What is the key difference between a burial vault and a grave liner?

The key difference between a burial vault and a grave liner lies in the structural integrity and purpose of each. A burial vault is specifically designed to fully enclose the casket, offering protection from the weight of the earth and preventing the casket from collapsing over time. This full enclosure also helps to prevent soil erosion and maintains the cemetery's landscape. By completely surrounding the casket, a burial vault provides additional durability and can prolong the longevity of the burial site.

In contrast, a grave liner, which may be less robust, typically only covers the top and sides of the casket rather than enclosing it fully. Grave liners serve a simpler purpose of supporting the casket and preventing the ground above from sinking, but they do not provide the same level of protection as burial vaults.

Understanding this distinction is critical for those in the funeral service industry, as it informs decisions about burial options that meet the needs and preferences of the deceased's family.