Burial vaults are a product that you may choose to include in your funeral arrangements. Whether you are pre-planning for yourself or arranging for the burial of a loved one, you should understand what the vault is to decide whether you want one. Below you will learn what they do and when funeral directors recommend them.

A Guide to Burial Vaults

What They Are

Burial vaults are made of hard and slowly degrading materials such as concrete, plastic, or metal. It is placed in the grave before lowering the casket inside. A lid then goes over the chest before burial. This enclosure protects the casket and the body inside from the elements. While there are no guarantees that it will preserve the body, these vaults keep dirt from falling in and may slow the decomposition process.

When They’re Necessary

Many cemeteries require the use of a vault since they keep the soil from caving in around the casket, which causes a sinkhole in the graveyard. This sinkhole is unsightly, dangerous, and damages the surrounding landscape.

People may choose to use one if the cemetery does not require it. They are particularly common in coastal areas or low-lying elevations where the ground is unstable and wet. Any areas that are in a flood zone need a vault because the soil is likely to collapse during a flood. Funeral directors also recommend a vault if there’s a chance that you are moving or exhuming the grave in the future.

The professionals at Stine-Kilburn Funeral Home of Lebanon will help you make these significant decisions when putting a loved one to rest in Warren County, OH. They have been a part of the community since 1987, offering both cremation and traditional burial services. Learn more about them on their website and call (513) 932-1239 at any time to begin planning.