Caskets -

Known for their longevity, metal options like stainless steel can last 50–80 years [5, 12, 23, 33]. High-end materials like bronze and copper are rust-resistant and can endure for over a century [5, 12, 22, 23, 33]. Steel caskets are often categorized by "gauge" (thickness); a lower gauge, like 16-gauge, is thicker and more durable than a 20-gauge model [5, 30].

are rectangular and feature a hinged lid [16, 28, 37]. This design is the standard in North America and is often preferred for open-fiancée viewings [16, 28, 37]. CASKETS

are "anthropoidal," meaning they follow the shape of the human body—wider at the shoulders and tapered at the head and feet [16, 28, 37]. They are more common in European traditions and are often chosen for their simpler, more traditional aesthetic [16, 28]. Understanding Your Material Options Known for their longevity, metal options like stainless

If you are planning a cremation but still want a traditional viewing, many funeral homes offer rental caskets —a high-quality outer shell with a removable, combustible interior liner [22, 27]. are rectangular and feature a hinged lid [16, 28, 37]

Many metal caskets are marketed as "gasketed" or "sealed" [5, 8, 23]. While a rubber gasket does help prevent outside elements like water or soil from entering the casket, it prevent or slow down the natural process of decomposition [5, 8, 12]. Federal regulations even state that these features cannot be marketed as a way to preserve the body indefinitely [5]. Buying Tips: Saving Thousands

Choosing a casket is one of the most personal—and often most expensive—parts of planning a final farewell. Whether you are pre-planning or making an immediate choice for a loved one, understanding your options can help you find a balance between honoring a legacy and staying within a budget. Casket vs. Coffin: What’s the Difference?

The average cost of a casket is between , though high-end models can exceed $10,000 [6, 16, 26].