Why should I purchase a monument from Gingrich Memorials vs. another dealer?
Gingrich Memorials, established in 1921, has been an independently-run family business with 98 years of experience in the monument business. We use only the highest quality materials and employ only the highest skilled craftsmen and designers to assist you with your monument needs. By doing all the work ourselves, we control how the finished monument will look and ensure it is installed to your complete satisfaction. We have established excellent relationships with our suppliers, the granite quarries and bronze foundries throughout the world, to give you highest quality granite and bronze at competitive prices.
What do I need to know when purchasing a monument?
It is best to have the cemetery information with you when shopping for the monument. The section name or number and number of plots of the grave site will dictate the size and type of monument permitted. If this information is unclear, your Gingrich representative will assist you with the process.
How do I know what type of monuments my cemetery allows?
Our years of experience allow us first-hand knowledge of the cemetery rules and regulations, which are kept up to date.
How long does it take for a monument to be set at the grave site from design to installation?
It generally takes 8-12 weeks for the process to be completed. Some imported granite may take 4-6 months based on availability. Weather and delays with cemeteries who install their own foundations may impact installation.
Can you match the design on another monument?
Yes, we go through many steps to match existing monuments. We will visit the cemetery, make a rubbing of the stone, measure its exact dimensions and take photographs of the existing monument in order to replicate it. Once the design is made, it is sent to the customer for approval.
Do you have a showroom?
Yes, We currently have seven showroom locations throughout Central Pennsylvania to service your memorial needs.
Can monuments be designed in languages other than English?
Yes, we can make monuments in any language you need. (Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, Hebrew etc.)
The cemetery also sells monuments and said I must buy from them. Is that true?
No. If you been told that, it is a violation of free trade and you can file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.
Does the cemetery have to accept a headstone from an outside vendor?
Yes, as long as the headstone meets their specifications.
Why do I need to purchase a foundation with my monument?
Cemeteries require concrete foundations to be placed under monuments in order to prevent the monuments from sinking into the ground.
How deep are foundations?
Foundations must go deep enough to be below the frost line. Different cemeteries require different depths; When we install foundations we go 24 inches deep.
How are foundations priced?
Foundations are priced according to the cemetery. If the cemetery installs their own foundations then they have their own pricing. Many cemeteries allow monument dealers to install the foundations for their clients. Gingrich Memorials installs foundations for a set price based on square inches.
Are foundations installed year round?
Foundations can only be installed when the ground is not frozen. If we install the foundations we will install all year around if the weather permits. Some cemeteries that install their own foundations may only install foundations twice a year: once in the spring and once in the fall.
Can I pre-purchase a headstone?
Yes. This will ensure your wishes or those of a relative are carried out. As costs for materials keep rising, pre-purchasing a monument can conserve your estate now, and save loved ones from the worry of such an expense at the time of need. It also makes the grieving process easier for loved ones by simplifying the funeral process.
What is the difference between pre-need and at-need when purchasing a monument?
An at-need is purchased at the time of a person’s death. A pre-need is purchased when one or both of the persons are still living.