Why Are Burial Vaults Required In Cemeteries?

By: Tom Gallagher
Friday, February 17, 2023

Most people who have lost a family member or close friend choose to have the deceased laid to rest at a cemetery. We've seen here at Sholom Chapel that many clients visiting Stamford Funeral Homes, are caught off guard by the idea that they need to get a burial vault.

When a person dies, their casket is placed in a burial vault placed in the pit before lowering casket. Grave liners and burial vaults are often used in cemeteries because they reduce the maintenance required to maintain the ground uniformly.

What Are Burial Vaults?

Burial vaults are structures made of concrete, steel, or fiberglass that are designed to support the weight of the earth and other heavy objects above a grave. They are needed in cemeteries where the ground is more likely to settle, or the grave is more likely to sink.

Stamford Funeral Homes will tell you that the vault also helps to protect the casket from the elements and helps to prevent the ground from shifting over time. They provide a longer-lasting, more secure burial and are a common feature in many cemeteries. Additionally, they can be used to store mementos, such as flowers or keepsakes, or to provide a place for a family or friends to gather for a graveside service.

Why Do Cemeteries Have Burial Vaults?

Cemeteries have burial vaults for various reasons, including the following:

  • Burial vaults ensure the caskets or urns remain in place and do not drift or sink due to erosion caused by groundwater.
  • They help protect against environmental elements that can damage the casket or urn buried in the ground.
  • They are essential in providing a stable surface for cemetery equipment, like lawnmowers and digging equipment, to traverse over without damaging the graves.
  • Burial vaults come in various materials, from concrete to metal, and are designed to withstand the elements and preserve the integrity of the grave for many years. Funeral directors at Stamford Funeral Homes can help you with the burial vault selection.

Do I have to Get a Burial Vault For a Casket Or Urn?

A burial vault is not always required by law, but some cemeteries require a burial vault or grave liner to be used. As mentioned, a burial vault/grave liner helps prevent the ground from caving in and collapsing over time while helping to protect the casket or urn from the elements.

If you are unsure whether you need a burial vault or grave liner for your casket or urn, you should contact the cemetery or Stamford Funeral Homes you have shortlisted. The cemetery staff will be able to provide you with specific information on what is required for burial in the cemetery.

Why Work With An Established Jewish Funeral Home?

Working with a reliable Jewish funeral home is essential for several reasons, such as:

  • The funeral home will be able to provide a religious and culturally appropriate funeral service, including providing a suitable burial vault.
  • They will be knowledgeable about the religious and cultural customs associated with a Jewish funeral and will be able to provide a service that meets these requirements.
  • The establishment will be able to provide support and advice to the family of the deceased.
  • They will assist in navigating the Jewish mourning traditions and help the family understand their obligations and duties.
  • The experts there will provide support during and after the funeral, such as arranging the burial, making sure you have the correct type of burial vault, and helping with paperwork.
  • They will be able to provide a funeral service tailored to the deceased's religious and cultural beliefs. They will be able to create a meaningful and respectful funeral experience that honors the deceased.

Contact One Of The Most Well Recognized Stamford Funeral Homes

Contact Overall, working with a reliable Jewish funeral home like ours is essential for ensuring that a Jewish funeral is conducted per religious and cultural beliefs. The funeral home will be able to provide support, advice, and a meaningful funeral service that honors the deceased.

For more information about our burial and funeral services, call us at (310) 659-3055 or (818) 899-5215. Please use this Contact Us form to send us a message, don't hesitate to get in touch with Sholom Chapel, one of the most well-established Stamford Funeral Homes. We will revert soon to discuss your requirements. 

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