Burial Vaults: What They Are and Why You Need One

When you go through the price list of funeral homes in Manhasset, NY, you might notice a burial vault line item with a significant dollar figure in front.

This article explains what it is and why you might need to pay for one.

What’s a Burial Vault?

It is a lined and sealed concrete receptacle that houses the casket. In plain terms, it is a casket for the casket. This is not the same as a grave liner, which only covers the top and sides of the casket.

Burial vaults are only for in-ground burials, and they protect the casket from the surrounding earth and heavy maintenance equipment.

It shields the casket from natural elements too. A burial vault helps protect the casket from water and preserves its structure from rapid decay long term.

There are multiple types, each offering different levels of protection and personalization, depending on the manufacturer.

Regardless, they are all commonly made of concrete, lined in different combinations with various materials such as plastic and metal, including steel, bronze, and copper.

Why Do You Need One?

You’ve probably seen why a burial vault is a good idea from the explanation above. But you don’t need one.

It is totally okay to bury a loved one without one, and if you still want some protection, you can settle for the less expensive grave liner.

A grave liner costs between $700 to $1500, while a burial vault can cost $900 to $2500. Some burial vaults can cost as much as $10,000. Note that prices vary by region, manufacturer, and type.

However, you might not have a choice. Most cemeteries require families to install burial vaults to keep the cemetery ground intact and safe.

The law does not compel this requirement in New York, nor is it federal law. Suppose you don’t want one and are not particular about a specific cemetery. In that case, you can ask your funeral director to make arrangements in a different cemetery.

Possible options are:

• hybrid cemeteries that use green burial practices
• conventional cemeteries with dedicated natural burial areas
• natural burial grounds with conservation practices

Alternatively, you can choose cremation. You can keep the urn in your home, scatter the ashes, or have a water burial. Even if you decide to bury the urn, an urn vault is more affordable than a burial vault.

You might also need one if there’s a possibility of exhuming or moving the grave in the future. While a burial vault does not stop decomposition, it will keep the casket intact to make it easier to relocate.

It is especially advisable to install a vault if it’s a home burial and there’s a possibility of selling the property to a developer. Or starting an economic activity.

There you have it. While the purpose is understandable, you shouldn’t feel guilty if you don’t want to buy a burial vault. That’s why it’s crucial to work with a funeral director willing to accommodate your choices.

We’ve got a few of those. We recognize that the most important thing is creating a beautiful setting where families and friends come together to honor you or your loved one. Our Manhasset, NY funeral home is committed to giving you that. Call us today to set up an appointment with one of our directors.