ?
A. As part of our overall service we will provide chippings on the burial plot including a concrete or PVC covering.
Q. Will you assist with the Inscription on the Headstone ?
A. Of course. We will advise as to whether gold leaf, silver, black, white or lead lettering is the most appropriate for the Headstone you have selected.
We will advise on the composition and layout of the Inscription or verse that is suitable and appropriate, always considering that space may be required on the Headstone for future additional Inscriptions.
Q. Can you provide additional Inscriptions after future burials ?
A. Yes. We recommend that one of our Stonemasons visit the Cemetery to inspect the Headstone and advise on the style and layout of the additional Inscription.
Whatever the lettering style, our craftsmen will be able to add your chosen Inscription so that it complements the original.
Q. Can I put a photograph on the Headstone ?
A. Yes. We will require a copy of the photograph. This will be used to prepare a ceramic photograph which will then be placed on your Headstone.
Q. Does the Headstone require future maintenance?
A. All natural materials including granite (unless polished) that are placed outdoors are susceptible to the elements. You can however expect your Headstone to be in pristine condition for several years.
If the need arises we offer a complete renovation and repair service to ensure your Headstone is restored to its original condition.
We will inspect your Headstone and advise whether it requires cleaning and/or if the existing Inscription requires repainting.
Q. What type of lettering can I have on my selected Headstone ?
A. The majority of modern fonts can be used.
Q. Are all the Headstones detailed in your website suitable for Lawn Cemeteries ?
A. No. Some Lawn Cemeteries have width and height restrictions; we will advise in each instance.