Fixing Headstones

I am an independent letter cutter. Whilst retaining the adaptability to suit any headstone fixing technique, I do not belong to organisations such as BRAMM or NAMM. This can be restrictive, and I have never felt the need.

Preparing the ground in a churchyard for a headstone

Like most independent letter cutters, I normally install headstones using the traditional technique; that of placing between 25% and 30% of the total length underground. This method is opposed to the pin and plinth method, in which the headstone is set on a slab, usually made from the same material as the headstone; it is then held in position with a stainless steel rod penetrating the ground. It is my view that this does not look as elegant as the ‘in the ground’ method, it also make the maintenance of the levels difficult. Often about a year after a new headstone is introduced to a churchyard or cemetery, it loses its upright level and it has to be adjusted slightly. If the headstone is pinned or concreted into the ground, it makes this uprighting process difficult. The pin and plinth technique was introduced as a measure to combat the rogue mason who would not put enough of the memorial underground (less than 25%), causing the headstone to topple, but so long as the technique is carried out properly, there should be no problems. In fact there is now talk about a move away from the pin and plinth method. Departing the workshop for a ‘fixing’ expedition is always fun and often the best part of the headstone commissioning process. It is the moment when all our labours are finally put to the test, after all it’s not about what the headstone looks like in the workshop; it has to fit perfectly into its new surroundings. On arriving at the churchyard or cemetery, the ground is marked out and a hole is dug typically with a depth of 15” + 3” for the brick foundation. Two bricks are then fixed to the floor of the hole and tampered down to give a firm base. The headstone is then lowered in, checked for levels and then hole is then backfilled with the earth and clay. This is then stomped down to wedge the headstone in. The stone is then cleaned and photographed; at this point I stand back and make sure the headstone is perfect.

Posted on 11th January 2009 in Headstones