Choosing a casket is easier when the decision is broken into a few practical questions. Will there be a viewing? Will the casket be used for burial or cremation? What material feels appropriate? Does the size fit the person and the cemetery requirements? And how much detail or personalization does the family want?
This guide focuses on the product-choice side of the decision: materials, sizes, construction, service type and cemetery fit. Prices and buyer rights are important, but Haven already covers those in more detail elsewhere. If you are looking for a full cost breakdown, see Haven's Ontario funeral cost guide. If you want to understand your right to buy from a third-party supplier, see Haven's guide to buying a casket outside the funeral home.
Best Casket Choice by Situation
Most Ontario families planning a burial with a viewing should start with a regular adult wood or metal casket: wood gives a warm, traditional presentation, while metal offers a polished finish, more colour options, and a clear 20-gauge or 18-gauge construction choice. If cremation will follow a service with the body present, a cremation casket is the right fit; for a direct cremation with no viewing, a simple alternative cremation container is usually enough. Consider an oversized casket only after you have confirmed the body's measurements and that it will fit the cemetery, vault or crypt.
| Situation | Choose This | Why | Confirm Before Buying |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional burial with a viewing | Regular adult wood or metal casket | Suitable for both viewing and burial | Cemetery requirements, vault fit and delivery timing |
| Warm, classic appearance | Wood casket | Natural grain and a softer, traditional presentation | Wood species, finish, interior fabric and hardware |
| Polished finish or specific colour | Metal casket | More colour choices and clear 20-gauge or 18-gauge options | Gauge, gasketed/non-gasketed design and exterior dimensions |
| Cremation after a viewing or funeral service | Cremation casket | Avoids buying a standard burial casket if burial is not planned | Funeral home and crematorium acceptance |
| Direct cremation with no viewing | Alternative cremation container | Simple, practical container for cremation only | Required container type, paperwork and timing |
| Green burial | Cemetery-approved biodegradable casket or shroud | Meets natural burial material rules | Exact cemetery material rules and whether a vault is prohibited |
| Larger body profile or shoulder width | Wider regular or oversized casket | Prevents poor fit for viewing, burial or transport | Interior width, exterior width, vault fit and handling requirements |
| Mausoleum entombment | Casket matched to the crypt's exact dimensions | Mausoleum crypt space is fixed | Maximum crypt length, width and height |
Use this order when deciding: service type, cemetery or crematorium rules, size, material, then finish. That sequence prevents the most common mistakes.
Casket Selection Flowchart
Use this decision path before comparing colours, interiors or hardware.
Casket Materials Compared
Material affects appearance, durability, price tier, cremation suitability and cemetery compatibility. It also affects how the casket feels to the family during a viewing. A polished mahogany casket and a blue 18-gauge steel casket may both be suitable for burial, but they communicate a different mood.
| Material Type | Best For | Typical Look | Practical Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solid hardwood | Traditional burial, formal viewing, families who prefer natural warmth | Oak, mahogany, cherry, maple, walnut, poplar or pine finishes | More furniture-like; finish, wood species and craftsmanship drive price |
| Veneer or engineered wood | Families who want a wood look at a lower price point | Wood exterior appearance with more cost control | Can be a good middle option when appearance matters but budget is limited |
| 20-gauge steel | Burial, viewing, value-focused metal choice | Clean, polished, many colours | Lighter steel; often more affordable than 18-gauge |
| 18-gauge steel | Burial, viewing, families wanting a heavier metal casket | More substantial metal finish | Thicker than 20-gauge; often positioned as a mid- to upper-range metal choice |
| Stainless steel | Burial, higher durability expectations | Polished, modern, corrosion-resistant | Often priced between regular steel and semi-precious metals |
| Copper or bronze | Premium burial selection | Warm metallic finish, high-end appearance | Measured by weight rather than steel gauge; usually premium priced |
| Cloth-covered or fiberboard | Direct cremation, simple services, budget-sensitive arrangements | Simple covered exterior | Not usually chosen for a formal burial viewing unless the family prefers simplicity |
| Bamboo, willow, seagrass or unfinished pine | Green burial, natural burial, some cremation uses | Natural, simple, handmade feel | Confirm cemetery or crematorium rules before purchase |
This guide focuses on the steel casket gauge categories Haven carries: 20-gauge and 18-gauge. A 20-gauge steel casket is lighter and often more affordable, while an 18-gauge steel casket is thicker and usually feels more substantial. The Casket and Funeral Supply Association also describes hardwood caskets as furniture-like products made from species such as poplar, pine, oak, maple, cherry, walnut and mahogany.
When Wood Is the Right Fit
Wood caskets are often chosen because they feel natural and familiar. Families who want a softer, warmer presentation often prefer wood over metal, especially for a traditional viewing or religious service.
