A Short Guide to The Best Types of Burial Urns

May 15, 2023

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cremation services in Walla Walla WA

As we approach the end of life, making arrangements for our final resting place is a necessary task. While burial may seem like a traditional choice, the type of urn you choose can have a significant impact on the longevity and preservation of your remains. While  cremation services in Walla Walla, WA provide temporary containers for your remains, it’s up to you to get the right permanent urn. If you’re having a burial, this article will help. 

1. Biodegradable Urns  

As the name suggests, biodegradable urns are designed to decompose naturally over time, releasing the ashes into the earth. These urns are an eco-friendly option for those who want to minimize their impact on the environment. Biodegradable urns are made from materials like paper, salt, sand, and cornstarch. 

Pros

  • Eco-friendly option 
  • Allows the ashes to return to nature 
  • Affordable option 

Cons

  • Not as durable as other urns 
  • Limited design options 

2. Metal Urns  

After ceramic urns, metal urns are the most popular urn choice for families. Made with materials like bronze and stainless steel, they are sturdy and aesthetically pleasing. They can also be customized with engravings and other design features. While this makes them ideal for a burial, especially when you wish to preserve the ashes for decades, it also makes them pricier than other options. 

Pros

  • Durable  
  • Can be personalized with engravings and designs 
  • Offers a wide range of options in terms of color, design, and size 

Cons: 

  • More expensive than other urns 
  • Metal urns may corrode over time 

3. Ceramic Urns  

Affordability and suitability to different needs makes ceramic urns the most popular urn option for families. They are sturdy enough to be used for burial, and aesthetically malleable for different tastes. These urns are typically made from fired clay and are easily accessible. You can buy them online, from a local funeral home, or commission a local artist to make one. 

Pros

  • Available in endless designs 
  • Moderately durable 

Cons

  • Requires urn vault for lasting protection 

4. Burial Urn Vaults  

Burial urn vaults are designed to protect the urn and its contents from the elements and ensure that the remains are preserved for years to come. These vaults are typically made from reinforced concrete or composite materials and are designed to withstand the weight of the earth.  

Unlike the other options on this list, urn vaults mainly serve a protective purpose. They have limited design variations and are only available in square or rectangular shapes. Still, minor customizations like paintings and engravings are possible. 

Pros

  • Provides an extra layer of protection for the urn and its contents 
  • Ensures the longevity and preservation of the remains 
  • Offers generational peace of mind 

Cons

  • More expensive than other urn options 
  • Limited customization options 

cremation service in Walla Walla WA

So, which urn is better for burial? The answer is it depends. Every family has its own aims when it comes to cremation burials and should choose the one that suits them. For instance, biodegradable urn is better for water burials while metal urns works best for cemeteries and other locations. It’s also necessary to take cemetery requirements into consideration. 

But one thing is clear. Whatever your burial needs, there’s an urn for you. And if memorial service or celebration of life to go with the burial ceremony, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our Walla Walla, WA cremation service is available 24/7 to help you make arrangements