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Burial Vaults

Often with arrangements for earth burial, families select a burial vault - sometimes referred to as an outer container.  Generally constructed of reinforced concrete, a burial vault serves several purposes. 

Primarily, it protects the casket both from the weight of the earth as the grave is filled, and then over time with the added stress of heavy equipment such as lawn mowers passing over. A burial vault also assures the casket will not be disturbed in the event of an adjacent grave space being opened or an additional interment in the same space.  Some burial vaults incorporate a water proof liner which will make the vault impervious to water and other graveside elements. 

While generally the choice to have a burial vault is a family decision, cemeteries may require one to be used.  Your funeral director will make you aware if the cemetery you have selected has a bylaw requiring an outer container.