Outdoor Pet Memorial Materials & Care
How to choose the right material for an outdoor memorial — and how to keep it looking beautiful for decades.
Slate vs Granite
| Feature | Slate | Granite |
|---|---|---|
| Durability outdoors | Excellent — 50+ years | Excellent — 100+ years |
| Texture | Natural, rustic, matte | Polished, smooth, refined |
| Color options | Dark gray to black | Black, gray, green |
| Weight | Lighter — easier to move | Heavier — stays in place |
| Weather patina | Develops natural patina | Stays polished |
| Best for | Garden, home display | Graveside, permanent marker |
| Price range | $55 – $75 | $89 – $169 |
Care guide
Cleaning
Rinse with water and gently wipe with a soft cloth. For stubborn dirt, use mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners, pressure washers, or wire brushes — these can scratch the stone surface.
Weather
Both slate and granite withstand rain, snow, freeze-thaw cycles, and direct sun. No covering or sealing is needed. The engraving is cut into the stone — it won't fade or wash away.
Placement
For garden placement, set the stone on level ground or a bed of gravel. For graveside, ensure the ground is stable. Heavier stones (granite markers) stay in place without anchoring.
QR code care
The QR code is engraved — not printed. It won't wear off. If dirt accumulates in the engraving, rinse with water and gently brush with a soft toothbrush.
Frequently asked questions
Can pet memorial stones be left outside year-round?
Yes. Our slate and granite markers are designed for permanent outdoor placement. They withstand rain, snow, freeze-thaw cycles, and direct sun without fading or cracking.
Will the engraving fade over time?
No. The engraving is cut into the stone surface — it's not paint or coating. It will not fade, peel, or wash away. The stone may develop natural weathering patina, but the engraving remains legible.
How do I clean an outdoor memorial stone?
Rinse with water and gently wipe with a soft cloth. For stubborn dirt, use mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners, pressure washers, or wire brushes.
Slate or granite — which is better for outdoors?
Both are excellent. Slate has a natural, rustic texture and develops a beautiful patina. Granite is denser, heavier, and more polished — the more traditional choice for graveside markers.
Will the QR code wear off?
The QR code is engraved into the stone — not printed or stuck on. It will not wear off. The tribute page it links to stays online permanently, with no subscription.
Ready to create their tribute?
Choose a stone built to last outdoors. From $45, with a permanent tribute page.
Begin a Tribute