BURIAL VAULTS

Outer Burial Containers - Smith-Lund-Mills offers a full selection of outer burial containers for caskets or urns.

• Not all outer burial containers provide the same protection. There are three basic types of burial receptacles: The sectional grave liner, the grave box and the lined burial vault. The sectional grave liner is basically sections of cement lining the interior of the grave with no bottom. The grave box, an unlined concrete box with holes in the base, allowing ground water to escape. For the most protection, you'll want to consider a lined burial vault, a long-lasting receptacle with its coated exterior, domed lid and lined interior. We offer them in wide range of styles.
  
• What is a burial vault?
  A burial vault is a protective outer container for the casket. Though not required by law in Oregon, most cemeteries regulations require an outer burial container. Many families select a burial vault for the additional peace of mind it brings. A reinforced burial vault provides long-lasting protection needed to resist elements and physical conditions-including ground water, and weight from heavy equipment-over time. The burial vault also protects the casket and keeps the ground intact, thus preserving the beauty of the cemetery.
  
• Why is protection important?
  Operating a modern cemetery can require heavy equipment-a backhoe for opening and closing graves, as well as tractors for maintaining the grounds. A strong durable vault provides greater protection from the weight of that equipment. All reinforced vaults are designed to help protect the casket from the elements.
  
• What role does the vault play?
  A well designed vault plays an important role at the graveside, as the final resting place for the casket. The strength and beauty of the vault adds an extra sense of permanence and dignity to the graveside ceremony.
  
• The Interment Process
  1. Cemetery workers open the grave.
  
  2. The Burial Vault is delivered and installed.
  3. The family and friends gather at the gravesite for the interment.
  
  4. The funeral professional observes final preparations for interment.
  
  5. The Burial Vault is lowered into grave.
  6. The grave is filled, compacted, and later seeded.