Four Different Types of Burials & How to Choose the Best Option

Considering types of burials for you or your loved one can be a difficult decision to make. Throughout history, people of many communities have venerated the deceased by way of burial or incineration. However, there are many types of burials to choose from today. This guide takes an in-depth look at four different types of burials, so you can make the best decision for you or your loved one. 

Contemporary Types of Burials

There may be four primary forms of burial, but scientific discoveries and technological advances make it possible for anyone to be buried or memorialized in a unique way. We've broken down the traditional types of burials available today.

In-Ground Burials 

This traditional type of burial generally requires a casket and involves some sort of memorial tribute to the deceased. The body of the deceased is interned within a metal or wooden case before being lowered into an excavated site and covered with soil. Caskets, headstones, and accessories can be purchased individually, but many families decide to purchase them all together to save costs in the long run. In-ground burials may be accompanied by a burial service to commemorate the deceased’s final resting place and provide a sense of closure for family members and friends. If this type of burial sounds like the right fit, Legacy Headstones offers flat, upright, and premium headstones you can choose from. 

Above Ground Burials

There are several kinds of above-ground burials, but the most common occur in lawn crypts and community or private mausoleums. Lawn crypts provide many of the benefits of mausoleum entombment with the timeless tradition of in-ground burials. Mausoleums, on the other hand, provide secure enclosures that will remain clean and dry. If the added prestige of being entombed inside a structure appeals to you, a mausoleum may be the best choice. On the other hand, if the notion of being buried next to a loved one appeals to you, a lawn crypt may be the most suitable option.

Cremation

Immolation recently surpassed burial as the most popular end-of-life service. The body of the deceased is exposed to temperatures ranging from 1,400 to 1,800°F. Such intense heat will reduce the body to ash and bone fragments. Most families decide to scatter or keep cremated ashes after the funeral ceremony. Cremation is growing in popularity because it tends to be less expensive and uses far fewer resources than other types of burials. If cremation sounds like the best available option, Legacy Headstones can help you with selecting a special cremation urn and more. 

Natural Burial

The natural burial is often confused with green burials. Although they are not the same, they both give way to natural decomposition without the use of embalming fluid, a casket, or a burial vault. Instead, the body of the deceased is placed directly into the earth. This burial option has little to no impact on the environment. Some people may choose to be buried in biodegradable caskets, which are usually made of bamboo, hemp, wool, felt, cotton, cork, teak, willow, rattan, seagrass, leaves, recycled cardboard or other “low impact” materials. Green burials take place in cemeteries that use no artificial pesticides.

Choose Legacy Headstones For Your Customized Headstone Needs

At Legacy Headstones, we understand a decision process such as considering types of burials can be difficult. Our team of experts can provide information and guidance during this time. We're also here to offer you premium customized headstones to commemorate the final resting place. For more information about our products, contact us today.