Vaults and Grave Liners - Outer Burial Containers (OBC)

Grave Liners $895

Vaults $1295

When planning funeral or burial arrangements, you may find yourself choosing between a grave liner and a burial vault. While both are designed to support the burial site and protect the casket or urn, they differ significantly in structure, durability, and purpose. Understanding the distinctions between the two can help you make a decision that aligns with your preferences, values, and budget. Read on to explore the key features of each option and determine which might be the most appropriate choice for your needs.

What Is a Grave Liner?

A grave liner is a burial receptacle designed to enclose a casket or urn, either partially or entirely, once it is placed in the ground. Typically made of concrete or durable plastic, a grave liner is shaped like a box or dome and is installed within the cemetery plot to provide structural support.

The primary function of a grave liner is to prevent the ground above a burial site from sinking or becoming uneven over time. Without this support, the casket may collapse under the weight of the earth, leading to a sunken or disfigured grave, which can create safety hazards and aesthetic concerns for the cemetery.

Unlike burial vaults, grave liners are not sealed tightly. Because concrete is naturally porous, moisture and soil may still enter the liner and reach the casket, potentially accelerating its decomposition. To address this, some liners have holes drilled into them. This helps stabilize the liner in areas with high water tables by allowing groundwater to flow through, reducing the risk of the liner being displaced or pushed upward.

What Is a Burial Vault?

A burial vault is a type of outer burial container designed to provide enhanced protection and structural integrity for a casket. Unlike a grave liner, a burial vault offers full enclosure—completely surrounding the casket on all sides, including the top and bottom.

Burial vaults are constructed with greater tensile strength to withstand the pressure from soil, heavy machinery, and environmental elements. Their design helps prevent external materials such as dirt, water, and moisture from entering and reaching the casket, significantly slowing down the natural process of decomposition.

Many burial vaults are made from concrete with an interior lining of non-porous materials such as plastic, metal or painted epoxy sealant which further protects against water intrusion. The lid is sealed with butyl tape or similar water-resistant materials to create a tight, secure closure. These added features make burial vaults a more robust and long-lasting option compared to grave liners.

How Are They Different?

1. Protection

A burial vault offers significantly more protection for the casket than a grave liner. Grave liners typically have no interior liner or secure seal and often feature drainage holes at the base. As a result, moisture and soil can enter, creating an environment that may accelerate the casket’s deterioration. While a grave liner does help prevent the ground above from collapsing, it may itself degrade over time under pressure.

In contrast, a burial vault includes a sealed lid and a non-porous polymer or epoxy coated liner, creating a dry, secure environment that protects the casket from water, dirt, and other external elements. The vault’s durable materials and seal help maintain the structural integrity of the grave over a much longer period, minimizing ground settlement and maintaining a clean, contained burial space.

2. Cost and Installation Time

Grave liners are generally less expensive and quicker to install than burial vaults. They are often chosen when the goal is to meet basic cemetery requirements with minimal expense. This makes them suitable for families seeking a practical, no-frills solution.

On the other hand, burial vaults come with higher manufacturing and material costs, partly due to their added features such as reinforced linings, secure seals, and customizable finishes. They are a more substantial investment but provide long-term peace of mind and enhanced protection.

Final Choice

Now that you’re familiar with the key differences between a grave liner and a burial vault, the decision ultimately comes down to your priorities—whether you place greater value on cost, aesthetic appeal, or the level of protection provided.

If affordability and fulfilling basic cemetery requirements are most important, a grave liner is likely the more practical option. However, if long-term preservation, durability, and personalization matter more to you, investing in a burial vault may offer the peace of mind you're looking for.

And if you're still searching for the perfect casket or urn, be sure to explore Budget Casket and Monuments thoughtfully curated collection for high-quality, customizable options that suit every need.