Before the funeral and burial of a deceased loved one, a family might hold a wake. At the viewing, mourners walk by the casket and pay their respects. Doing so can provide closure and aid in the healing process. For help choosing a material, below is a brief overview of available options.

How to Pick a Material for a Casket

1. Wood

There are many different tiers of hardwoods, with the top usually costing the most. Cherry, walnut, and mahogany are top-tier, available in glistening finishes that enhance the natural grain patterns. In the mid-range category, oak has an intricate grain pattern, and maple has considerable hardness and durability. Pine and poplar are less expensive materials, but you can finish and polish them to appear high-end.

You can add gaskets to any wooden casket to prevent water infiltration. Additionally, craftsmen can etch intricate details into the surfaces of hardwood to personalize it for your loved one.

2. Metal

The interior of metal caskets won’t wear as quickly as wooden counterparts. That’s because rubber gaskets line the shell perimeter, providing an air-tight seal to keep the lid closed. With rust-resistant properties, solid bronze and copper can withstand significant air and moisture.

Available in different finishes, stainless steel models are less costly than bronze and copper but thick and heavy for durability. If you pick this option, smaller gauge numbers correspond to thicker steel.

3. Fiberglass

Although durable, fiberglass caskets are lighter than metal and wooden models. During manufacturing, you can paint the material in various colors, giving each one a unique look. Technicians can also apply textures and finishes to mimic the look of wood, stone, or metal.

If you’ve lost a family member, contact Morris Funeral Home Inc, in Wayne, WV. In business since 1932, the funeral directors are on call 24/7 to help families in Wayne and Cabell counties create tributes for their deceased loved ones. To learn more about the cremation and burial services and pre-planning arrangements, call (304) 272-5171. For information about their services, visit them online. Find announcements on Facebook.