Slant Monument

Installation

First, the foundation must be laid. Measure the base of the monument and dig a hole that measures two inches bigger than the outside perimeter of the base. The depth of the foundation is to be governed by the nature of the soil. For our southwest climate, it is safe to say a monument weighing up to 800 pounds should have a foundation six to eight inches deep, and a monument weighing 800 pounds or above should have a foundation eight to ten inches deep. Tamp the bottom of the hold down until the dirt is packed hard. Fill the hole level with cement. Remember, the cement foundation should be two inches bigger than the outside perimeter of the base.

Next, set the base. Place the base into position on the foundation. Push the base one inch into the wet concrete. Be sure that the base stands level in all directions. Let stand for one hour.

After the base is set, the monument can be placed. Place four pennies, one in each corner on the base where the monument will sit. Then place two 2x4's across the base. Set the monument on top of the 2x4's. Raise one end of the monument and pull out the 2x4 on that end. Allow the monument to set down on top of the pennies. Repeath this process on the other end of the monument, pulling out the 2x4 and allowing the monument to set down on top of the pennies. Next, lean the monument to one side and apply Silica Caulking to the base, under the monument. Lean the monument in the opposite direction and apply Silica Caulking in the same manner to the other side. Wipe away any excess Silica Caulking before it has the chance to set or harden. Make sure the Silica Caulking has formed a continuous seal around the bottom perimeter of the monument.

Clean and wash the memorial carefully to remove all dirt and finger marks. Wash with water, using a brush if necessary.

A monument erected in this fashion will not be affected by the weather and should remain plumb and true for hundreds of years!