Guide to Casket Selection
Types of Caskets
Metal Caskets
- Steel (various gauges)
- Stainless steel
- Copper
- Bronze
- Protective sealing available
Wood Caskets
- Pine
- Oak
- Maple
- Cherry
- Mahogany
Alternative Options
- Eco-Friendly Choices
- Biodegradable materials
- Wicker or bamboo
- Unfinished wood
- Cardboard (for cremation)
- Specialty Options
- Oversized caskets
- Military themes
- Custom designs
- Religious specifications
Price Ranges
Average Costs by Material
- Basic steel: $2,000-$3,000
- Premium steel: $4,000-$7,000
- Copper/Bronze: $8,000-$20,000
- Basic wood: $2,000-$3,000
- Premium wood: $5,000-$10,000
- Eco-friendly: $1,000-$3,000
Features to Consider
- Interior
- Fabric type and quality
- Pillow and lining options
- Color choices
- Memory drawers
- Exterior
- Finish options
- Hardware style
- Corner designs
- Personalization options
Consumer Rights
FTC Funeral Rule Protections
- Right to detailed price list
- Can purchase from outside sources
- No requirement for "protective" caskets
- Can use alternative containers for cremation
- No required purchases for specific services
Selection Tips
- Set a budget before viewing options
- Consider long-term plans (burial vs. entombment)
- Review material durability
- Check cemetery requirements
- Consider environmental impact
- Ask about warranties
Common Questions
- Are gaskets or sealing features necessary?
No, they're optional and don't preserve remains indefinitely.
- Can I buy online or from another source?
Yes, funeral homes must accept caskets from other sources.
- What's required for cremation?
A combustible container is required; elaborate caskets aren't necessary.
Personalization Options
- Custom Panels
- Religious symbols
- Military insignia
- Hobby themes
- Personal photos
- Engraving
- Names and dates
- Messages
- Symbols
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