A serp-top monument has a curved upper profile. The name does not specify an exact shape or size, so send a reference image and confirm the curve on a dimensioned drawing. Check the base, the space for lettering and the local cemetery limits before approving production.
What belongs on the drawing?
| Drawing item | Why buyers should approve it |
|---|---|
| Overall width and height | Controls cemetery fit and visual proportion |
| Curve and shoulder transition | Defines the actual serp profile |
| Thickness and base | Affects stability, fit, weight and packing |
| Polished and textured faces | Changes appearance and inscription contrast |
| Lettering field | Confirms usable layout before production |
What to approve before production
- Obtain written cemetery and foundation requirements.
- Approve dimensioned front and side elevations.
- Confirm material, visible variation and each finish.
- Approve lettering artwork and any carving details.
- Inspect the curve, symmetry, base fit and packing before shipment.
Build a repeatable retail range
A retailer can control options for size, stone, finish and ornament while retaining a signed master drawing. This supports consistent quoting without claiming that one design fits every cemetery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there one standard serp top size?
No. Use the specific cemetery and plot requirements plus an approved drawing.
What should be checked before production?
Confirm the curve, total dimensions, base, finishes, inscription area and foundation rules.
Can the same drawing be reordered?
Yes, but reconfirm material availability, cemetery requirements and inscription details for each order.
Sources and further reading
- MBNews — Publisher archive: Bryan Poirier, Quincy Memorials, “Connection Through Simplicity,” April 2021, pp. 14–17. Historical design commentary, not a current demand or margin forecast.
- Bereavement Authority of Ontario — Bylaws: Ontario-specific guidance on cemetery bylaws; not a Canada-wide monument size standard.
Updated October 5, 2026. Check the current requirements for your destination and order.
A workshop example
See the drawings and workshop photos from our Rodrigues order. This is a company project example; the requirements for your order are agreed separately.