If you choose a traditional burial for a loved one, the funeral homes will present you with numerous caskets choices. Many people choose their burial containers simply based on color and price. While there is nothing wrong with this method, understanding the differences in materials and construction can sometimes help you better understand caskets at higher price points. Here are a few tips on what to consider when choosing this vessel.
Metal Caskets
Metal caskets can often present a certain sense of comfort to the deceased's family. Because metal does not decompose like wood, families often feel that metal preserves the body better than other materials. While durability can be essential, no casket will keep the deceased in perfect condition forever.
Metal caskets are available in:
All metals have thick, rust-proof shells. The thickness of these shells is described as gauges. For example, you may see 18 gauge steel caskets versus 20 gauge caskets. What you need to remember is the higher the gauge, the thicker the steel.
While you may think a thick shell would be more expensive, it is the opposite. The thinner 18 gauge steel is easier for the manufacturer to shape and color. The thinner materials mean 18 gauge presents more options and colors.
Wood Caskets
Some people love the warm look of wood. There are many makes and models available in this material as well. Wood caskets are available in:
Lower-end caskets constructed from pine, willow, wicker, bamboo, or poplar are available. Some of these woods have become more popular, especially untreated wood. The popularity of these woods is due to the consideration of them being more eco-friendly because they require less time to decompose in the ground.
Gaskets
The funeral home will also ask you whether or not you want your casket sealed. While wood caskets do not seal, they do close snuggly.
Manufacturers install additional gaskets in metal caskets that create a tighter seal. Gaskets keep out other environmental elements, such as water, further protecting the body contained within.
Gaskets do come at an additional price. You will see this if you compare the pricing of a 20 gauge non-gasketed casket to a 20 Gauge Gasketed Casket. The price increase is usually nominal, and most cemeteries accept either type of vessel. Only you can decide if the gasket is worth it.
Share1 November 2022
A couple of weeks ago, one of my dear family friend’s suffered the loss of her husband. After a brief illness, he passed away at a local hospital. Immediately after his passing, she started planning the funeral arrangements. She didn’t want his funeral to be a sad occasion. Instead, she wanted the service to celebrate his amazing life. She worked tirelessly with the professional staff at a local funeral home in order to plan the order and type of service for the funeral. On this blog, you will discover tips for planning a funeral service that will celebrate the life of your deceased loved one.