The wood species matters. Pine and poplar are usually simpler and more affordable. Oak and maple feel sturdy and classic. Cherry, walnut and mahogany are commonly associated with richer colour, deeper grain and a more premium finish. A high-gloss finish can feel formal, while a satin finish can feel calmer and more understated.
Wood is also flexible for personalization. Depending on the model, families may be able to choose a finish tone, interior fabric, religious emblem, embroidered cap panel or engraved detail. For some families, this matters more than material strength. The casket becomes part of the final visual memory of the service.
Choose a wood casket if:
- The family wants a warm, traditional appearance.
- The service includes a viewing.
- The deceased preferred natural materials or classic design.
- You want a casket that feels more like fine furniture than a metal product.
Wood may not be ideal if the family wants a gasketed metal casket or if the crematorium requires a specific container type that excludes some hardware or finishes.
When Metal Is the Right Fit
Metal caskets are popular because they offer many colours, a polished appearance and clear construction categories. Most metal caskets are made from steel. The gauge number tells you the steel thickness, but it works in reverse: a lower gauge number means thicker steel. An 18-gauge casket is thicker than a 20-gauge casket.
For many families, 20-gauge steel is a practical choice because it offers the look of a metal casket at a lower price point. An 18-gauge casket can feel more substantial and is often chosen when the family wants a heavier metal option. Stainless steel, copper and bronze are premium choices and are usually selected for appearance, corrosion resistance or personal preference rather than necessity.
Steel Gauge Diagram
Gasketed vs. Non-Gasketed Construction
Some metal caskets include a rubber gasket around the lid. These are sometimes called gasketed, sealer or protective caskets. A gasket can help slow outside elements from entering the casket, but it should not be described as preserving the body forever. Families should be cautious of any claim that makes a casket sound permanent or magical. A gasket is a construction feature, not a promise against natural processes.
Choose a metal casket if:
- The family wants a polished, modern or colour-specific look.
- You prefer a clear distinction between 20-gauge, 18-gauge and premium metal categories.
- A gasketed option matters to the family.
- The burial is traditional rather than green burial or direct cremation.
Viewing Before Cremation: Choosing a Cremation Casket
If a family chooses cremation but still wants a viewing or funeral service with the body present, the practical choice is a cremation casket. It is suitable for the service and compatible with cremation requirements: it must be made from combustible materials and should not include metal components that are unsuitable for cremation. Haven supplies cremation caskets for exactly this situation.
You may also hear about a rental casket. This is an outer shell used only for the ceremony, with a removable insert or a separate combustible container used for the cremation itself. Rental caskets are arranged through the funeral home rather than purchased from a casket supplier, so Haven does not offer them; if a rental is something you want, ask the funeral home directly.
| Cremation Scenario | Casket Choice | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Direct cremation with no viewing | Alternative cremation container | Simple, practical and lower cost |
| Cremation after a viewing | Cremation casket | Suitable for ceremony and cremation if built correctly |
| Formal service before cremation | Cremation casket (or a funeral-home rental casket) | Full ceremony either way; Haven supplies the cremation casket, the funeral home handles rentals |
| Religious or cultural service before cremation | Wood or approved cremation casket | Check funeral home and crematorium requirements first |
Canada's cremation rate is high and still rising. CANA's 2025 Annual Statistics Report put the Canadian cremation rate at 76.7% in 2024, projected to reach 80.7% by 2029. That makes cremation-compatible casket decisions increasingly important for Ontario families. See Haven's cremation vs. burial statistics in Canada for the full breakdown.
Green Burial: Natural Container Requirements
Green burial is different from standard burial. The Green Burial Society of Canada describes green burial around principles such as no embalming, natural biodegradable containers, direct earth burial without an outside vault or grave liner, and simple memorialization.
For casket choice, that means families should look for natural, biodegradable materials. Common examples include unfinished pine, willow, bamboo, seagrass or a shroud, depending on what the cemetery permits. A standard metal casket is usually not appropriate for green burial. A glossy wood casket with chemical finishes may also be rejected by some green burial sections.
Before buying a green burial casket, ask:
- Does the cemetery allow this exact material?
- Are metal handles, screws or decorative parts allowed?
- Does the casket need to be unfinished?
- Are shrouds permitted?
- Is an outer vault prohibited?
- Who confirms the container before the burial date?
Green burial can be meaningful, but the rules are site-specific. Confirm first, buy second.
Casket Sizes: Standard, Oversized and Special Cases
Most adult caskets are built around standard dimensions, but exact measurements vary by manufacturer and model. Families should never rely on a generic size chart alone. Always confirm the specific casket's interior and exterior measurements before ordering.
