A Casket or A Coffin?

Casket vs Coffin

But what is a coffin? What is a casket? Are there any differences between the two? If you’re asking these questions, you’re not alone. Many people researching funeral homes in Jacksonville, FL want to know the differences, if any, between caskets and coffins.

If you’ve watched a movie or a TV show, you’ve probably heard the term “coffin.” While both coffins and caskets are burial containers used to hold remains of a deceased person for a funeral, wake, visitation and final disposition, in the United States most people use the more modern casket.

However, the choice between the two is ultimately the family’s or the deceased depending on final wishes. The main differences begin in the details. For starters, a casket is a special box made to hold the remains of a deceased person. These boxes are made in rectangular shapes with four sides and hinged lids.

 

What is a Casket?

A casket is a box in which the body of a deceased person is placed for burial. Caskets vary in size and style, but most have a hinged lid that can be opened to view the body before burial. In many cultures, the casket is an essential part of the funeral ritual, and it may be ornately decorated or inscribed with religious symbols. While the casket is not essential for burial, it provides a dignified and respectful way to transport and inter the body.

 

Difference Between Coffin and Casket

Caskets also usually have handles that make them easier to life and move and can be used for both cremations and burials depending on the material. Caskets can be made from a variety of materials, but the two most common are wood and metal. The average metal casket is made from stainless steel and the average wood from mahogany or oak. Most caskets are finished with soft interior linings to give the deceased a comfortable place to rest.

On the other hand, coffins have six sides and are wider on the top than on the bottom. This tapered design was chosen to match the shape of the body as shoulders are wider than feet. Coffins also do not have hinged lids. Instead, they have removable lids that must be fully lifted.

 

What are Coffins Made of?

The vast majority of coffins are made out of wood and are also finished with cloth interior linings, but they do not have exterior handles for carrying. In fact, any additional decoration or handles are not considered part of the coffin but are instead called “coffin furniture.” Traditionally coffin furniture is used to display the deceased’s wealth or status. The other big difference between caskets and coffins is price. Caskets are generally more expensive as they have more decoration and use more elaborate materials. Coffins, on the other hand, require less material as the tapered shape uses less wood and thus lowers the overall price.

 

What Are the Most Common Types of Caskets?

There are a variety of caskets available on the market, but the most requested types are:

• Wood Casket: A wood casket has a natural beauty and can be crafted to showcase any design. It is also biodegradable, so it can be buried in the earth without harming the environment. Wood caskets offer a natural and classic look that many families choose for their loved ones. They also tend to be sturdier than other materials, making them a good choice for those who want a lasting memorial. Additionally, wood caskets can be customized to match the deceased’s personality and style.
• Metal Casket: A metal casket is a type of burial casket made from metal. They are often more expensive than other types of caskets, but they have some advantages. They can also resist fire and water damage, making them a good option for families who want to ensure their loved one’s remains are protected no matter what happens. Lastly, metal caskets often have a more high-end look and feel than other types of caskets, making them a popular choice for those who want their loved one’s funeral to be as elegant as possible.
• Cremation Casket: A cremation casket is a type of coffin designed to be cremated. It is typically made from wood or cardboard and is much lighter than a traditional burial casket. Cremation caskets typically have a removable lid so the body can be placed inside for cremation.
• Green Casket: A green casket is a biodegradable casket made of materials like bamboo, willow, or cardboard that can be buried in the ground without harming the environment. Others choose them because they believe the body should return to earth naturally after death. Whatever the reason, choosing a green casket is one way to show respect for the environment and celebrate a life well lived.

 

Are Coffins Still Used Today?

Coffins are not often used today, as caskets are more common. Most people choose caskets instead, which are similar but have a more solid top. They were more popular in the past when burial shrouds were not common, but they are now mostly seen as an outdated tradition.

 

Which Is Cheaper Coffin or Casket?

A coffin is a less expensive option than a casket. A casket is often made of more expensive materials, and its construction is generally more complex. In the United States, caskets are generally more expensive than coffins. There are several reasons for this:

• First, caskets are often made of more expensive materials, such as hardwoods or metals.
• Second, caskets usually have more elaborate designs and features, such as handles and hinges.
• Finally, caskets are typically sold by funeral homes, while coffins are often sold by independent retailers

It is important to note that it may be hard to find a coffin manufacturer as they are not in style and not as popular.  At the end of the day, the differences between caskets and coffins don’t matter even though they are very similar. All that matters is that you choose whatever is right for your lost loved one and your family.

Naugle Funeral Home & Cremation Services is a Jacksonville, FL funeral home with the experience, compassion and expertise needed to offer you additional information on caskets, coffins and other funeral services to help you plan a service that will honor and remember your lost loved one. Call us today for more information.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do they put people in caskets?
One reason is that it’s traditional. A casket is often seen as a sign of respect for the deceased and can be viewed as a way to show that the person has been honored and respected in death. Another reason is that caskets help to protect the body from decay. The casket helps keep the body dry and cool, which can slow down the decomposition process.

 

Which casket is better, wood or metal?
Metal caskets are more durable than wood caskets, but wood caskets can be more aesthetically pleasing. Metal caskets are less likely to warp or crack over time and are also less susceptible to moisture damage. However, wooden caskets often have a natural look and feel that metal caskets cannot replicate.

 

Is a coffin or casket better?
A coffin is typically tapered from the head to the foot, while a casket is rectangular in shape. Both coffins and caskets have pros and cons, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference. A casket tends to be more expensive than a coffin, but it is also usually made from higher quality materials. Coffins, on the other hand, are often less expensive and may be easier to customize.