Cremation is an increasingly popular end-of-life option, but it can be challenging to estimate the cost. This is because many factors can affect the price of cremation services. If you’re curious about cremation, keep reading to learn more about the factors that can affect the cost of cremation.
Additional Viewing Costs
The cost of cremation can vary depending on the requested viewing services. If a viewing is to be held, the funeral home may charge an additional fee for staff and equipment needed to accommodate the event. The cost of cremation can also vary if you choose a traditional funeral service with embalming and a viewing casket. If you intend to bury the cremated remains, you’ll have to consider the cost of a funeral plot. If you choose both methods, you’ll have to pay the cost for both, so consider doing one or the other if you’re on a tight budget.
Special Requests
When someone chooses cremation as their final disposition, they may have specific requests for how they want their remains handled. Some people choose to have their ashes scattered in a special place, while others may want to mix them with another product. Many people choose to scatter their ashes in a place that has special meaning to them. This could be a park, a river, the ocean, or another location that is special to the individual. Some people even choose to have their ashes scattered from a plane or a hot air balloon. A funeral home can help you arrange a scattering session for an added cost.
Another common request is to place the remains in a beautiful urn. Some urns are made of inexpensive materials like plastic or resin, while others are made of more expensive materials like bronze or marble. There are some uncommon approaches to consider. Some people choose to have their ashes mixed with cement and used to create a memorial sculpture or other structure. This can be a beautiful way to remember a loved one and to keep their memory alive. Ashes can be turned into beautiful pieces of jewelry, such as rings, necklaces, or bracelets. This is a special way to keep a loved one close to you.
Location of Cremation
Where you choose to handle cremation can impact the overall cost. Some crematoriums offer more sustainable cremation options for a higher cost, while others provide numerous accommodations for special requests. Be sure the crematorium is located in an area that conforms to all applicable laws and regulations and is equipped with the necessary permits, licenses, and approvals. You’ll also want to choose a location that’s convenient for you to visit and offers services that meet your needs. The type of service you choose can also affect the cost of cremation. A simple direct cremation without any services will be less expensive than a traditional funeral with all the bells and whistles.
Amount of Fuel Used
The cremation process begins with the body being placed in a casket or combustible container. The container is then placed in the cremation chamber, where the temperature reaches 1,800 to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. After about two hours, the body is reduced to bone fragments. The cost of cremation can vary depending on how much fuel is used. For example, if the body is exposed to flames for longer, then the crematorium will use more fuel, and the cost will be higher. In contrast, if the body is exposed to flames for a shorter period, then the crematorium will use less fuel, and the cost will be lower.
Overall, several factors can affect the cost of cremation. It’s important to compare these factors when choosing the best option for a lost loved one.
