What are Burial Vault and Grave Liners For?

December 13, 2021
If you must plan funeral services, you may have been asked if you would like a burial vault or grave liner. Today's article will discuss the difference between the two. 
cremation services in Boones Mill, VA

When you are looking for cremation services in Boones Mill, VA, vault liners may not be a concern for you, but if you are looking at burial services knowing the difference can be beneficial for making decisions. When it comes to protecting the casket of your loved ones after they have been laid to rest, having a way to keep the vessel intact if possible is a priority. These protections come in two options: a grave liner or a burial vault, so here is more information. 


 


Grave Liner 


A grave liner is a receptacle that is placed into the ground for burial purposes. They can come in a box form or dome and are built to support the weight from the dirt that covers it. The intention is to prevent a collapse onto the grave, which could cause damage to the casket. 


 


These grave liners are also known as rough boxes, concrete boxes, or grave receptacles and may be required by the cemetery. They protect the casket preventing cave-ins for the ground above that could cause damage to the cemetery property. They are made of concrete, making them more prone to allow water or dirt to come in and out of the space where the casket is located. In addition, this can cause faster deterioration of the casket as time progresses. 


 


Burial Vault 


The vault is defined as a receptacle that is aligned and sealed and fulfills the duties of a grave liner. They offer more lining and materials to help seal the interior, creating more strength and lessening the chances of any exterior particles entering the lining. And in most cases, they will come with a warranty, so check with the manufacturer. 


 


The burial vault offers far more protection as they are lined with plastic; the cover is also secured with butyl tape for extra security. Burial vaults also provide a way to personalize the container, with even some companies offering interactive containers with removable rings. Other options make them customizable with photos or emblems specific to your family or to add that special touch. 


 


A Local and Trusted Source 


It is recommended to check with local and state laws, but there are no regulations about requiring a vault or liner in most cases. In some situations, the cemeteries may require it to prevent any sinking within the grave. The liners are also not meant to avoid the decomposition of the loved one; they are simply barriers to protecting the casket and its ground. 


 


It can be excruciating and devastating to lose a loved one, and it's not unusual to experience a wide array of emotions around the event. Planning cremation services in Boones Mill, VA, can feel that much more difficult if you have never had to organize an event like this, so you need support going through the process. Connor-Bowman Funeral Home & Crematory offers online grief support in addition to our multiple other services. We understand how complicated the process can be, and we want to provide you some ease with your planning, so give us a call today.


Roanoke, VA cremation services
August 18, 2025
Meaningful tributes don’t have to be elaborate. Our Roanoke, VA cremation services help you honor life simply, personally, and with heartfelt care.
Roanoke, VA funeral services
August 11, 2025
Plan ahead with Roanoke, VA funeral services that reflect your wishes. We guide you through thoughtful, compassionate decisions for peace of mind.
Roanoke, VA funeral homes
August 4, 2025
Honor your loved one with a meaningful tribute. Our Roanoke, VA, funeral homes experts help guide families through planning with compassion and care.
Roanoke, VA cremations
July 28, 2025
Flexible Roanoke, VA cremations from Conner-Bowman Funeral Home & Crematory, offering compassionate, personalized options for today’s families.
Roanoke, VA cremation services
July 21, 2025
Roanoke, VA cremation services offering compassionate care and personal guidance. Conner-Bowman Funeral Home & Crematory is here to support your family.
Roanoke, VA funeral services
By Conner-Bowman Funeral Home & Crematory July 14, 2025
Learn proper etiquette for Roanoke, VA funeral services. Discover compassionate guidance for families and friends from Conner-Bowman Funeral Home & Crematory.
Roanoke, VA funeral homes
By Conner-Bowman Funeral Home & Crematory July 7, 2025
Learn how to dress respectfully for a service. Discover expert advice from Roanoke, VA funeral homes on funeral attire, traditions, and personal touches.
Roanoke, VA cremations
By Conner-Bowman Funeral Home & Crematory June 23, 2025
Considering Roanoke, VA cremations? Discover whether holding a memorial service right after cremation is best, plus expert tips from caring funeral professionals.
Roanoke, VA cremation services
By Conner-Bowman Funeral Home & Crematory June 16, 2025
Discover ways to memorialize loved ones after cremation. Explore cremation services and personalized tributes at Conner-Bowman Funeral Home & Crematory.
Roanoke, VA funeral services
By Conner-Bowman Funeral Home & Crematory June 9, 2025
Discover how Roanoke, VA funeral services by Conner-Bowman Funeral Home & Crematory honor tradition and create personalized tributes for meaningful goodbyes.