The Pros and Cons of Wooden Caskets

Organizing a small, intimate funeral service for a loved one may appear to be a difficult task. Funeral expenses can quickly mount, so it's critical to budget for items such as candles, bouquets, funeral services, hearse rentals, cremation plots, meals for guests, and, of course, wooden caskets beforehand.

Types Of Wooden Caskets

Wood caskets are made from a renewable resource that has been used for centuries. And it has always been the standard for making caskets. People have traditionally opted for caskets made of wood instead of metal ones. Different types of wood species are used in wooden caskets, such as:

• Cherry hardwoods
• Oak hardwoods
• Mahogany hardwoods
• Maple hardwoods

The most intricate caskets are made from woods, such as walnut, mahogany, and cherry. Oak is a popular choice among many families because of its renowned grain structures, and Maple wood is valued for its high quality and durability.

Pros Of Wooden Caskets

There are many benefits to choosing wooden caskets such as:

1. Visual Appeal

Stylish and one-of-a-kind, each casket is made by hand from recycled wood. Numerous variants are produced, all of which share the same origins in the wood family and the same synthetic serenity and beauty. The lining of a wooden casket is typically made of velvet or crepe. Wooden caskets can be crafted into any desired shape or size and are available in a variety of standard and premium sizes.

Cost-Related Factors

Why are wood caskets more expensive? The average cost of a wood casket varies depending on the species of hardwood used. In total, you should budget between $950 and $1,500. Pine caskets are significantly less expensive than those made from more expensive hardwoods such as cherry, maple, oak, or walnut.

Cons Of Wooden Caskets

Not Durable

The primary issue with wooden caskets is that they deteriorate with time. A wood casket will decompose after a few years of burial. Choosing a metal casket ensures that your loved one's remains are preserved for the long term. A metal casket, on the other hand, would significantly increase your budget.

Concerns About The Environment

In terms of environmental concerns, deforestation vulnerability is crucial. The other drawback is that many trees need to be cut down in forested areas to manufacture wooden caskets. However, most people who are interested in purchasing wooden caskets don't think it's a big deal because the trees that have been cut down to make the caskets can be replaced just by planting new ones.

For details about wooden caskets and our funeral services and preplanning services, please call George Darte Funeral Home at 905-937-4444 or use our contact form. One of our team members will call you shortly to answer your queries.