Fixing the Headstone.

One of the most important aspects of installing the headstone is the fixing within the ground. There has been much publicity about the hazards of falling or unsecure headstones and recent health and safety legislations, with many unsafe headstones being laid down to prevent accidents.

It is the responsibility of the mason to assess the ground conditions and decide which is the most suitable foundation and fixing method to be used. There are certain recommended fixing methods which are detailed by NAMM’s code of practice, which have been tested by an independent structural engineer. Particular attention should be paid to the hole size and depth stops to ensure the fixing is not compromised. The most common fixing types which is being recommended by NAMM and adopted by masons is the anchor fixing. Which entails usually a steel bar running from the foundation of the headstones deep into the ground. Below is an illustration of an anchor fixing.

There are various fixing methods depending on the ground conditions, headstone size etc. As long as the correct procedure if followed then the headstone should be securely fixed and not prove to be a hazard.

Headstones buying information.