Many people ask what happens to a coffin after it is placed in the ground. Over time, the ground presses down on it. This can cause the coffin to break or fall in.
What Makes a Coffin Collapse?
A coffin is not made to last forever. The weight of the soil on top puts a lot of pressure. If the soil is wet, it gets even heavier. Water can also leak in and rot the wood.
Wood coffins can break down in 10 to 50 yrs, based on the type of wood and ground. Metal coffins may last longer, but they can rust. Over time, all coffins start to weaken.
One family in the U.S.A. found that a wooden coffin had caved in after 30 yrs. Another case in the U.K. showed a metal coffin stayed whole for over 60 yrs.
What Happens to the Ground?
When a coffin breaks, the ground above may sink. This is called grave sinkage. Cemeteries may fill in sunken spots to keep the area safe.
Some families use a vault to protect the coffin. A vault is a box, made from concrete or steel. It helps stop the ground from sinking. Many cemeteries now require vaults.
How to Delay Collapse
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Pick a strong coffin
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Use a burial vault
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Bury in dry, firm soil
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Avoid places with lots of rain
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Work with a trusted funeral home
Final Thought
It may feel sad to think about coffins breaking down. But this is part of the natural process. Families can choose ways to help protect the grave. Every choice shows care for the one who has passed.
Have you ever seen a grave that sank over time?