Many people are deciding to go with cremation over a traditional burial. However, that leaves the question as to what one should do with the cremated remains.
Some people decide to keep the urn in their homes. However, you have the ability to bury them. If you are deciding what the best option is, continue reading to learn more about how to bury cremated remains.
Options for Burying Cremated Remains
If you are wondering what to do with a loved one’s cremated remains, you have several options available. Of course, you do not need to make up your mind immediately. You can always keep your loved one with you for a few years before returning to the idea of a permanent placement.
1. Burying in a cemetery: Just like a casket, you can bury an urn. Some places may provide plots that are like the ones used for traditional burials. These plots may bury the cremated remains of multiple people. Urn burials get placed in an outer burial container similar to a casket. The containers are often made of concrete and prevent the grave from collapsing after the urn decays. Depending on the cemetery’s policy, you may bury the urn on top of a casket.
2. Urn Garden: Some cemeteries have urn gardens available. Urn gardens are a designated plot of land, with some appearing elaborate. Urns can be placed in hollowed out benches or rocks as part of the landscape.
3. Columbarium: You have the option of going with a columbarium. A columbarium is an above-ground structure in which people may respectfully store an urn. The structures are filled with small wall spaces and used by the public. Each space will have a plaque that lists the name and the dates of life. Just like a grave marker, you may include an epitaph. While a columbarium is for public use, you may purchase a family-size space for multiple urns.
4. Scattering the Remains: As the name suggests, this method involves going to a special place and scattering the ashes. The location is usually often discussed with the family member beforehand. Some cemeteries have a designated scattering garden. They will offer a physical marker to be placed as a memorial. If you plan to scatter outside a cemetery, you are advised to look up the local laws and regulations. Be sure to prepare yourself emotionally, especially if you plan to release all your loved one’s ashes.
It is Cheaper to Bury Cremated Remains
The cost to burying cremated remains may vary based on several factors. For example, the location of the cemetery and whether it is private or public may influence the cost of a plot. Then there is the price of an urn to consider.
For cremation burials, the average cost of a plot in a public cemetery is anywhere from $350 to $500. The average cost for a burial plot in a private cemetery is from $1,000 to $2,500.
Plots for traditional burial plots are much higher on average, with the price going into the thousands. An urn can be a couple of hundred dollars, while a casket often costs a couple thousand. There are several other fees when burying a casket. Overall, it is cheaper to bury cremated remains.
Can you bury an urn at home?
If you are thinking about burying the remains on private property, you will need to get the landowner’s permission ahead of time. But what if you want to bury the urn in your backyard?
It is legal to bury cremated remains in your yard. An at-home burial can be more convenient for some and a private service can be held at home for the deceased.
How deep should it be?
There are no requirements as to how deep the remains should be buried. However, the recommended depth is about three feet.
How to Shop for the Best Urn
When shopping for an urn, it is important to know what type of urn you will need. If you plan to bury the ashes, then the urn should be waterproof in case of rain.
If you plan on traveling with the cremated remains, you will need an urn that is scannable for X-rays. The TSA has requirements for urns, so it is necessary to research them.
You will want to consider what your budget is. Urns can come in a wide range of prices. Knowing how much you can spend will help narrow down your decision.
The style of the urn is also an important factor to consider. You can pick something ornate, or there are biodegradable options if you want to go green.
There is a lot to consider when finding permanent placement for a loved one’s cremated remains. The decision shouldn’t be made under pressure or rushed, so take the time to think about what is best for you and your loved ones.