By Capital Grave Markers · Published · Last updated · 5 min read
The most common flat grave marker sizes are 16 × 8 inches, 20 × 10 inches and 24 × 12 inches, usually 1 to 4 inches thick. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs uses 24 × 12 × 4 inches for its flat granite marker. Companion markers for two people are wider, typically 36 inches or more. Your cemetery’s maximum size is the final rule.
Key Takeaways
- Common flat marker sizes are 16 × 8, 20 × 10 and 24 × 12 inches.
- The VA standard flat granite marker is 24 × 12 × 4 in and weighs about 130 lb.
- Companion flat markers in our catalog measure 24 × 12 in and 36 × 12 in.
- The cemetery sets the maximum size — always confirm before ordering.
What are the standard flat grave marker sizes?
These are the flat sizes offered in our catalog (length × width × thickness, in inches), with typical uses.
| Size (in) | Typical use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 10 × 6 × 2 | Small marker, infant or cremation plot | Praying Hands flat marker, $198 |
| 16 × 8 × 1–4 | Single grave, name and dates | Compact flat headstones |
| 20 × 10 × 1–3 | Single grave, short epitaph | Mid-size flat headstones |
| 24 × 12 × 2–4 | Single grave; matches the VA flat marker footprint | Standard flat headstones |
| 28 × 16 × 2–4 | Single grave with artwork or symbols | Large flat headstones |
| 36 × 12 × 4 | Companion (two names) | Flat companion marker with roses |
What size is a VA flat grave marker?
The VA’s flat granite and flat marble grave markers are 24 inches long, 12 inches wide and 4 inches thick, and weigh approximately 130 pounds. Its flat bronze marker is also 24 × 12 inches with a 3/4-inch rise and weighs about 18 pounds; the government does not furnish a base for it.
Because many cemeteries have accepted the 24 × 12 in footprint for decades, it is a practical reference size when you ask what a section allows.
How thick should a flat grave marker be?
Flat markers are generally 1 to 4 inches thick. Thickness affects weight and how the stone is set: thinner markers are often placed on a concrete foundation or granite base. Some cemeteries specify a minimum thickness or require a foundation, so confirm the requirement in writing.
How big is a bevel marker compared to a flat marker?
A bevel marker has a similar footprint but is taller at the back, usually 4 to 6 inches, so the face tilts toward the reader. Bevel sizes in our catalog are 20 × 10 × 4, 20 × 10 × 6, 24 × 12 × 6, 28 × 14 × 6, 30 × 16 × 6 and 42 × 16 × 4 inches. Browse bevel markers.
How do I choose the right flat marker size?
Work from the cemetery rules down to the inscription.
- Get the section’s maximum length, width and thickness from the cemetery.
- Confirm whether a foundation or base is required and who installs it.
- Count the lines of text: names, dates, relationship and epitaph.
- Pick the smallest size that fits the inscription comfortably.
- For two people, compare a companion marker with two single markers.
Not sure which profile you need? Read Headstone Types Explained.
Sources
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs — Headstones and Markers: Types
- Federal Trade Commission — Buying a Cemetery Site
Prices quoted are listed prices on capitalgravemarkers.com as of September 27, 2026 and may change. The product page, written quote and signed agreement control your order.
Shop Related Memorials
Have a Question?
Our team is here to help with any questions about your order, delivery, or installation.
