5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Headstone in Utah

Buying a headstone is a deeply personal decision — and often one that happens during a very emotional time. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially with so many choices and cemetery rules to consider. At Richfield Monuments, we’ve helped hundreds of Utah families avoid common pitfalls when selecting a memorial for their loved one.

To help you make the best decision, here are the 5 most common mistakes to avoid when buying a headstone in Utah — and how to make the process smoother.

1. Not Checking Cemetery Rules First

Before choosing a headstone design, always check with the cemetery where the headstone will be placed. Different cemeteries in Utah have specific rules regarding:

• Allowed materials (e.g., granite vs. marble)

• Headstone dimensions

• Flat vs. upright markers

• Color restrictions

• Placement timelines

Why it matters:
If your headstone doesn’t meet cemetery guidelines, you may be forced to redesign or replace it, costing you more time and money.

✅ Tip: Richfield Monuments works directly with Utah cemeteries to ensure compliance before production even begins.

2. Underestimating the Total Cost

Many families only consider the price of the headstone itself and forget to factor in:

• Engraving fees

• Installation costs

• Cemetery foundation charges

• Optional elements like vases or portraits

Why it matters:
Surprise costs can add stress during an already difficult time. In Utah, the total cost for a headstone typically ranges from $1,000 to $4,000, depending on material, size, and design.

✅ Tip: Always ask for a detailed quote upfront. Richfield Monuments offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

3. Choosing the Wrong Material for Utah’s Weather

Utah’s climate can be tough — freezing winters, intense sun, and dry summers. Not all headstone materials hold up equally.

• Granite is the most durable and weather-resistant choice.

• Marble, while beautiful, is more prone to weathering and erosion over time.

Why it matters:
A poor material choice may lead to faster fading, cracking, or discoloration.

✅ Tip: Stick with high-grade granite for long-term durability, which is what we specialize in at Richfield Monuments.

4. Skipping Customization Options That Add Meaning

While simplicity can be beautiful, skipping personalization may mean missing the chance to truly honor your loved one’s memory.

Examples of meaningful customization:

• Custom inscriptions or quotes

• Religious symbols or emblems

• Laser-etched portraits

• Color accents or decorative carvings

Why it matters:
A personalized headstone becomes a lasting legacy — not just a marker.

✅ Tip: At Richfield Monuments, we help you design headstones that are as unique as the person you’re remembering. We can add customization options later – even at the cemetery, call us with questions and for pricing information.

5. Waiting Too Long to Order

It’s common for families to wait several months before ordering a headstone, but keep in mind:

• Production time can take 4–8 weeks or more

• Cemetery schedules for installation can book up quickly

• Delays may impact anniversaries or planned memorial gatherings

Why it matters:
Waiting too long can lead to missed memorial dates or unnecessary stress.

✅ Tip: You can start the design process at any time — even before burial — and have the memorial installed when your family is ready.

Final Thoughts

Buying a headstone is not something most people do often — but avoiding these five mistakes can help make the experience smoother, more meaningful, and stress-free.

At Richfield Monuments, we guide you through every step of the process with compassion, experience, and honesty. Whether you need help designing a custom headstone, understanding cemetery rules, or working within your budget, we're here for you.

📍 Serving families across Richfield and all of Utah.
📞 Contact us today for a free consultation or visit our showroom to see headstone options in person.