Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Wisconsin Cemetery Gravestones and the Krause Monument Company

What is the difference between granite and marble?
The composition of granite and marble is very different. Granite is an igneous rock that was once a molten mass called magma. Marble is created by a concentration of bones and shells of sea creatures that built up a deposit of lime. Therefore, marble is not nearly as hard as granite and will erode over the years. Granite is the preferred material to use for memorials because of its durability.

How Do I Get Information About Wisconsin Cemetery Rules and Regulations?
Click here to learn about Wisconsin cemetery and gravestone (grave markers, headstones, memorials and monuments) information, rules, regulations and guidelines including directions to Wisconsin cemeteries served by the Krause Monument Company.

How is the carving and design put on the stone?
Krause Monument Company prides itself in our manufacturing process. Our main manufacturing plant is at our Viroqua, Wisconsin facility. We employ skilled craftsmen that hand-carve special designs. Through various sandblast processes, your design is permanently engraved in your chosen color and style of stone. Our craftsmen can duplicate any existing design or create a new personalized design made especially for your family.

If I want a special design, can you do it?
We pride ourselves in our ability to personalize each and every memorial. When you sit down with one of our design specialists, they will help you design a very meaningful and personal memorial. We have thousands of design options to chose from, or we can accommodate your special requests.

Do you stand behind your work?
Krause Monument Company guarantees the work we do for you. Please see our Unconditional Guarantee that we offer for all of our products and services.

Should I use years only or month, day and year?
Sometimes this decision must be made based on the amount of space that is available on your memorial with your chosen design. If there is sufficient space, then you may be more specific with information, such as month, day, and year, to offer more detailed information on the memorial. In most cases, there is no additional charge for the more detailed inscription if it is chosen at the time of purchase of the memorial.

If I run into problems at the cemetery, who should I go to for help?
In most cases, individual cemeteries are responsible for pouring the foundation for their monuments and markers to be installed there. A separate fee is collected to cover this work. We then deliver the memorial to the cemetery and set it on the foundation they provide. If there are issues with the foundation work, we will be happy to work with you and the cemetery to resolve them.

Do all cemeteries allow the same type of memorial?
Cemeteries each have their own requirements for the size and type of memorials that they will allow. We will work with you to determine what is allowed at your cemetery and what will look best on your lot. Please call us at 608-637-7726 for answers to your questions regarding cemetery regulations.

Why should I buy a memorial from Krause Monument Company instead of from the cemetery?

Krause Monument Company specializes in making memorials. We have our own manufacturing plant and do our own work. We are experts in the field, having been in business since 1895. Please review our Local Workshop page to see how a memorial is made to see a demonstration of our manufacturing process. While a cemetery may sell memorials as a sideline, it does not specialize in that product. We can provide the expertise to design an appropriate memorial for you, and we offer the most complete selection of designs and colors.

How much should I expect to pay for a memorial?
The cost of a memorial can vary significantly based on several factors. Our lawn level markers start at $500 and increase in price based on the design and color of granite that you choose. Monuments for one and two graves start at $1,300 and increase in price based on the style, size, design, and special features. Our mausoleums are very specialized, and start in price at $25,000. We encourage you to meet with one of our designers to discuss a memorial that will fit your needs and budget.

What is the difference between a hand etching and a laser etching?
Hand etchings are done by an artist who uses specialized diamond-tipped tools to create a series of tiny impressions directly in the black granite. These impressions will last forever and provide the maximum amount of clarity of an image. Laser etchings are done using a computer.