0% APR Up To 24 Months* | Talk With A Specialist Today

100,000+ Customers Served

Yellow rating star | EternityHeadstones

Reviews

Desktop Banner | EternityHeadstonesMobile Banner | EternityHeadstones

Planning a Headstone: When to Order and How to Care for It Once It's Placed

Choosing a headstone is one of the last things you do for someone you loved, and it's natural for it to feel heavy — both because of what it represents and because there's rarely a clear sense of how the process actually works. Unlike most purchases, there's no single "right" timeline, and the stone itself isn't something you store away until you're ready to use it. It's placed at the gravesite once it's complete, and then it stays there, weathering the years the way the person it honors would have wanted to be remembered: permanently, and with care.

Here's what's helpful to know about timing, the ordering process, and how to look after a headstone once it's been placed.

01. There's No Required Timeline: One of the most reassuring things families learn is that there's no rule requiring a headstone to be placed right away. Most cemeteries allow a temporary marker to hold the space for months, sometimes longer, while a family takes the time they need. If you're still in the early, acute stages of grief, it's completely alright to wait. A permanent decision made with a clearer mind is almost always one you'll feel more at peace with later.

That said, many families find that having something concrete to plan does help — a sense of forward motion in the middle of a difficult time. There's no wrong answer here. Some people are ready within weeks; others take a year or more. Both are normal.

03. What Affects the Ordering Timeline: Once you do feel ready, a few practical things shape how long the process takes from the first decision to the headstone being placed:
04. Cemetery approval comes first: Every cemetery has its own rules about size, material, and design, and most require approval before a headstone can be installed.

Checking these rules early — ideally before you finalize a design — helps avoid delays later in the process.

06. Custom design and engraving take time: A headstone is one of the most personal things a family will ever choose, and that level of customization, especially for detailed artwork, portraits, or unique shapes, naturally takes longer to produce than a simpler design. If you're working with a custom shape or an inscription you want to get exactly right, build in extra time for the design and proofing stage.
07. You'll typically review a proof before production begins: Most suppliers send a digital proof for you to review and approve before the stone is actually carved. Take the time you need here — this is the step where wording, spacing, and any imagery get finalized, and it's worth reviewing carefully rather than rushing through it.
08. Shipping and installation are the final steps: Once the stone is complete, it still needs to be shipped and properly installed at the cemetery, which can add additional time depending on the cemetery's own scheduling and any seasonal weather delays.

Taken together, it's wise to expect the full process — from final decision to the headstone actually being placed — to take a number of weeks rather than days. If there's a date you're hoping to have the stone in place by, such as an anniversary or a memorial gathering, it's worth starting the process well ahead of that date rather than close to it.

010. Caring for a Headstone Once It's Placed: A headstone doesn't get put away or stored — it stands at the gravesite, exposed to weather and time, for generations. A little regular care helps it stay legible and dignified for as long as it's meant to last.
011. Clean it gently and occasionally: Mild soap and water with a soft brush is generally enough to clear dirt, debris, or light staining. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbing, which can damage the surface or the engraving over time.
012. Check on it periodically: A simple visit to look for shifting, settling, or any developing wear lets you catch small issues — a loosening foundation, accumulating debris — before they become bigger ones.
013. Be mindful of what's placed nearby: Flowers, decorations, and mementos are a meaningful part of visiting, but it's worth keeping an eye on anything that might trap moisture against the stone over long periods.
014. Know who to call if something needs attention: If you ever notice damage or an issue with the stone itself, most suppliers, including the one you ordered from, can help with repairs or adjustments rather than requiring you to start over.
015. A Final Thought: There's no version of this process that isn't difficult, because of what it represents rather than anything about the process itself. Taking the time you need, understanding what shapes the timeline, and knowing how to care for the stone once it's placed are simply the practical pieces that sit alongside something much larger: choosing how someone you loved will be remembered, for as long as that memorial stands.

Frequently Asked Questions

At Eternity Headstones, we offer a diverse range of headstones, including classic upright monuments, flat markers, slant markers, and custom-designed memorials. Each type is crafted with care to ensure a lasting and respectful tribute to your loved one.

Choosing the right headstone involves considering the size, style, and material that best honor your loved one’s memory. Factors to consider include cemetery regulations, desired inscriptions, and personal design preferences. Our team is here to help guide you through the selection process to ensure a fitting and meaningful tribute. For personalized assistance, reach out to us at sales@eternityheadstones.com.

Our headstones are crafted from premium granite, marble, and bronze materials. Each material is selected for its durability, beauty, and ability to withstand the elements, ensuring a lasting memorial that stands the test of time.

To maintain your headstone, regular cleaning with mild soap and water is recommended. Avoid abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that could damage the surface. For stone headstones, keep them free of debris and periodically inspect them for signs of wear. Follow any specific care instructions provided to keep your headstone in excellent condition.

Yes, we specialize in custom headstones tailored to your unique specifications. Whether you have a specific design in mind or need assistance creating a personalized tribute, our team can craft a headstone that reflects the individuality of your loved one. From custom engravings to unique shapes and sizes, we are dedicated to providing a meaningful and distinctive memorial.

Eternity Headstones stands out for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. We combine traditional artistry with modern techniques to create headstones that meet the highest durability and aesthetic appeal standards. Our focus on environmental responsibility means we use sustainable materials and ethical production practices. Additionally, our dedication to customer satisfaction ensures a seamless purchasing experience and reliable support.

Ordering from Eternity Headstones is simple through our easy-to-navigate website. Select the type and size of the headstone you need, then proceed to checkout. We offer various shipping options to suit your needs, and our customer support team is available to assist with any questions. For help with your order, contact us at sales@eternityheadstones.com.

If you experience any issues with your headstone, such as damage or an improper fit, please contact our customer support team at sales@eternityheadstones.com as soon as possible. We are committed to resolving any problems promptly, including offering repairs, replacements, or adjustments to ensure your headstone meets your expectations. For more details, visit our Returns/Refund Policy Page.

Footer logo image | EternityHeadstones

Eternity Headstones specializes in creating crafting magnificent headstones that are intended to be eternal memorials to loved ones.

© 2026 ETERNITY HEADSTONES All rights reserved.

Visa | EternityHeadstones
Mastercard | EternityHeadstones
Discover card | EternityHeadstones
American Express card | EternityHeadstones
PayPal  | EternityHeadstones
Secure credit card| EternityHeadstones