attaching plaque to granite headstone

[AZVal]

 
My husband passed away last year, and I did not think at the time to include that he was a Vietnam Veteran on the headstone.  I would like to attach a small brass plaque to the headstone.   I was assuming this would be done by drilling holes and using screws with expansions?  Would this be hard to do?   The people at the cemetary who I bought the headstone through told me I'd have to order a new headstone.  I don't believe them.  Any help would be welcome.  Thank you.

[Mark D.]

Here are two options for you:

1) Drill holes into the granite with diamond bits and then put your anchors into the holes. Use the type of metal anchor that will expand when you put the crew into it. If you use anchors make sure they are galvanized and rustproof. The reason I don't like this is because if you do not seal the hole and water gets into it and then freezes you could crack the granite.

2) Get some epoxy and glue the plaque to the headstone. Use a knife grade epoxy (here are links to 2 of them:
http://www.defusco.com/instant-install-minute-epoxy-20oz-knife-grade-p-2371.html
http://www.defusco.com/rivo-knife-grade-epoxy-p-1427.html
If you epoxy the plaque make sure the surface below is not polished to a high gloss as that would mean the porosity is reduced. If that is the case you should rough it up a little with something abrasive (like diamond sandpaper - see this link):
http://www.defusco.com/electro-diamond-sandpaper-grit-p-2072.html
Once the epoxy has cured it will give you a permanent bond between the plaque and the granite. The reason for the knife grade is it is easier to work with, especially on vertical planes. Just make sure you want this plaque to become a permanent addition to the monument.

Personally, I like idea 2 the best. It is simpler and no less effective. According to Occam's razor "the simplest answer is usually the correct one".

Mark

[AZVal]

I knew there must be an option other than buying a whole new stone. 

Thank you  very much for your time.

Valerie