What Is the Average Cost of a Burial Vault?
Gain clarity on burial vault costs. Learn about average prices, the factors that shape them, and what your investment includes.
A burial vault is a protective enclosure placed around a casket within a grave. Its purpose is to prevent the surrounding soil from collapsing and to shield the casket from environmental elements like moisture and pressure. Constructed from durable materials such as concrete, metal, or plastic, these vaults are designed to support the weight of the earth above and help maintain the structural integrity of the gravesite. Many cemeteries require burial vaults as part of their regulations to preserve the safety and appearance of the burial grounds over time.
Average Cost of Burial Vaults
The cost of a burial vault varies significantly based on factors like materials, design, and additional features.
Basic burial vaults, often made from concrete and reinforced with plastic or steel for durability, typically range from $500 to $2,000. These options provide standard protection at an accessible price point for many families.
Mid-range vaults, which may include additional layers of reinforcement such as metal or high-grade plastic linings, generally cost between $2,000 and $4,000. These models offer enhanced durability and sealing for increased protection.
For premium vaults, crafted from polished metals like bronze or copper, or featuring marble or granite exteriors, prices can range from $5,000 to $16,000. Such high-end vaults often incorporate decorative finishes and advanced sealing mechanisms.
Key Factors Influencing Cost
Several factors influence the final price of a burial vault. Materials significantly influence cost. Concrete vaults are generally the most affordable, known for durability and supporting ground pressure. Metal vaults, such as stainless steel, bronze, or copper, are more expensive due to their corrosion resistance and polished finishes. Polymer or plastic vaults are moderately priced and offer a lighter option.
Beyond the primary material, the construction and features of a vault contribute to its cost. Reinforcement, such as plastic or metal linings within a concrete core, increases durability and protection, leading to higher prices. Sealing mechanisms, including tongue-and-groove designs or the use of butyl tape, enhance the vault’s ability to keep moisture out and are reflected in the price. Some vaults also incorporate an air seal, which uses air pressure to further protect the casket from external elements.
Decorative elements and personalization options also impact the cost. These can include customized finishes, engravings, metal caps, vinyl appliqués, or specialized handles. The size of the vault can also play a role, as larger units require more material and may involve higher manufacturing costs. The brand or manufacturer of the vault can influence pricing, with established names often having different pricing structures for their products.
What Burial Vault Cost Covers
The price of a burial vault typically includes the vault unit itself, which consists of a base and a lid designed to encase the casket. This covers the manufacturing and material costs of the chosen vault type. The quoted price often extends to services beyond just the physical product.
Commonly, the cost includes the delivery of the vault to the gravesite. Once at the cemetery, the price also covers the placement of the vault into the prepared grave.
Following the placement, the service typically includes the lowering of the casket into the vault. The final step covered by the vault purchase price is the sealing or closing of the vault, which secures the casket within its protective enclosure. While these services are generally part of the vault purchase, separate cemetery fees for grave opening and closing may also apply.