Altoona Memorial Studio
Altoona's Only Authorized Rock Of Ages Retailer





Frequently Asked Questions



  1. What are the pitfalls of buying a monument online?
  2. What are the advantages to purchasing a memorial in advance?
  3. If I choose cremation, can I still have a memorial?
  4. How much can I expect to pay for a monument?
  5. What is included in the price?
  6. How soon after we order a memorial can we expect it to be finished and installed?
  7. Can I design my own monument?
  8. Are there any restrictions on what type of memorial I can use?
  9. Do you handle everything or does my family have to make arrangements?
10. Do you offer any payment options?
11. Do you guarantee my monument forever?
12. Are there different types of granite?
13. Who installs the concrete foundations?
14. Do you have to wait for the ground to ’settle’ before a monument can be installed?

15. Can Altoona Memorial Studio inscribe the final date or other information on a       monument that was purchased elsewhere?

16. Why are many of the very old monuments so hard to read?



1. What are the pitfalls of buying a monument online?

With so many online monument dealers cropping up, it’s hard to know where they’re located, how long they’ve been in business or whether they are reputable. There’s no reliable information about which companies might be questionable dealers.

In addition, cemeteries typically have individual rules and regulations that determine, among other things, the size and type of monuments that they allow. We work with all local cemeteries and are familiar with the specific rules and restrictions of each.

We will work with you to ensure you receive the highest value and quality workmanship. All of our products come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee and if your monument should begin to shift or lean, we’ll fix it at no cost to you or your family.

2. What are the advantages to purchasing a memorial in advance?

By purchasing a memorial in advance, you can be certain that you will receive the exact memorial of your choosing. By acting now, you also relieve your family of having to choose for you and make difficult decisions during an emotional time. Our professional sales consultants are sensitive to your needs and can help you make the right choice.

3. If I choose cremation, can I still have a memorial?

Cremation does not eliminate the opportunity for memorialization, nor the need for a family member to have a concrete way to remember a loved one. We offer a wide range of memorialization options, whether for placement in a traditional cemetery or at another location. We will be happy to explain your options. Check out some of our cremation memorials.

4. How much can I expect to pay for a monument?

Depending on the quality, size, color and shape, monument prices vary greatly. It is very difficult to say what an average price would be until we have more information about what you have in mind. That’s why it’s important to stop by. We can discuss what type of memorial you’re looking for and then determine the cost.

5. What is included in the price?

The price that we quote you is an all inclusive, final price. It covers the memorial, lettering and design, foundation and installation. There are no taxes on memorials.

6. How soon after we order a memorial can we expect it to be finished and installed?

We guarantee that all American made memorials will be installed in the cemetery within 90 days of your order. Imported granite has to be shipped, of course, and so may take longer.

7. Can I design my own monument?

We have the craftsman with the experience and expertise to customize memorials in many ways. Today, there are hundreds of options in monument design and personalization and we have many design books to give you ideas.

8. Are there any restrictions on what type of memorial I can use?

Many cemeteries do have restrictions, at least regarding size, and some have other restrictions. Our knowledgeable manager will know your cemetery’s rules and regulations and will assist you in every way possible.

9. Do you handle everything or does my family have to make arrangements?

We will handle everything for you and your family. We make all of the arrangements so that everything is as easy and smooth running as possible during a difficult time.

10. Do you offer any payment options?

We offer three ways of paying. Typically, we ask for half down, and the remaining balance is due upon your approval of the inscription/design. We also can work out a payment plan and once it is paid in full (usually within a year of purchase), we install your memorial. The third option is to pay for your memorial in full at the time of purchase.

11. Do you guarantee my monument forever?

We provide a Forever Guarantee on all of our work. TThis covers design, price, foundation, installation and your complete satisfaction. We take great pride in our products and in our work. Of course, in addition to our guarantees, Rock of Ages provides a full in perpetuity guarantee on their granite, so if you choose a Rock of Ages monument with us, your entire memorial package will be guaranteed forever.

12. Are there different types of granite?

Yes, there are different kinds and colors of granite. For instance, gray granite can vary a great deal between the lowest grade and the highest (full perpetual warranty) grade. Among the oldest rock on earth, all granite has strength, durability and beauty, yet, like other natural material such as wood, each has different characteristics. Check out our granite colors.

13. Who installs the concrete foundations?

This varies according to each cemetery’s regulations. Sometimes, cemeteries stipulate that their people must install the foundations. If not, you can trust our experienced installers to do an excellent job with the utmost respect and care.

14. Do you have to wait for the ground to "settle" before a monument can be installed?

No, because typically the ground where the foundation is set is usually undisturbed. In cases where it has been disturbed, we use methods that will prevent your foundation from going any more than 3/16" out of level.

15. Can Altoona Memorial Studio inscribe the final date or other information on a monument that was purchased elsewhere?

Yes, we can and do, even if the monument wasn't bought from us.

16. Why are many of the very old monuments so hard to read?

Most of the very old monuments are made from marble, lower quality granite or are simply dirty. Memorials can be cleaned with dish washing liquid, a brush and elbow grease. However, if that doesn’t work, call us about our professional cleaning services. Keep in mind, that older methods of lettering monuments provided little contrast between the inscription and the background, which makes them hard to read.