Grave Liner vs Burial Vault: What's the Difference?

When arranging a burial, families are often asked to choose a grave liner or a burial vault. Both are outer containers that hold the casket, but they're not the same. Understanding the difference helps you choose — and explains why cemeteries ask for them.

What a grave liner is

A grave liner is a concrete box that surrounds the casket. It usually covers the top and sides but may be open at the bottom or have holes for drainage. Its main job is structural: it stops the ground above from collapsing as a casket breaks down.

What a burial vault is

A burial vault is a fully enclosed container — concrete, often lined with plastic or metal — with a sealed lid. It also supports the ground, but is designed to resist water entering. Vaults cost more than liners.

Are they required?

In most of Canada and the US, there's no general law requiring one, but many cemeteries require at least a liner in their rules. The reasons:

• Level ground — sunken graves are a trip hazard and hard to mow.
• Stable headstones — settling ground can tip foundations; see how to fix a leaning headstone.
• Machinery — heavy equipment can safely drive over supported graves.

Natural burial grounds usually ban them. See green burial markers.

How they affect the headstone

A supported grave keeps the ground level, which helps the headstone foundation stay true. Without one, settling can start within a few years. If your cemetery requires waiting before installing a headstone, part of the reason is letting the ground settle — see how long after burial can a headstone go in.

Key Takeaways

• A liner supports the ground; a vault is fully sealed.
• Many cemeteries require at least a liner.
• Both help keep the ground level and headstones straight.
• Natural burial grounds usually don't allow them.

Next Step

See types of cemetery plots and headstone foundation requirements.