If you are planning a cremation service in Des Moines, IA, but want to include a viewing or choose to have a burial for your loved one, picking the right casket is crucial. Since this is not a typical purchase, it could be confusing which one to choose and where to get started, so let’s look at five great options to consider.
Casket Types
As you first start searching for different kinds of caskets, it may feel overwhelming because there are so widely different varieties. While a cremation casket can begin at around $500, burial or viewing varieties can come in at a much higher price ranging into the thousands of dollars. Some of the most common types include:
1. Metal
Metal caskets are marketed as the most durable option available and will be rated on their thickness. For example, a 16-gauge meal will be thicker than an 18-gauge but more expensive due to the metal’s density. You can also purchase them with a seal or gasket, which can help slow down the number of elements that get inside the container but will not help preserve the body in any form.
2. Wood
Wood caskets will vary in price depending on the type of species used. It’s also dependent on the quality of the construction, and the prices will range from higher-end options like mahogany, cherry, or walnut down to lower-priced materials like willow, pine, and poplar.
3. Copper
Bronze and copper are separate from metal as the quality is determined differently. With this option, instead of engaging the system, it will be based on Weight and can be several oz per square foot. Bronze and copper are popular because they don’t rust the same way a metal casket will; however, they will eventually begin to oxidize and break down.
4. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is more durable than a standard metal casket and has a higher corrosion resistance level. You could also cover them in a wood veneer to offer the look of traditional wood while still having the durability of metal.
5. Biodegradable
If choosing a traditional material doesn’t feel appropriate, biodegradable options or eco-friendly choices exist. In most cases, these caskets do not have any hinges or metal attached and are made of materials like cardboard, woven fibers, or produced with untreated wood for a quicker and more natural breakdown.
Other Considerations
Caskets come in two options, the full couch that opens completely or a half-couch that will be divided into two sections to support the viewing. Customization options are also available, including color-coordinating the liner or adding images or phrases to the exterior.
When You Need Trusted and Affordable Services, We are Here to Help
The biggest consideration is ensuring that you choose an appropriate casket because this can help create a more memorable event for the loved one. And if you need to schedule a professional cremation service in Des Moines, IA, our team is here to support you through the process. We understand the pain of loss and have served our local community with integrity and honesty since 1982, so contact us today for more information about our services or have any questions.
