What is an Above-Ground Burial?
An above-ground burial is a method where the deceased is entombed in a structure above the ground, such as a mausoleum or columbarium, rather than being buried in the earth. This type of burial often utilizes an above-ground burial vault for added protection and preservation. It offers an alternative to traditional in-ground burials.
Types of Above-Ground Burial Structures
Mausoleums
Mausoleums are large, above-ground structures that house one or multiple tombs. They are typically built from stone or concrete and can be private (for a single family) or community-based (for multiple individuals).
Columbariums
Columbariums are structures designed to store cremated remains in individual niches. Each niche can be personalized with plaques or inscriptions to honor the deceased.
Chambers
Chambers are smaller than mausoleums and often used for single or double interments. They offer a more intimate above-ground burial option.
Vaults
Above-ground burial vaults are protective containers that encase the coffin within a mausoleum or chamber, enhancing preservation and security.
Why Above-Ground Burials are Beneficial
Above-ground burials provide several advantages, including better preservation of remains and easier access for family visits. They are environmentally considerate, often using less land and allowing for eco-friendly designs. Additionally, these structures can be aesthetically pleasing and offer robust protection against weather and environmental factors, making them a durable and appealing option for honoring loved ones.
Benefits of Above-Ground Burials
Preservation
Above-ground burials offer superior preservation of remains compared to in-ground burials. The use of above-ground burial vaults adds an extra layer of protection, minimizing the impact of environmental factors and ensuring long-term preservation.
Accessibility
Above-ground burial sites, particularly those in indoor mausoleums, provide easier access for family and friends to visit their loved ones. These structures often include features like walkways and benches, making visits more comfortable and convenient year-round.
Environmental Considerations
Above-ground burials require less land than traditional in-ground burials, making them an environmentally friendly option. Additionally, many above-ground burial structures incorporate eco-friendly materials and designs, further reducing their environmental footprint.
Aesthetic and Architectural Appeal
Above-ground burial structures can be customized to create visually appealing memorials that honor the deceased. Examples of beautifully designed mausoleums and columbariums include intricate stonework, stained glass, and landscaped surroundings that enhance the overall aesthetic.
Weather Resistance
Above-ground burials offer robust protection against weather-related issues such as flooding and soil erosion. The long-term durability of above-ground burial vaults ensures that remains are safeguarded against the elements, providing peace of mind to families.
Considerations for Choosing Above-Ground Burials
Cost
Costs for above-ground burials can vary widely. Typically, they are higher than traditional in-ground burials due to the construction and maintenance of structures like mausoleums and columbariums. However, Memorial Properties offers pre-planning options that can help manage these costs, including a certificate of credit up to $1,495 towards an above-ground space.
Space Availability
Space is a crucial consideration, especially in urban cemeteries where land is limited. Above-ground structures maximize space by offering multi-level options. Memorial Properties provides various options across their New Jersey locations to accommodate different needs and preferences.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Above-ground structures require regular maintenance to preserve their appearance and integrity. Memorial Properties offers perpetual care services, ensuring that mausoleums and columbariums are well-maintained, providing peace of mind that the resting place remains dignified and respectful.
Cultural and Religious Factors
Cultural and religious preferences significantly influence the choice between above-ground and in-ground burials. Memorial Properties offers tailored services to accommodate various cultural and religious traditions, ensuring that burial practices align with personal beliefs and values.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is an above-ground burial?
An above-ground burial is a burial option where the deceased is entombed in a structure above the ground, such as a mausoleum or columbarium, often using an above-ground burial vault.
What are the benefits of above-ground burials?
Benefits include better preservation of remains, easier visitor access, reduced land usage, eco-friendly options, aesthetic appeal, and enhanced protection against weather-related issues.
How much does an above-ground burial cost?
The cost of an above-ground burial at Memorial Properties typically includes the price of the mausoleum space and maintenance fees. For example, mausoleum space for two generally costs around $2,190, which can be more cost-effective than traditional in-ground burials by avoiding additional costs such as digging graves and lot maintenance.
What is an above-ground burial vault?
An above-ground burial vault is a protective container used in mausoleums to encase the coffin, providing additional preservation and protection from environmental factors.
Are above-ground burials environmentally friendly?
Yes, above-ground burials often use less land and can incorporate eco-friendly materials and designs, making them a sustainable option compared to traditional in-ground burials.
Can anyone choose an above-ground burial?
Yes, above-ground burials are available to anyone, though availability may vary based on the cemetery and regional regulations. Memorial Properties offers a variety of options across multiple locations in New Jersey.
How do I pre-plan an above-ground burial?
Pre-planning an above-ground burial involves selecting a mausoleum or columbarium, arranging payment, and documenting your preferences with the cemetery. Memorial Properties provides pre-planning services that include a certificate of credit towards an above-ground space, helping to reduce future costs and ensure that your wishes are honored.
Plan an Above-Ground Burial with Memorial Properties
Burial costs can add up, but by working with Memorial Properties to pre-plan your arrangements, you can save significant costs for your family in the future. We have designed our pre-planning service and group programs to ensure that you can make the right choices for yourself and your loved ones at an affordable cost. We would be happy to answer any questions you have about funeral and burial prices in NJ and what you should consider when planning for the future. We offer you access to our tencemetery and mausoleum locations in NJ, which are kept in pristine condition all year long. We believe that today’s wisdom is tomorrow’s peace of mind, and we want to help you properly prepare for the future by making decisions that keep your budget in mind. To learn more about burial costs in NJ and to get started with pre-planning your arrangements, please contact us by calling 732-820-0211 today.