Memorial Headstone Installation

At JATEM Memorials and Headstones, we understand that installing a headstone is an important part of remembering your loved one. Our process reflects the care and skill that we would expect for our own family, following strict safety and quality standards.

Our Installation Process: Step by Step

1. Laying the Foundation

We start by levelling the plot and laying the foundation. We follow Auckland Council's Cemeteries and Crematoria Code of Practice 2014. For installations overseas—in places like Tonga, Samoa, Rarotonga, or Niue—we maintain the same high standards, even when burials follow local customs on family land.

2. Setting the Base and Assembling

Once the base is placed and leveled, we let it dry almost completely before assembling the rest of the headstone. We use high-quality adhesive to attach each part securely, and we insert pegs between sections to ensure long-term stability. We make sure all parts are aligned perfectly during this process.

3. Materials Used: Granite and Marble

We use granite and marble for our headstones, based on the client's preference. These materials are chosen for their durability and ability to last over 100 years. We often work with red ruby granite, grey stone granite, and white marble. For council cemeteries, these are the recommended materials. In private cemeteries, families can choose other options like glass, but we usually focus on traditional, long-lasting stone materials.

4. Attention to Detail

Throughout the installation, we clean and smooth each surface to ensure it looks perfect. At the end of the process, we wrap the headstone in black plastic to protect it until the unveiling. The entire installation process takes about four hours, but the adhesive and cement require 24 to 48 hours to dry fully. During this time, we ask families not to touch the memorial to allow it to set properly. We usually install a few days before the unveiling to prevent theft or damage to vases and ornaments.

Honouring Life with Care and Precision

A headstone covered and ready for unveiling

Regulations by Cemetery or Region

The rules we follow depend on the specific cemetery and region. In Auckland, there are specific height and width limits for headstones, and they cannot include offensive images or language (e.g., gang symbols). Glass is not allowed in council cemeteries for safety reasons, but private cemeteries offer more flexibility.

As part of our service, we handle all permit applications for the installation. This includes submitting measurements, drafting wording, and providing artwork for approval. Permits typically take 1-2 weeks to process, though delays during COVID-19 sometimes made it longer. Our good relationships with local councils and suppliers help make this process run smoothly.

Weather Considerations

Weather can affect the installation timeline. Rain or strong winds can cause delays, as we want to ensure conditions are safe and the work is done well. We also conduct regular checks on headstones we've installed to ensure the foundation remains stable. Sometimes heavy machinery used nearby can shift a foundation, but we make sure to catch and fix these issues early. We encourage families to contact us if they notice any problems, such as shifting foundations or peeling paint.

Common Challenges in Installation

Installing a headstone can come with challenges, such as uneven ground or decorated neighbouring plots. For example, Waikumete Cemetery has a section on a hill, which means we need extra team members for stability. When families decorate nearby areas, it can limit our work space. We always ask families to clear the area, but if items like heavy pot plants are left behind, our team uses special tools and trolleys to move them carefully.

When space is tight, we put out safety cones and work as efficiently as possible. We manage uneven ground with the help of two or three team members to ensure the headstone is placed securely and respectfully.

Aftercare Recommendations

After installation, it's important to take care of the memorial to keep it looking beautiful for many years. We recommend using a soft cloth instead of a brush, as brushes can wear away the paint. For dried bird droppings, simply use a wet cloth to clean the surface. For white marble headstones that develop rust stains, a gentle dab of Janola (not too much) can help remove the stain. We are always here to guide families on aftercare and maintenance to keep the memorial a fitting tribute.

"At JATEM Memorials, we are committed to providing you with a beautiful and lasting tribute to your loved ones. Our installation process is carried out with the same care we would give to our own family, ensuring every detail is perfect and that each memorial reflects the love and respect it deserves."
- Lateline Nofo'akifolau, Founder