Selecting a burial container is an important part of funeral planning. Some families may assume that all outer casings that house caskets or urns are the same, but there are many different options to choose from. Burial vaults and grave liners are two of the most common. Here’s an explanation of each one to help you make a decision.

Burial Vault

A burial vault is an outer container that’s usually made of strong plastic or metal and completely encloses around a casket or urn. It includes a water-tight seal around the edges that prevents moisture and dirt from entering.

Many models also include an interior liner for extra protection, though some plastic options don’t require this because the material is completely moisture-resistant. This is generally the more expensive option, and some models can be personalized with your loved one’s name or initials.

Grave Liner

Grave liners are generally made of concrete, but some are available in metal or plastic. These strong structures are designed to prevent the ground around a gravesite from collapsing or settling, but they don’t include a seal that prevents moisture and dirt from entering.

Some models include a box that goes around the entire casket or urn, while others simply include a top and sides. This is the more affordable option, but its purpose is to protect the gravesite rather than the interior contents of a casket or urn.

If you’d like guidance through the funeral planning process, A Natural State Funeral Service in Jacksonville, AR, can help. The compassionate team walks families through all of the options to help them create a funeral or memorial service that honors their loved ones. The funeral home also provides pre-planning options for those who want to make their wishes known and simplify the process later on. Visit their website to see a full list of services, or call (501) 982-3400 to start the funeral planning process.