Honouring Loved Ones: Plaque Material Guide

Memories of our loved ones live on in our hearts long after they’re gone. But sometimes, we long for something more, a way to feel closer to them. A memorial plaque offers that meaningful, physical connection: something tangible that honours their life and keeps their spirit present. Whether placed in a garden, near a family home, or unveiled during a special event or commemoration, it becomes a lasting symbol of love and remembrance.

At Somerville Memorials, one of Calgary’s oldest and most trusted monument retailers since 1903, we understand how important it is to create a tribute that truly reflects the memory of someone special. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common materials for outdoor memorial plaques, outlining their benefits and key considerations to help you make the right choice.

Understanding Outdoor Memorial Plaque Materials

Outdoor memorial plaques must endure the elements while preserving the dignity and beauty of the tribute. The ideal material combines durability, aesthetic appeal, and ease of maintenance. Somerville Memorials specializes in crafting monuments and plaques from high-quality materials, including granite, bronze, and marble, each offering unique qualities suited to different preferences and environments.

Granite: The Enduring Natural Stone

Granite is regarded as one of the most durable natural stones for memorial plaques. Its hardness and resistance to weathering make it an excellent choice for outdoor use, especially in Calgary’s variable climate. Granite plaques maintain their integrity and legibility for many years, resisting erosion and fading. They come in various colours and finishes, allowing customization to reflect your loved one’s personality and legacy. Granite’s natural beauty offers a timeless, elegant tribute that requires minimal maintenance, making it a practical and lasting option.

Bronze: The Classic Metal Alloy

Bronze has long been the gold standard for outdoor memorial plaques. This alloy of copper and tin is prized for its strength, corrosion resistance, and warm, rich appearance. Bronze plaques develop a distinguished patina over time, adding character without compromising legibility. They are highly durable against harsh weather conditions, including Calgary’s cold winters and summer sun, ensuring the inscription remains clear for decades. Bronze’s classic look and longevity make it a favoured choice for families seeking a traditional and dignified memorial.

Marble: Elegant and Customizable

Marble memorial plaques offer a refined and polished appearance with a smooth surface ideal for detailed engraving. Available in various colours such as white, black, and gray, marble can be customized with inscriptions, images, and symbols that hold special meaning. While marble is elegant and visually striking, it is somewhat softer than granite and can be more susceptible to weathering over time, especially in outdoor settings with fluctuating temperatures. However, marble plaques maintain their beauty with proper care and serve as a heartfelt tribute.

Making the Right Choice for Your Memorial Plaque

When selecting the best material for your outdoor memorial plaque, consider several factors:

• Location and Climate: Calgary’s climate includes cold winters, snow, and sun exposure. Materials like granite and bronze are particularly suited to withstand these conditions without significant wear.

• Durability Needs: Granite and bronze are superior choices for a plaque meant to last generations with minimal maintenance. Marble offers elegance but may require more upkeep.

• Aesthetic Preferences: Each material offers a distinct look. Granite’s natural stone texture, bronze’s warm metallic finish, and marble’s polished elegance. Your choice can reflect the personality and spirit of your loved one.

• Budget: While bronze and granite are more costly due to their durability and craftsmanship, they provide long-term value. Marble may be a more affordable option, but consider potential maintenance costs.

At Somerville Memorials, we pride ourselves on offering expertly crafted monuments and plaques in a range of sizes, shapes, and colours to suit your needs. Our compassionate and knowledgeable staff are here to guide you through this emotional and important decision with care and respect.

We invite you to contact Somerville Memorials for personalized advice tailored to your specific situation. Our experienced team is ready to help you create a lasting tribute that truly reflects the life and spirit of your loved one. If you have a design concept in mind, don’t hesitate to reach out for a pricing estimate. No matter which material you choose, the most important thing is that your memorial plaque becomes a lasting tribute. A quiet, enduring reminder of a life deeply loved and never forgotten.