Caskets - There’s A Choice.

Answer 1

n preplanning funeral arrangements, many people choose a funeral home, outline music requests and order of the service, choose a charitable contribution in lieu of flowers, select pallbearers, and some even prepay the funeral so nothing is left for the grieving relatives to worry about. By far the most costly item of the funeral will be the casket. How does one choose from such a wide variety?

Perhaps the primary consideration for many people is the expense. Caskets, on average, cost about $2000, but can range as high as $10,000. Some people believe that purchasing an expensive casket conveys their high regard of the deceased, and that purchasing a less expensive one would seem callous. Others believe that the body is only a container for the soul and when a person dies the soul leaves the body. Therefore, a casket is merely a container for the body, hence less important. A person who plans his own burial will be able to choose his own casket and manner of disposal.

Types of Caskets

There are several different types of caskets from which to choose.

• Cloth-covered caskets are usually constructed with fiberboard and pressed wood, and are covered with cloth. The interior contains bedding and are lined, similar to other caskets. The least expensive of the choices, this casket is rarely chosen because most people feel it looks cheap.

• Veneer caskets are more presentable, and therefore more acceptable, than cloth-covered. Construction is similar to cloth-covered but is covered with a wood veneer.

• “Green” caskets are eco-friendly. Persons who feel strongly about preserving the environment can rest easy when purchasing this fairly inexpensive casket, since it is constructed of wood such as bamboo and have a low impact on the environment.

• Steel caskets can be purchased in a variety of thicknesses, and are a popular choice.

• Hardwood caskets are the most impressive. Depending on the wood used, the design requested, and workmanship, the expense will range from moderately to extremely expensive.

Remember the primary purpose of a casket is to provide a means to tastefully move the deceased from one location (the church or funeral home) to another (the cemetery). Some funeral homes will rent a casket for the duration of the service, and then bury the remains in another. Choose the version that is right for you.