The key measurements are:
| Measurement | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Interior length | Determines whether the person can be placed comfortably |
| Interior width | Important for shoulder width and body shape |
| Interior height | Matters for presentation, clothing, body position and lid clearance |
| Exterior length | Must fit funeral home equipment, hearse, cemetery vault or mausoleum crypt |
| Exterior width | Important for vault, crypt or cemetery handling |
| Exterior height | Can matter for mausoleum crypts and some vaults |
Regular vs. Oversized Casket Dimensions
For planning purposes, a regular adult casket is usually around 83 to 84 inches long, 28 to 30 inches wide and 23 to 24 inches high on the outside. Interior space is smaller because the shell, lining, lid and hardware take up room. Batesville's published catalog, for example, shows many standard wood and metal caskets with exterior widths around 28.5 to 29.5 inches and interior widths commonly around 24 to 26 inches, depending on the model.
Oversized caskets usually add interior width first. Some oversized models are only a few inches wider than standard; others are built for much larger requirements and may need an oversized burial vault, special cemetery handling or a larger vehicle/equipment plan.
| Casket Size Category | Typical Interior Dimensions | Typical Exterior Dimensions | Practical Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular adult casket | About 77.5-81.5 in long x 24-26 in wide | About 83-84.25 in long x 28.5-29.5 in wide x 23-24 in high | Fits most adult services, hearses, standard cemetery handling and many standard burial vaults |
| Wider regular / large standard model | About 80.5-83 in long x 27-28 in wide | About 83.5-84 in long x 29-29.5 in wide x about 23.5 in high | Some models create more interior room while still staying close to regular exterior dimensions |
| Oversized 28-30 in category | About 79-82.5 in long x 27-29.5 in wide | About 84-87 in long x 32.5-33 in wide x 21-24 in high | Often the first oversized step; confirm whether a standard or oversized vault is needed |
| Oversized 32-36 in category | About 79-87 in long x 32-35 in wide | About 81-87.75 in long x 32.25-36 in wide x about 23.5 in high | Usually requires cemetery and vault confirmation before purchase |
| XXL oversized 40-44 in category | Often about 79-84 in long x 39-43 in wide | Often about 84 in long x 40-44 in wide x about 24 in high | Requires special planning for vault, cemetery equipment, vehicle access and handling |
Do not choose oversized by weight alone. The important fit points are shoulder width, body profile, height, clothing, presentation needs and whether the casket must fit a burial vault, grave liner or mausoleum crypt. If the cemetery requires a vault, the vault size can become the limiting factor rather than the casket itself. The ranges above are general industry references, not a catalog. Oversized and specialty sizes vary by availability, so confirm the exact model and its measurements with Haven before ordering.
Casket Size Check Diagram
- 1Confirm person's height, shoulder width and body profile
- 2Check casket interior dimensions
- 3Check exterior dimensions
- 4Confirm funeral home handling and hearse fit
- 5Confirm cemetery vault, grave liner or mausoleum crypt fit
- 6Order only after all fit points are confirmed
An oversized casket may be needed when a standard casket does not provide enough interior width, length or height. This is not only about weight. Height, shoulder width, body shape, medical devices, clothing and presentation can all affect fit.
If burial will be in a mausoleum crypt, size confirmation is even more important. Crypts have fixed interior dimensions. A casket that works for ground burial may not work for a particular mausoleum space. If the cemetery requires a burial vault or grave liner, the casket must also fit that outer container.
Burial, Vaults and Cemetery Requirements
The casket is only one part of the burial arrangement. Cemeteries may have rules about vaults, grave liners, crypt dimensions, green burial containers, lowering equipment and scheduling. In Ontario, families should review cemetery requirements before finalizing a casket, especially for oversized models, green burial, mausoleum entombment or cultural/religious services.
If you already have a cemetery plot, ask the cemetery:
- Is the plot for ground burial, mausoleum entombment or cremated remains?
- Is an outer burial container required?
- Are there size limits for the casket or vault?
- Are green burial materials allowed in this section?
- Are there extra handling fees for oversized caskets?
- What information does the cemetery need before the interment date?
Haven's GTA cemetery guide is a good companion resource for families comparing cemetery rules, by-laws, plot categories and approval requirements.
Personalization Options
Personalization does not have to mean a custom-built casket. Small details can make the casket feel more appropriate for the person being remembered.
Common personalization choices include:
| Feature | What It Changes | Good Fit For |
|---|---|---|
| Interior fabric | The look during viewing | Families choosing a colour, texture or religious tone |
| Cap panel | The inside lid panel | Names, dates, scripture, symbols or simple embroidery |
| Exterior colour | Overall presentation | Families matching a favourite colour or formal style |
| Corners and hardware | Decorative detail | Religious, floral, military or classic motifs |
| Wood finish | Warmth and tone | Natural, traditional or furniture-like preferences |
| Half-couch or full-couch lid | Viewing presentation | Cultural, religious or family preference |
The best personalization is restrained and meaningful. A small detail chosen carefully usually feels better than adding every available option.
