Having a final resting place in a cemetery holds sentimental value for many, making burials a meaningful part of final arrangements—even for people who are interested in cremation.
An important logistical component of a burial is the burial vault, which is also called a cemetery vault, grave vault or outer burial container. It’s required by most cemeteries, so it’s a vital consideration in the planning process.
Learning about cemetery vaults and its part in a burial is an important step to funeral preplanning or making final arrangements. Uncover why below.
How a Cemetery Vault Protects the Remains and the Cemetery
A burial vault is an outer casing, usually made of concrete, that protects the buried casket or urn—and the cemetery—from damage.
Without a vault, the casket or urn could be subject to deterioration underground, or collapse from heavy machinery and foot traffic above.
If the casket or urn exterior breaks down from natural causes or excessive weight and loosens the soil, the cemetery ground can become uneven—or even collapse.
That creates potentially dangerous conditions for patrons within the cemetery, as well as increases cemetery maintenance costs.
For these reasons, cemeteries usually require a vault or a liner.
What’s the Difference Between a Vault and a Liner?
One difference is the number of urn or casket sides being covered. A vault covers all sides of the casket or urn, whereas a liner leaves the bottom open to the earth.
Cemetery vaults are typically placed in the grave first, then the casket or urn fits snugly inside. The lid is sealed before it’s covered with soil.
A liner, on the other hand, is lowered down on top of the casket or urn after burial to shield it from the earth on all sides but the bottom.
Also, because a vault is sealed and manufactured differently than a liner, it protects the remains from the elements.
Logistics of Choosing a Cemetery Vault
It’s important to note that a burial or cemetery vault is not required by law. However, most cemeteries require a vault or liner for the safety and upkeep benefits mentioned above.
When it’s time to purchase a vault or liner, it can be purchased from the funeral home, cemetery or memorial provider. They’re available elsewhere, too, but the key is to choose a reputable vendor.
You can contact Milano Monuments for details on prices and options, as we have a deep understanding of the cemeteries across Northeast Ohio.
Vaults and liners both start at a few thousand dollars, but vaults are more expensive because of the enhanced coverage and weather-proofing capabilities as compared to liners.
If you’re burying an urn instead of a casket, the costs will decrease because there’s less material needed.
Are You Honoring a Life Through Burial?
Whether you’re preplanning to ease the burden of decision-making later on or working on final arrangements now, the experts at Milano Monuments can help you decide the perfect way to memorialize a life well lived.
Contact us today to ask questions, or schedule an appointment to walk through the memorialization process in person.
Related Resources:
- Memorial Rules and Regulations for Cleveland-Area Cemeteries
- Headstone Design Guide
- How Much Does a Burial Plot Cost?
- Cremation vs. Burial: What You Need to Know Before You Decide
