Memorial Timescales

Understanding the timescales involved when ordering a memorial can help set clear expectations at what is often a difficult time. Below we have outlined the most common questions regarding memorial headstone timescales, from when a memorial can be erected to how long production and installation typically take.

When can a memorial be erected on a grave?

In most cases, a memorial headstone can be erected approximately six months after the last burial, allowing time for the ground to settle properly. This settling period is essential to ensure the memorial can be installed safely and securely.

If cremated remains are interred, a memorial can usually be fixed immediately, as there is no requirement for the ground to settle. We are always happy to advise based on the specific cemetery or churchyard regulations.

How long does it take to make and install a headstone?

For our standard memorial designs, the typical timescale is around 3–4 months from order confirmation to installation.

This estimated timescale begins once we have received:

Your signed order confirmation
The agreed deposit payment

We handle the permit and approval process with the cemetery or churchyard on your behalf, which is usually straightforward. However, if your chosen memorial is a more unusual size, design or material, additional time may be required to confirm details and gain approval. We will always advise you of this at the outset.

Factors that can affect memorial timescales

While we always aim to complete memorials as quickly as possible, some factors are outside of our control, including:

Cemetery or council response times
Shipping and material availability
Additional approval requirements

As a result, some memorials may be completed in less than four months, while others may take slightly longer. We will always keep you informed of progress and provide updates throughout the process.

Non-standard and bespoke memorials

If you are ordering a non-standard or bespoke memorial, manufacturing and delivery times are typically longer. In these cases, you should expect a timescale of approximately 4–6 months or more, depending on the complexity of the design. We will discuss expected timescales with you in full before proceeding.

If you have any questions about memorial timescales or would like to discuss your specific requirements, please contact our team. We are always happy to provide clear guidance and support throughout the process.

Gravestone honoring Brenda and Philip Waddington with engraved poem, surrounded by colorful flowers and other graves in the background.

Black granite tombstone with an angel sculpture on top, depicting a praying angel with wings, in a cemetery. The tombstone commemorates Michael Kivell, born September 21, 1940, and passed away June 16, 2024. It includes inscriptions 'Loving Uncle' and 'Rest in Peace' with a cross symbol. There are two round gold-colored ornaments at the base of the tombstone.

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View Angel Headstones

Grave site with black polished headstone reading 'In Loving Memory of SUSAN ELIZABETH DOBSON née CLOUR, A Beautiful and Loving Wife and Mother, Died 2nd February 2024, Aged 66 Years.' There is a small yellow sunflower and other floral decorations next to the grave, a wooden cross, and a little decorative item beneath the cross. A black iron fence surrounds the cemetery, with parked cars and trees visible in the background during either dawn or dusk.

Gravestone in a cemetery commemorating Marjorie Winpenny, who was 77 years old at the time of her death on March 21, 2025. The gravestone has two solar-powered lights at its base and is surrounded by grass and other graves in the background.

View Kerb Headstones

View Sandstone Headstones

A black polished granite headstone for Nina Chernavina, with yellow flowers on the base, in a cemetery with grass and trees, surrounded by a black metal fence.

Grave marker for Anthony Littlewood with an engraved inscription, surrounded by a small garden with a potted plant, in a cemetery with other gravestones and trees in the background.

View Lawn Headstones

View Rustic Headstones

A commemorative gravestone with a book shaped memorial plaque dedicated to Jean Marshall, who lived from December 12, 1938, to October 23, 2023. The plaque is black with gold lettering and a depiction of a tassel or braided cord. A bouquet of wilted flowers and a small metal vase with pink and white roses are placed on top of the plaque, with additional flowers lying at the base.

Black granite headstone with gold inscriptions in a cemetery, honoring James Oliver Barrett, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather who died at age 84 on December 31, 2024. The headstone features a four-leaf clover symbol and two commemorative discs at the base.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Any further questions? Contact us today and our team will be happy to help.

We cover all of Yorkshire and North of England.
We can offer quotations for memorials from any catalogue, as well as for bespoke memorial designs created to your individual requirements.
During your initial meeting, we will design the memorial using our specialist design programme while you are with us. Once the stone is ready to be fitted, you are welcome to visit our workshop to view the memorial in person if you wish. Alternatively, we can provide photographs for your approval before installation.
Under normal circumstances a memorial can be fitted 6 months following the burial. We will go and survey the grave to advise time scales as the 6 months approaches.
Each cemetery/churchyard the fee differs from additional inscription to fitting a new memorial, but we will be able to advise at the time and this will be included in the itemised estimate that is sent through.
Yes we are, we are members are of the British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons (BRAMM) & National Association of Memorial Masons (NAMM)

Are you looking for more information or to place an order for a memorial stone in Yorkshire?

At JM Memorials, we regularly review and quality-check our headstones and memorials to ensure we offer the best possible value, service, and craftsmanship. For this reason, we prefer to discuss quotations directly with you over the phone, so we can fully understand your needs and answer any questions you may have. Please feel free to call us on +44 (0)1924 856644 or email info@jmmltd.co.uk.co.uk — our friendly team will be happy to help.

A Family Business, That You Can Trust

JM Memorials in Yorkshire, we specialise in supplying high-quality headstones and memorials in Yorkshire at competitive prices. As an independent, family-run monumental masonry business, we provide expert craftsmanship across all aspects of memorial masonry, combining traditional skills with modern techniques.

Widely regarded as one of the leading headstone and memorial masons in the North of England, JM Memorials creates both traditional and bespoke memorials to the highest standards. All memorials are professionally installed on concrete and terrazzo foundations ensuring long-term strength, stability and durability for generations to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

A Family Business, That You Can Trust

JM Memorials Ltd.