What To Inspect Before Buying
Whether you buy from a showroom, funeral home or online supplier, inspect the details before you commit.
Use this checklist:
| Item To Check | What To Look For |
|---|---|
| Material | Solid wood, veneer, steel gauge, stainless, copper, bronze or natural material |
| Dimensions | Interior and exterior measurements, especially for oversized or mausoleum use |
| Finish | Colour, gloss level, wood grain, paint quality or metal finish |
| Interior | Fabric type, pillow, lining, cap panel and colour |
| Hardware | Handles, corners, religious symbols or decorative pieces |
| Cremation compatibility | Confirm combustible materials and crematorium acceptance |
| Green burial compatibility | Confirm natural materials and cemetery rules |
| Delivery timing | Confirm delivery location, date, receiver and contact person |
| Documentation | Written product details, invoice and return/exchange terms |
If a product description is vague, ask for clarification. A reputable casket supplier should be able to tell you what the casket is made of, how large it is, what service type it is suited for and how delivery will work.
How To Avoid Choosing the Wrong Casket
The wrong casket is usually not the result of one bad decision. It is usually the result of skipping a practical step.
Here are the most common mistakes:
- Choosing a beautiful casket before confirming burial, cremation or green burial requirements.
- Buying a metal casket for a cremation service without confirming crematorium rules.
- Choosing an oversized casket without checking vault, crypt or cemetery fit.
- Assuming a gasketed casket preserves the body permanently.
- Comparing caskets only by price instead of material, dimensions and use case.
- Waiting until the last minute and being forced into a narrow selection.
- Forgetting that an existing plot or cemetery section may have specific rules.
The best process is calm and sequential: choose the service type, confirm cemetery or cremation requirements, narrow by material, confirm size, then choose the finish and personalization.
Final Casket Decision Matrix
| Family Priority | Best Starting Point |
|---|---|
| Warm traditional look | Solid wood casket |
| Lower-cost burial option | 20-gauge steel, poplar, pine or simple wood |
| Premium formal appearance | Mahogany, cherry, walnut, bronze or copper |
| Modern colour options | Metal casket |
| Cremation with viewing | Cremation casket |
| Direct cremation | Alternative cremation container |
| Green burial | Biodegradable casket or shroud approved by the cemetery |
| Oversized needs | Confirm interior fit plus vault/crypt compatibility |
| Religious or cultural service | Confirm lid style, material and viewing requirements |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose between a wood and a metal casket?
Choose wood for a warm, traditional look with natural grain. Choose metal for a polished finish, more colour options and a clear 20-gauge or 18-gauge construction choice. Both suit a burial with a viewing.
What kind of casket do I need for a cremation with a viewing?
A cremation casket, made from combustible materials with no metal parts unsuitable for cremation. Haven supplies cremation caskets for this situation. A rental casket is a separate option arranged through the funeral home.
Does a gasketed or sealer casket preserve the body?
No. A gasket can slow outside elements from entering the casket, but no casket preserves a body permanently. Treat any claim that a casket is permanent or protective forever with caution.
What size casket should I order?
Confirm the person's height, shoulder width and body profile, then match them to the casket's interior and exterior measurements and to any cemetery vault, grave liner or mausoleum crypt. Never rely on a generic size chart alone.
Can I use any casket for a green burial?
No. Green burial usually requires a natural, biodegradable container such as unfinished pine, willow, bamboo, seagrass or a shroud, and the rules vary by cemetery. Confirm the exact material before buying.
Making the Final Choice
The best casket is not always the most expensive one. It is the one that fits the service, the cemetery or crematorium requirements, the person being honoured and the family's budget. For many Ontario families, the right answer becomes clear once the decision is broken into order: disposition, material, size, fit, appearance and delivery.
If you are comparing caskets in Toronto, Markham or the GTA, Haven Casket & Monument can help you compare wood caskets, metal caskets and cremation caskets in person, confirm practical details and arrange delivery to the funeral home or service location.
Sources and Further Reading
- Bereavement Authority of Ontario: Consumer Information Guide
- Ontario.ca: Arrange a funeral, burial, cremation, alkaline hydrolysis or scattering
- Casket and Funeral Supply Association of America: Casket Design
- Batesville: Casket Catalog Dimensions
- Empire Caskets: Oversized Casket Product Dimensions
- Green Burial Society of Canada: The Five Principles of Green Burial
- Cremation Association of North America: Industry Statistical Information