What is the purpose of a burial vault?

A burial vault primarily serves the purpose of protecting caskets from the weight of the earth and other elements. By creating a sealed environment, a burial vault prevents grave robbing by deterring unauthorized access to the casket and its contents. This protective measure not only secures the integrity of the burial site but also helps maintain the appearance of the grave over time, reducing the likelihood of cave-ins or sinking ground.

While vaults can often feature decorative components that may contribute to the overall aesthetic of a gravesite, this is not their primary function. Furthermore, storing cremated remains is not relevant in this context since cremation involves a different approach to handling remains. Similarly, while a burial vault might contribute to memorial aspects, that is not its core purpose compared to the vital role it plays in ensuring the security and preservation of a traditional burial.