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Sky Caskets offers a curated selection of metal caskets known for their strength and elegance. Metal caskets are commonly manufactured from 20-gauge, 18-gauge, and stainless steel. Each material offers a different level of durability and protection, allowing families to select the option that best fits their needs and budget.
Our steel caskets feature interiors in crepe or velvet, tastefully coordinated with polished, brushed, or painted exterior finishes. Many models include a one-piece rubber gasket around the inner lid. When closed, the locking mechanism draws the seal onto the base, forming a protective barrier. The protective seal prevents air, water, and other elements from entering the interior.
We also offer premium metals such as bronze and copper for those seeking the highest-quality caskets or coffins. Whether you prefer an affordable 20-gauge steel casket or stainless steel caskets with rust-resistant properties, we provide options to fit every family’s needs. With free standard shipping and next-day delivery to funeral homes nationwide, Sky Caskets makes hard decisions easier during a difficult time.
These common questions help families understand metal caskets and make the right choice to honor a loved one.
The price comparison depends on specific materials. Standard 20-gauge steel caskets can be more affordable than high-end solid hardwoods like mahogany or walnut. However, premium metal options such as bronze and copper cost significantly more than most wood casket options.
For families with budget concerns, 20-gauge steel offers the best balance of quality and cost. These metal caskets typically start at $1,095 and include free standard shipping. 18-gauge steel caskets cost slightly more due to their thicker, more durable construction. Stainless steel falls in the midrange, while bronze caskets can cost up to $30,000 at funeral homes. Buying a funeral casket online can reduce the price by up to 85% compared to funeral home pricing on both metal and wood options.
Steel caskets are known for exceptional durability compared to wood caskets or coffins. Under favorable conditions, metal caskets can last 50 to 80 years underground. Several factors affect longevity, including soil moisture, use of a burial vault, and climate conditions.
18-gauge steel offers more durability than 20-gauge steel because it’s about 20% thicker. Stainless steel caskets resist rust naturally due to their chromium content, providing longer-lasting protection. Bronze and copper caskets last the longest because these metals don’t corrode as readily as standard steel. The protective seal protects the interior from the elements, thereby extending the casket’s life. Wood caskets typically decompose in 10 to 15 years.
Metal caskets offer several advantages that make them popular among families. Steel caskets are durable and strong, providing excellent protection. Many feature a one-piece rubber gasket that forms a protective seal around the inner lid, creating a barrier against moisture, air, and other gravesite elements.
Metal caskets are commonly manufactured with a wide variety of finishes, including polished, brushed, or painted in numerous colors. The locking mechanism securely draws the lid closed. Interiors feature high-quality materials, such as crepe or velvet, to ensure a beautiful presentation during the funeral service. Unlike wood caskets, metal options can include gasketed seals. They’re also better for long-distance transportation due to their robust construction.
The best metal depends on your priorities. Bronze is the most durable and most expensive, followed by copper and stainless steel. Standard steel caskets made of gauge steel are the most affordable option. The terminology reflects that lower gauge numbers mean thicker steel: 18-gauge steel is thicker and stronger than 20-gauge steel.
For rust resistance without the cost of semi-precious metals, stainless steel caskets are an excellent choice. Bronze and copper don’t corrode and are priced by weight rather than gauge. For those with budget constraints seeking quality, 18-gauge steel offers excellent durability in the market today. 20-gauge steel balances affordability with protection. Consider your priorities: price, durability, or rust resistance, and you’ll find the right metal casket.
The best gauge depends on your budget and durability needs. Metal caskets are commonly manufactured from 16-, 18-, and 20-gauge metal. The terminology reflects that lower gauge numbers mean thicker steel. 18-gauge steel is about 20% thicker than 20-gauge steel, making it heavier and more durable.
20-gauge steel caskets are the most popular on the market today because they balance quality with affordability. Most 20-gauge caskets offer both gasketed and non-gasketed options. 18-gauge steel caskets typically feature velvet interiors and swing bar hardware. They allow for more intricate designs due to the thicker metal. 16-gauge is the premium option, mostly manufactured in the United States, while imported caskets are typically 18- or 20-gauge.
No, metal caskets cannot be used for cremation because they’re non-combustible. Cremation chambers require containers made entirely of combustible materials, such as wood or cardboard. Steel, stainless steel, bronze, and copper caskets are not permitted for cremation.
If you’re planning a cremation service but want a traditional viewing, many funeral homes offer rental caskets. The deceased is then transferred to a cremation-approved container made of wood or cardboard afterward. Metal caskets are preferred for long-distance transport of the deceased due to their durability. If cremation is part of your plan, we recommend exploring our wood casket options instead.
Metal caskets offer a range of interior customization. Interiors feature materials such as crepe and velvet, providing varied textures and appearances. A crepe interior provides classic, textured elegance that’s tastefully coordinated with the exterior finish. A velvet interior offers a more luxurious, plush appearance.
Interior colors range from white and ivory to pink, blue, and bronze. You can customize head panels with religious symbols, imagery, embroidery, or personalized tribute messages. The interior fabric is tastefully coordinated with each exterior finish. Both crepe and velvet are high-quality linings that include matching pillows and throws. Most high-quality caskets offer multiple interior options to create a meaningful, personalized tribute.
Not all metal caskets are gasketed. Most 18-gauge steel caskets and stainless steel caskets include a one-piece rubber gasket for a protective seal. However, 20-gauge steel caskets are available in both gasketed and non-gasketed options.
A gasketed casket, also called a protective or sealer casket, features a rubber gasket around the inner lid. When the locking mechanism draws the lid closed, the gasket forms a seal that protects against moisture, air, and other grave-site elements. Non-gasketed caskets still close securely but don’t create an airtight seal. Bronze and copper caskets typically include gasket seals as standard. Your choice depends on the level of protection you want for your loved one’s final resting place.
During this time of grief and remembrance, Sky Caskets is here to help answer your questions. Call us at 800-759-1018 or message us using our online form.
During this time of grief and remembrance of your loved one, Sky Caskets is here to answer your questions and help you in any way that we can. You can give us a call anytime at 800-759-1018 or send us a message using the form below.
