Concrete vs. MonuGrid®: Enhancing Memorial Stability
The stability of cemetery memorials is crucial for preserving the memories of loved ones. Traditionally, concrete has been the primary material used for memorial foundations. However, with the creation of MonuGrid® technology, there's a new approach that offers significant advantages in terms of durability, sustainability, ease of installation, long-term stability, and huge financial advantages. Let's dive into the differences between concrete and MonuGrid and why the latter emerges as the better solution for memorial stability.
Concrete Foundations:
We all know concrete has been the standard method or practice of constructing monument foundations for the last 100 years or so. Based on overwhelming evidence, concrete has not always performed as intended for memorial foundations
Concrete has long been relied upon as the standard material for memorial foundations in cemeteries. Although concrete provides a rigid or solid surface for a memorial to rest on, regrettably the cemetery industry must deal with the reality that concrete foundations may sink and decay over time. Unfortunately, these failing foundations eventually require much needed repair or attention at the expense of either the cemetery or the family.
Because concrete is a heavy material to start with, adding a very heavy memorial to it greatly increases the weight applied to the subgrade. With all this weight, ground settling starts to occur which is caused by a variety of factors such as weak subgrade, poor drainage around the foundation causing eventual erosion resulting in differential settlement.
Once all these factors come into play, the memorial starts to lean or sink because the structural integrity has been compromised. In some cases, the memorial such as an upright monument can eventually tumble which can lead to property damage or even worse, physical harm to the public.
Here are a few more examples of the effects of sinking memorials:
Costly repairs to excavate and rebuild a failed concrete foundation
Potential disputes with family members over the cost or funding
If the family is unwilling, or cannot be contacted, the cost burden falls on the cemetery especially if it becomes a liability risk or unsightly appearance
Public perception may affect prospects' decision to choose that cemetery
Installation of concrete foundations is a labor-intensive process that involves excavation, formwork, pouring, and curing; this process can be time-consuming. Repairing failed concrete foundations often involves costly and invasive procedures, further adding to the maintenance burden.
Check out our previous blog Fortifying Bronze on Granite Memorials for Lasting Legacyfor more information about sinking bronze on granite issues and our solutions.
MonuGrid® Technology:
MonuGrid is an engineered reinforced soil structure (RSS) solution that replaces traditional concrete methods for memorial foundations. Although (RSS) is considered new to the cemetery industry as an alternative to traditional concrete methods, (RSS) technology has been around for over 50 years. In fact, it has become a standard construction practice across North America for such things as highways and bridges, for well over 30 years.
MonuGrid represents a revolutionary advancement in memorial stability. Unlike traditional concrete foundations, MonuGrid utilizes modern techniques such as mechanically stabilized earth which consists of a geo-cellular confinement system. This geo-cellular confinement system is composed of lightweight yet durable materials made from low density polyethylene which is a very crucial and important element.
This innovative design distributes weight evenly across the soil, minimizing the risk of sinking and shifting. MonuGrid's solutions provide unparalleled stability, ensuring that memorials remain upright and level for years to come.
Installation of MonuGrid is a straightforward process that requires minimal excavation and disruption. The lightweight materials are easily transported and assembled on-site, reducing installation time and labor costs. MonuGrid can be customized to accommodate various memorial sizes and configurations, allowing for flexibility and adaptability in cemetery settings.
Check out this video to learn about the installation process.
One of the key advantages of MonuGrid is its minimal maintenance requirements. Unlike concrete, MonuGrid will not sink or deteriorate over time, eliminating the need for costly repairs and maintenance. This not only saves time and money but also ensures that memorials retain their aesthetic appeal and structural integrity for generations to come.
While concrete has been a traditional choice for memorial foundations, MonuGrid technology offers significant advantages in terms of durability, ease of installation, and long-term stability. By replacing traditional concrete foundations with MonuGrid, cemeteries can ensure that memorials remain upright, level, and beautiful for years to come. With its innovative design and minimal maintenance requirements, MonuGrid represents the future of memorial stability in cemetery settings.
