Cremation as an alternative to traditional burial has seen explosive growth over the past several decades, due in part to the decline in religious affiliation, financial constraints, and other reasons including the rise of environmental awareness campaigns promoting greener alternatives to reduce what many perceive as a “poisoning” of the earth caused by in-ground burials. Affordability is the most common factor.
Another major contributor to the rise in popularity of cremations is the flexibility with respect to when the deceased’s remains must be interred or where they may ultimately rest. Cremations, especially for those who have not pre-planned, can greatly reduce the unexpected financial burden on the surviving family members. It also allows additional time for family and friends to prepare and gather for services or other remembrance events.
Though cremations are typically a far less expensive alternative to traditional burials, a plan, as discussed in the section “Funerals & FAQ’s,” outlining your wishes as well as the finances to execute that plan is still the surest way to ensure that your last requests are carried out and that the financial impact levied upon your surviving family members is minimalized.
Flexibility in Alternatives
Many factors can affect the decision regarding cremation, especially if it the loss of a loved one is sudden and unexpected. American’s more than any other nation are a mobile people with family and friends sometimes stretching from coast-to-coast and as a result, planning for a memorial service and funeral can be all that more taxing at a time when emotions are raw and under a great deal of stress.
Cremation offers not only flexibility but portability in that they can be performed immediately, but the memorial service and ultimate disposition of the remains held at any time, even weeks or months later. For these reasons, many families choose direct cremation, while other families hold services just after, or shortly after the cremation their loved one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
How much is cremation vs. a traditional burial?
The cost of cremation is affected by several variables to include who the cremation provider is, the geographical location of the provider, and by any additional services the family may decide to include such as a memorial service, with viewing before cremation.
The costs for a “direct cremation” can be as low as a few hundred dollars or as high as $8000-$10000 where pre-cremation viewings and services are held.
How much do urns cost?
The costs for Urns vary widely depending upon the type of container used. Urns made from wood range from $50-$200 depending on the type of wood used and the size of the urn. Metal urns are generally an alloy composition or aluminum and can range from $100-$1,000. Porcelain urns are more expensive than wood or metal, but they are by far the most popular due to their look and finish. The cost for porcelain urns ranges from $400-$2,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the design and engraving.
How long is the cremation process and can I retrieve my loved ones remains immediately?
Several factors determine the amount of time required to initiate and complete the cremation. Factors such as the size and weight of the body, and the type and efficiency of the equipment used in the process all contribute to the length of time to complete the cremation. A typical cremation typically takes between 2-3 hours for flame-based processes and up to 16 hours for liquid cremation.
Most crematories have their own policies and timelines for their processes that determine how long it can take to have the cremains ready to release. The timeframe can range from one or two days or up to ten days depending upon the crematorium.
Are there laws in Maryland that dictate where I can store cremains and how I do so?
Maryland currently has no laws that govern where you can store or scatter your loved one’s ashes. Ashes can be kept in an urn or other container, a columbarium or mausoleum niche or crypt, in a traditional grave in a cemetery plot, or on the mantel in your home.
Do cemeteries in Maryland offer gardens for scattering cremains?
Many cemeteries in Maryland do offer peaceful and sometimes ornate gardens specifically designed for the scattering of ashes. No traditional burials or other invasive activities are permitted in these gardens, and they are generally well kept.
Can I scatter cremains anywhere I want to in Maryland?
Though Maryland has no laws governing the scattering of remains, it is recommended that you check with your city or county to ensure that there are no local restrictions. Scattering cremains on your own property is perfectly legal but check with property owners first if you plan to scatter them on private property.
Where can I learn more about cremation options and process?
You can find a wealth of information and resources by visiting the Cremation Association of North America. Funeral homes and many cemeteries around Maryland are also a good source for information and planning.