Mackay Monumental Masons
LAser Stone Engraving
in Mackay
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Mackay Laser Stone Engraving
Mackay Monumental Masons is proud to announce our new Laser Engraving Service to you. We are so excited to bring you more modern methods of engraving and are looking forward to creating a beautiful memorial for your loved one. Please find below some helpful information to assist with your choices.
What is "Laser Engraving"?
Laser engraving applies to etching on granite stone. This process involves removing a small portion of the polished surface with a CO2 laser. Depending on the image, the etching becomes permanently fixed into the natural exposed material. Mackay Monumental Masons use a high-grade CNC machine to laser etch high-definition images on granite.
Call us on
07 4944 0008 to discuss your options.
Laser Engraving vs The Sandblasting Method
New Laser Engraving Method
Laser engraving is the newer method of headstone engraving and is quickly becoming the most popular style to choose.
With laser etching, a CNC machine uses a laser to carefully etch the surface of the granite.
The benefits of laser etching are that it requires less maintenance, as less surface area is exposed, and it can create more intricate, detailed images, including photos of loved ones, pets, scenery, the sky is the limit. The downside is that the only available colour to etch on is black granite.
Sandblasting Method
Sandblasting is the most popular form of making headstones nowadays. This method etches the design into the surface of the stone without chipping the granite, but still allowing the design to be seen. One negative of traditional etching is that it does wear away faster in the elements. Wind, rain, and dirt can collect in the grooves of the engraved design, and the design can soften over time. You are also limited by the detail you can achieve using the sandblasting method, which is mainly used for inscription and symbols. To get a photo added, it will usually be porcelain, which can add extra costs and maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can photos be laser engraved onto a memorial?
Yes, high-resolution photos can be laser engraved onto stone, usually granite. The image is digitally processed and converted into a format that the engraving machine can replicate, capturing light and shadow to produce a lifelike result. This allows families to include a portrait or meaningful scene on a headstone. The process is permanent, weather-resistant and ideal for honouring a loved one with a deeply personal and lasting tribute.
Is laser engraving better than traditional methods?
Laser engraving offers several advantages over traditional sandblasting, especially for detailed work. It allows for precise replication of photographs, intricate fonts and detailed artwork. Unlike traditional methods that rely on stencils and abrasives, laser engraving produces smooth, accurate results without physical contact. While both methods are durable, laser engraving stands out for customisation and fine detail, making it a preferred choice for modern headstones and memorial plaques.
Can laser engraving be added to an existing headstone?
Yes, laser engraving can often be added to an existing granite headstone, provided the surface is smooth and has enough space. A technician will assess the condition and position of the stone before preparing the design. This allows families to update inscriptions, add names or include new artwork without replacing the entire monument. It’s a cost-effective way to preserve consistency while enhancing or personalising a memorial.
