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Caskets are mostly nailed shut, or screwed into place.
Some higher end metal caskets have a rubber gasket that seals the casket when the lid is closed and locked down. These type's of caskets do not protect the body from decomposition. In fact, it will actually speed up the process substantially. You can find more information on the controversy by searching for "sealer caskets controversy" on Google.
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Why do coffins have to be nailed down?
Only those caskets are air (and water) tight which are "sealer" caskets, meaning that they are provided with a rubber like sealing gasket between the lid and the base of the caskets. Usually only metal caskets can be sealer caskets.
When did sealed caskets become normal in America?
Probably some years after the Second World War. Before that, usually rather expensive glass sealer caskets were used if a "protective" casket was requested. After the war, the Batesville Casket Company pioneered the use of reasonably priced gasket sealer caskets.
When soldiers are sent home why are their coffins made of steel?
Probably because steel caskets (or caskets made of other metals) can be sealed hermetically, meaning that they can be made airtight and watertight, which is requested for long distance shipments of remains.
Are caskets air tight?
Only those caskets are air (and water) tight which are "sealer" caskets, meaning that they are provided with a rubber like sealing gasket between the lid and the base of the caskets. Usually only metal caskets can be sealer caskets.
Why were Vietnam casualties in caskets under glass?
"Glass sealer" caskets (protective caskets with an inner glass lid) are an older type of "sealer caskets" (caskets providing an air and watertight seal). Later (for example in the Gulf War) the remains of soldiers were shipped back in glassless "gasket sealer" caskets.
Where can one find caskets for sale?
One can find caskets for sale at mortuaries and funeral supply stores, for example Costco. Caskets are also for sale at Sears, Walmart, and Caskets By Design.
Are mahogany caskets more expensive than other wooden caskets?
Usually yes - as long as one compares caskets of similar design, similar thickness of wood and similar interiors.
How large can caskets be?
In the United States, standard caskets for adults have a length between 80 and 83 inches. Industrially manufactured oversize caskets are up to 96" long. Hand crafted caskets can be even longer.
What do you use to open a locked coffin?
For metal caskets usually a crank. With old style wooden caskets, the lid often has to be unscrewed.
What are the release dates for Hands on History - 2001 Caskets?
Hands on History - 2001 Caskets was released on: USA: 23 October 2004
What are the different types of metal caskets?
Metal caskets are available in carbon steel, copper, bronze, and stainless steel. Carbon steel caskets are available in different gauges, ranging from 20 gauge (the thinnest) to 16 gauge (the thickest)
Are coffins placed in concrete containers before burial?
Not always and never in countries where the graves are used over again. In the US the practice of placing the caskets in concrete (or metal) containers is very common although there is no law requiring it. Many cemeteries demand grave liners or burial vaults (hermetically sealed grave liners) to prevent the grave from caving in when heavy machinery is used on the lawn or when wooden caskets deteriorate.
