When we think of funerals, we think of coffins six feet underground. Most of us probably envision our interment this way. But you may not know that there’s another option for you and your loved ones: above-ground burials.

There are various ways to be buried above ground. Some of them even allow family members to stay together for eternity. To help you learn more about this type of burial, here’s a guide that covers the benefits and methods used.

What Are the Benefits of Above-Ground Burials?

Above-ground burials come with various benefits you can’t enjoy with traditional burials. To start, it’s a cleaner method that will allow your loved one’s casket to stay dry and pristine for many years. Not only are they away from the damp soil, but there are also drainage systems underneath to prevent water damage.

Above-ground burials also allow married couples or entire families to stay together after death. In addition, you can adorn your family’s tomb with beautiful designs to honor your loved ones. Lastly, above-ground burials typically cost less than traditional interments because they require less work and space.

What Are the Types of Above-Ground Burials?

When you decide to go with an above-ground burial, think about which kind will suit you and your family the best. There are several to choose from, including the following:

Family-Owned Mausoleum

If you want your whole family to rest in peace together when the time comes, you can invest in a family-owned mausoleum. A small one that can hold two remains costs around $25,000 to $50,000, while a larger one that can house several bodies will set you back at least $200,000.

In addition, you have to pay the cemetery for the space your mausoleum will take up. While it’s a costly purchase, your family members won’t have to worry about heavy expenses in the future.

Public Mausoleum

If a family-owned mausoleum is too heavy on the pocket, you can opt for a public one instead. Indoor mausoleums consist of walls of sealed crypts, each with a plaque that bears the deceased’s name and other details.

They make for quiet and peaceful resting places, often with benches for visitors and serene music playing in the background. Another option is a garden mausoleum, but they don’t come with indoor space for visitors.

Columbarium

Columbariums are similar to mausoleums but smaller. Instead of full-size caskets, they contain urns where you place the cremated remains of your loved ones. You can find columbariums in various places, including indoor mausoleums, churches, and in the basement of buildings.

While columbariums come in different styles, the latest trend is to equip them with glass doors. That way, you can view the urn inside. You can also place mementos like picture frames and little stuffed toys.

Garden walls are outdoor versions of columbariums. You can usually find them along decorated pathways with benches so visitors can rest, reflect, and pray.

Scattering Garden

Some cemeteries have scattering gardens where family members can scatter their loved one’s remains. Even though there’s no urn to hold the ashes, there’s a place that visitors can come back to and remember those who have passed. Some scattering gardens permit family members to place name plaques on a dedicated wall.

The Bottom Line

Above-ground burials are an excellent alternative to traditional burials. Whether in a mausoleum or columbarium, there can be great peace for you and your family. For more information, contact Wyuka Cemetery at (402)-474-3600.