Everything You Need to Know About Choosing a Casket

Choosing a casket is something that no one wants to do, but it’s a necessary part of the funeral planning process. The decision is one that should be handled with great care and thought regarding several different factors. Let’s look at some of the different types of caskets and learn how to make this difficult choice a little bit easier. 

Before you start the casket-choosing process, consider the wishes of the deceased. Would they prefer a thoughtfully designed, luxury casket with a more stately appearance or a simple, eco-friendly, budget-friendly one? If you’re unsure what type of casket they would have preferred, allow your heart to lead the way. View the casket options and see what feels “right” when you think of the deceased.

Ultimately, it’s important to remember that there’s no such thing as a right or wrong casket choice - so don’t be too hard on yourself during this already challenging time. If you’re still struggling to choose, the funeral home staff can be extremely helpful in selecting a high-quality casket that fits your budget.

There’s a clear distinction between high-end and regular caskets. High-end caskets are typically made of bronze, copper, or hardwood. Bronze and copper are wonderful choices because of their natural anti-rusting abilities and long-lasting durability. Hardwood caskets are also quite durable, and you can choose from a selection of finishes and varnishes to get the exact style you’re looking for.

Steel and softwood caskets are categorized as “regular” caskets because the materials are still durable but easier and more affordable to source, lowering the cost of the casket. Steel and softwood caskets can be finished, varnished, and painted just like high-end caskets, so the appearance at the time of the funeral is very similar. The big difference comes in add-on features and durability for years to come.

Casket features like a velvet or silk interior lining, personalized medallions, and more detailed handles are more commonly seen with high-end caskets due to the increased price point that these features bring.

While you should choose a casket you feel good about, you shouldn’t spend the entire funeral budget on the casket alone. Speak with the funeral director to determine the ideal price point for a casket. This is the best way to understand better what type of casket you can afford and how it stacks up against other caskets. Prices can be as low as $500 and as high as $30,000 or more, so there truly is something for everyone.

If you’d like to learn more about choosing a casket and view our current inventory, contact Hamel-Lydon to connect with one of our experienced staff members. We know planning for a funeral is a challenging thing to deal with after a loss, which is why our staff is patient and compassionate in guiding you to make the right decisions for your loved one. Contact us today at 617-472-5888 for more information.