What Type of Burial Vault is Best?
Choosing a burial vault is one of the hardest decisions a family can make. When my friend Maria lost her grandmother in Spain, she had to pick between different vault options. She felt lost and confused. This guide will help you understand what works best for your loved ones.
What Is a Burial Vault?
A burial vault is a container that goes around a coffin in the ground. It protects the casket from soil, water, and pressure. Most cemeteries in the U.S. require vaults. They keep the ground from sinking and make maintanence easier.
The vault market is worth over $400M in America. That shows how many ppl need this service each year. About 1.5M vaults are sold in the U.S. every year, according to the National Funeral Directors Assoc. (NFDA).
Concrete Vaults: The Standard Choice
Concrete vaults are the most common type. They cost between $700 and $1,500. These vaults are strong and last for many years.
In Germany, the Mueller family chose a concrete vault for their father. The cemetary required it, and it fit their budget. Concrete vaults come in different strengths. Some have special liners that keep water out better than basic models.
The thickness matters. Standard concrete vaults have walls that are 3-4 inches thick. Premium models can be 6 inches or more. Thicker walls mean better protecton.
Plastic and Polymer Vaults: A Modern Option
Plastic vaults cost less than concrete ones. Prices range from $500 to $900. These vaults are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene (PP).
My neighbor in France, Jean, picked a polymer vault for his wife. He liked that it would not crack like concrete. Plastic vaults resist moisture and chemicals in the soil. They weigh less, which makes instalation easier.
Some experts say plastic vaults can last 100+ years. However, they may not feel as solid as concrete to some familys. The choice depends on what matters most to you.
Metal Vaults: Premium Protection
Metal vaults offer the best protection. They use stainless steel (SS) or copper. These vaults cost between $2,000 and $10,000.
In England, the Thompson family spent £5,000 on a bronze vault. They wanted the best for their mother, who served as a nurse for 40 yrs. Metal vaults seal tight and keep out water compleatly.
Copper vaults can last 500+ years without breaking down. Stainless steel (SS) vaults resist rust and corrosion. These materials don’t let any moisture reach the casket.
Eco-Friendly Options: Green Burials
More people want enviromentally friendly choices. Green burial vaults use biodegradeable materials. They cost between $300 and $800.
In the Netherlands, about 15% of burials now use eco-friendly methods. The Van Berg family chose a vault made from recycled paper and plant fibers. It breaks down naturaly over 10-20 years.
These vaults still protect the casket but don’t stay in the ground forever. Some are made from bamboo, willow, or compressed wood. Green vaults meet cemetary requirements while helping the enviroment.
What Do Experts Recommend?
The Consumer Funeral Alliance (CFA) suggests considering three things: budget, cemetery rules, and personal values. Not every option works for every situaton.
Dr. Robert Klein, a funeral industry researcher, says “The best vault balances protection with affordability.” His studies show that mid-range concrete vaults with liners satisfy most families.
Understanding Cemetery Requirements
Each cemetery has different rules. Some require specific vault types. Before you buy, check with the cemetery managment.
In Italy, the Rossi family learned their chosen cemetery required concrete vaults with specific dimensons. They had to change their original plan. Always get the requirements in writing from the cemetery admin (ADMIN).
About 80% of U.S. cemeteries mandate vaults, according to the Cremation Assoc. of North America (CANA). This prevents graves from sinking and makes lawn care easier with heavy equiptment.
Cost Considerations for Families
Vault prices vary based on material, size, and features. Don’t let anyone pressure you into buying more than you need.
When Thomas in Belgium buried his son, the funeral home tried to sell him a $5,000 vault. He chose a $1,200 concrete model instead. It provided good protection without financial strain.
Many funeral homes mark up vault prices by 30-50%. You can often buy vaults from outside suppliers and save money. The Federal Trade Commision (FTC) says funeral homes must accept vaults from other vendors.
How Long Do Vaults Last?
Vault lifespan depends on material and soil conditions. Here are typical ranges:
- Concrete: 50-100 years
- Plastic/Polymer: 100+ years
- Stainless Steel: 200+ years
- Copper: 500+ years
- Biodegradable: 10-20 years
In Sweden, researchers studied vaults from the 1950s. Concrete vaults showed minimal damage after 60 years. The study appeared in the Journal of Cemetery Research in 2018.
Soil pH (pH) affects how vaults hold up. Acidic soil breaks down concrete faster. Wet climates challenge even strong vaults. Ask the cemetery about local soil conditons.
Making the Right Choice for Your Family
There is no single “best” vault for everyone. Think about what your family needs and values.
The Garcia family in Portugal had limited funds after their daughter’s unexpected death. They chose a basic concrete vault. It honored their daughter while keeping them financialy stable.
Money should not determine how much you loved someone. A simple vault protects remains just as well as expensive ones. What matters is the love and memorys you shared.
Questions to Ask Before Buying
When shopping for a vault, get answers to these questions:
- What does the cemetery require?
- What materials does the vault use?
- Does it have a warranty?
- What is the total cost, including instalation?
- Can I buy from an outside supplier?
Don’t sign anything until you understand all fees. Some funeral homes charge delivery fees, instalation fees, and handling fees on top of the vault price.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a burial vault is a personal decision. Consider your budget, cemetery requirements, and what feels right for your family.
Remember the story of Anne in Ireland. She spent weeks worrying about picking the “perfect” vault for her husband. Her sister reminded her that love doesn’t come from a box in the ground. It lives in the hearts of those who remember.
Take your time. Ask questions. Choose what brings you peace. That is the best vault for your situaton.
Read More: https://www.cnmonument.com/blog