Choosing a Casket for Your Loved One

Choosing a casket is an important part of the funeral process. Many families choose the casket after their loved one has passed, but some people choose their casket ahead of time. This article will discuss the difference between wood and metal caskets. Caskets can vary in style, color, cost, and comfort. They are also highly customizable. Below, we will discuss some of the important characteristics of caskets to choose from.

Metal vs Wood Caskets

Metal caskets are extremely durable. Generally, metal caskets are made of steel, stainless steel, bronze, or copper. Some metal caskets feature gaskets, a type of rubber seal that helps keep outside elements out of the casket for longer. More opulent metal caskets may feature thicker or higher-quality metals. Some may also feature stylized effects such as brushed metal.
Wood caskets are generally selected because of their natural beauty, warmth, and craftsmanship. Premium wood caskets are often crafted out of mahogany, cherry, and walnut. Less expensive caskets are usually made from hardwoods such as poplar. Some wooded caskets are made of hardwood but will be covered in a thin veneer of premium wood. This is a good way to have an elegant casket while saving on costs. Wood caskets more often feature handcrafted designs and interiors than metal caskets. Additionally, wood caskets are more customizable than metal. They will often come in a wide variety of colors, whereas metal caskets often have less extensive color options.

Casket Lining

Caskets have plush material along the interior to make the casket look and feel comfortable. The padding is then covered with lining. The lining is usually either satin, velvet, or polyester. These options can vary in color and style. Velvet is the most expensive of the 3, with satin being next in cost.

Customizations

Caskets can have an array of customizable options depending on the make and model. Some will have added grab rails on the sides for pallbearers. Families may want to get their loved one’s name etched or engraved into the casket. Emblems and insignias, especially for military service, can also be included in exterior customizations. Interior customizations can include ornamental designs, embroideries, and more.

Sizes

For larger or smaller individuals, size considerations can be important. Taller or wider individuals may need deluxe casket sizes. 

Renting a Casket

If you do not plan on burying your loved one in a casket, such as in the event of a cremation, you can always rent a casket. Some families prefer to have a casket for the funeral, either before cremation, or an empty (closed) casket to stand as a placeholder. 

Finding the Right Fit

The best way to choose a casket is to see your options in person. Getting a feel for the interior options, as well as how elegant a casket is in person allows you to make a more informed decision regarding your or your loved one’s final resting place. Our knowledgeable staff can assist you in making this choice in our casket showroom. We will help you find the right casket for your tastes and budget. We also offer casket rentals for the memorial services and before cremation. 

For over 50 years, Matthew Funeral Home has been serving the Staten Island community. We can help with almost every aspect of your loved one’s memorial service. Our family is here to serve yours, every step of the way.