Burial vault (enclosure)

A burial vault (enclosure) is a pre-constructed container designed to surround a casket within a grave. Its primary purpose is to protect the casket from the weight of the soil and heavy equipment used for cemetery maintenance. Burial vaults are typically made of concrete, though other materials such as metal and fiberglass are also used.

The enclosure helps prevent the ground from settling, which can create an uneven or sunken appearance over time. This provides aesthetic value by maintaining the uniformity and neatness of the cemetery grounds. The vault also offers a degree of protection against the elements, slowing down the natural decomposition process of the casket.

While a burial vault provides protection for the casket, it is not intended to be hermetically sealed. The primary goal is structural support and long-term maintenance of the gravesite, not preservation of the remains within the casket.

The specific requirements for burial vaults, or outer burial containers, vary depending on the cemetery. Some cemeteries may require them, while others may offer them as an optional service.