Headstones are designed to stand the test of time. But even the best quality structures eventually show signs of wear and tear. Leaving them neglected for too long could lead to damage that becomes dangerous to visitors and cemetery staff alike.
Sadly, many families don’t realize this until it’s too late. If you suspect your headstone is unsafe, we’ll discuss scenarios where this might be the case and what a cemetery might do if it thinks your structure needs repairs or a full replacement.
What Makes a Headstone Unsafe?
Many elements can make a headstone unsafe, such as:
- Structural instability
- Shifting foundations
- Cracks weakening the stone
- Severe leaning
- Weather-related damages
- Uneven foundation
- Visible separation between pieces
There are many reasons why headstones become hazardous over time. From extreme temperatures to storms, everything adds up and chips away at a monument’s condition. These damages might seem minor, but they can become a cause for concern if left unattended for long enough.
This is why getting your loved one’s headstone cleaned and inspected by a professional is a non-negotiable. They’ll check for any structural issues and prevent damage before it happens.
Are Older Headstones More At Risk?
Yes, older headstones are almost always more at risk for having structural issues due to years of being exposed to the elements. Over time, these issues can weaken a structure’s foundation and lead to further problems. For example, an unstable memorial could fall over and potentially injure cemetery staff or visitors nearby.
That said, always handle even minor issues, like cracks, as soon as you see them. Waiting it out could make things worse and create other serious safety issues in the future.
What A Cemetery Might Do If a Memorial Becomes Unsafe
Restrict Memorial Access
If a memorial poses a risk, the cemetery staff start by limiting access to it until it’s fixed. These measures are to protect visitors and workers in the area, especially if the headstone could fall at any moment.
Install Safety Measures
Cemetery staff might also install temporary fixes, such as support braces or protective barriers, to keep the structure upright. In other cases, they’ll lay it flat if it’s really unstable to prevent further damage. All of these serve as precautionary steps until you restore the structure.
Remove The Headstone
If the structural damage is way too deep, the cemetery might remove the monument altogether. This is especially true if the structure can’t be stabilized on site. The removal is usually done until you do the necessary repairs or replace the structure entirely. Every cemetery has specific policies regarding removal, so always consult them beforehand to avoid any surprises later on.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Are you and your family noticing any structural damage on your loved one’s headstone? Addressing these issues early could save you and your family from more extensive repairs and safety risks later on. It’s also another way to honor and respect your loved one’s legacy, even years after they passed.
At Eternal Memorials, we help grieving families across Long Island, New York City, and beyond with monument cleaning, restoration, and repairs to ensure their loved one’s headstone stays intact for years. If you have more questions about our services, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 631-755-1200 anytime.