There are plenty of options when choosing an urn for a burial. Each type has its benefits and drawbacks, which can make the decision-making process overwhelming. This is particularly true when it’s your first experience with a cremation service in Marlton, NJ. Below, we’ll discuss the best types of urns for burial, their pros and cons, and provide some guidance to help you make an informed decision.
Ceramic Urns
Ceramic urns are a popular choice for their elegant appearance and durability. They are made from fired clay, which makes them resistant to water and weather damage. Their malleable material also means they come in different shapes, sizes, and colors. You don’t have to choose a boring option and can always find one that best reflects your loved one’s personality.
Pros:
- Variety of shapes, sizes, and colors
- Elegant and decorative appearance
Cons:
- May be fragile and prone to breakage if mishandled
- May require an urn burial vault for lasting protection
Wooden Urns
Wooden urns are a classic and traditional choice for burial. They come in oak, cherry, and walnut and are handcrafted with intricate designs or engravings. While this makes them more expensive than machine-designed urns, they remain generally affordable. Wooden urns provide a natural, warm look that blends seamlessly with different surroundings.
Pros:
- Classic and traditional appearance
- Warm and natural look
- Often handcrafted with intricate designs or engravings
Cons:
- May be susceptible to damage from moisture or insects if not properly treated
- May not be as durable as some other types of urns
Metal Urns
Metal urns are a sturdy, durable option with a modern, sleek look. They are the best if you want to avoid buying an urn vault and want to protect the ashes for years. Common materials include stainless steel and bronze, both resistant to rust and corrosion. Metal urns are also popular among families who want a contemporary and minimalist look.
Pros:
- Modern and sleek appearance
- Sturdy and durable
- Resistant to rust and corrosion
- No need for a burial vault
Cons:
- Heavier than other types of urns
- May not have as much decorative detail as other types of urns
- More expensive
Biodegradable Urns
Biodegradable urns are a unique and environmentally friendly option for burial. Typically made from recycled paper, bamboo, salt, and other materials that break down over time, they allow the ashes to return to the earth. Biodegradable urns are perfect for families who want a green burial or want their loved one’s ashes to dissolve into the ground over time. They are also the right choice for water burial and burials in other sensitive locations because of their biodegradable nature.
Pros:
- Environmentally friendly
- Break down over time, allowing the ashes to return to the earth
- Variety of materials to choose from
Cons:
- Not as durable as some other types of urns
- Limited decorative options
We’ve mentioned burial urn vaults a couple of times so far. A burial urn vault is a protective container designed to encase the urn and protect it from the elements and damage. Burial urn vaults are often made of durable materials such as concrete or steel, providing an extra layer of protection for the urn.
Pros:
- Provides an extra layer of protection for the urn
- Helps prevent damage from the elements or external pressure
Cons:
- More expensive than other types of urns
- More rigid design with primarily square or rectangular options
Whether or not to use a burial urn vault comes down to personal preference and the specific circumstances of the burial. In most cases, it’s better to discuss with your Marlton, NJ cremation service provider to determine if it’s necessary for you.