Choosing a casket is a personal decision, guided by your loved one’s wishes, family traditions, preferred style, and budget. Understanding the materials and features available can help you make a choice with confidence and peace of mind.
The material and the sealing feature are separate considerations. Steel, stainless steel, solid wood, bronze, and copper describe what a casket is made from. “Sealer” and “non-sealer” describe whether it includes a gasket at the lid.
Metal Non-Sealer Caskets
Metal non-sealer caskets are commonly made from steel and close without a sealing gasket. They offer a simple, dignified option and are generally more affordable than comparable models with a sealing feature.
Metal Sealer Caskets
Metal sealer caskets include a gasket, usually made of rubber, designed to delay water entering through the lid closure. Often called “gasketed” caskets, they offer an additional construction feature. A sealing system does not guarantee permanent protection or prevent the natural process of decomposition.
Steel caskets are commonly available in 20-gauge and 18-gauge options. A lower gauge number means thicker steel, so an 18-gauge casket has thicker steel than a 20-gauge casket. Gauge describes the metal’s thickness, rather than whether the casket seals.
Stainless Steel Caskets
Stainless steel offers greater resistance to rust and corrosion than standard carbon steel. Available in a range of finishes and designs, it provides an option for families who appreciate the appearance of metal with increased corrosion resistance. Sealing features depend on the particular model.
Solid Wood Caskets
Solid wood caskets are chosen for their natural beauty, distinctive grain, and traditional appearance. Options may include mahogany, cherry, oak, and other wood species, each offering its own character and finish. “Solid wood” refers to the construction material, distinguishing it from wood veneer applied over another material.
For families who value warmth and craftsmanship, a solid wood casket can provide a meaningful expression of their loved one’s tastes and traditions.
Bronze Caskets
Bronze caskets are premium metal options valued for their strength, corrosion resistance, and refined appearance. Bronze does not rust like ordinary steel, although it can change over time. These caskets generally sit at the higher end of the price range.
Copper Caskets
Copper caskets offer a distinctive appearance and natural resistance to rust and corrosion. Like bronze, copper is a premium material that can change in appearance over time. Families may choose it for its beauty, craftsmanship, and distinctive finish.
Choosing What Feels Right for Your Family
Every casket option can provide a respectful farewell. Differences in price reflect factors such as material, construction, finish, interior fabric, and personalization—not the depth of a family’s love.
No casket, regardless of its material or sealing features, preserves a loved one’s body indefinitely. Our team is here to explain the available choices, identify the caskets included with each package, and help you select an option that honors your loved one while respecting your budget.