Differences between cremation and inhumation: which option to choose?
When a family is faced with the loss of a loved one who did not share their last wishes during their lifetime, one of the most difficult decisions to make is the choice between cremation and burial. These two options for disposal of the body differ in process, symbolism and cost.
Choosing between cremation and inhumation is a decision that should not be taken lightly. In order to do so, it is essential to consider the wishes of the deceased, their religious or cultural beliefs, as well as the family’s personal preferences.
This article explores the differences between cremation and inhumation and highlights the advantages of each option to help you or a loved one make an informed choice.
What is cremation?
Cremation consists of incinerating the body of a deceased person at very high temperatures (800 to 1,000°C) until only ashes remain. This process takes place in a specialized furnace, called a crematorium, and generally takes between 1 and 2 hours.
After cremation, the ashes of the deceased are collected and placed in a funerary urn. The family can then choose to keep the ashes, bury them or scatter them.
Advantages of cremation
Among the various ways of disposing of the body after death, cremation offers its share of advantages that deserve to be observed in depth.
Flexibility and personalization
Cremation offers great freedom of choice as to how ashes are disposed of. You can keep the ashes at home or in a columbarium. They can as well be scattered in a meaningful place.
You can also opt for a biodegradable urn and bury the ashes in a cemetery or other suitable place of commemoration. It is even possible to incorporate the ashes into commemorative objects, such as jewelry or reliquaries.
Low cost and low maintenance
Cremation is generally less expensive than burial. There are no costs associated with the purchase of a cemetery plot, the construction of the funeral monument or its maintenance.
At Crématorium Montréal, our basic cremation package is an affordable option that allows everyone to have access to dignity, even after their great departure.
What is inhumation?
Inhumation, also known as burial, is a traditional method of disposing of the body. With inhumation, the body of the deceased is placed in a coffin and buried in a cemetery. This process involves preparing the body, placing the coffin in a grave and, often, installing a funerary monument, also known as a headstone.
Burial provides a physical place where family and friends of the deceased can gather and pay their respects.
Advantages of inhumation
Like cremation, burial offers its own advantages as a means of disposing of the body following a death.
Traditions and perpetuity
Burial remains a deeply rooted practice in many cultures and religions. For some families, it represents a sacred rite that plays an important role in the grieving process.
A place of remembrance
Inhumation provides loved ones with a tangible, permanent place where they can go to honor the memory of the deceased. This can be a source of comfort to those who find solace in regular visits to the cemetery.
Why choose cremation as a method of body disposal?
Cremation is an increasingly popular body disposal option in the province of Quebec. Here are some of the reasons why 80% of its population chose cremation in 2024.
A flexible offer
One of the main advantages of cremation is the flexibility it offers families. Unlike burial, where the place of remembrance is limited to a cemetery, cremation allows families to choose a meaningful place of remembrance for the deceased and their loved ones.
A simple process
The cremation process is generally simpler and faster than that of burial. Fewer administrative formalities are required, easing the logistical burden on grieving families following the loss of a loved one.
An affordable option
As burial is more costly due to the purchase of a cemetery plot and the cost of maintaining the funeral monument, cremation is a more affordable alternative. What’s more, urns are available to suit all tastes and budgets.
Cremation or inhumation: how to make the right funeral choice?
The choice between cremation and burial in Montreal depends on a number of factors. Here are some criteria to help you make the best choice for you:
What are your beliefs, traditions and personal preferences?
The choice between cremation and burial often depends on the religious or cultural beliefs of the deceased or their family. Some religions prefer inhumation, while others recommend cremation.
What is your budget and what are your financial resources for long-term maintenance?
Cremation is generally a more cost-effective option for disposing of the body. It eliminates the expense of purchasing cemetery space and a memorial, in addition to the cost of maintenance, which must be carried out over the years.
Where and how would you like to pay your respects?
Cremation allows families to personalize the place of remembrance in a more flexible way, which can offer greater freedom to honor the memory of the deceased according to the personal preferences of the deceased or their family.
Crématorium Montréal: for a planned cremation or following a death
Whether you choose cremation or burial, each option offers advantages and features that can meet the specific needs of each family.
If you’d like to learn more about Crématorium Montréal’s services, please contact us. Our team can guide you towards a simplified cremation, whether you’re planning it yourself or following the death of a loved one.
FAQ (frequently asked questions)
What’s the difference between cremation and inhumation?
Cremation is a process in which the body is incinerated in a specialized high-temperature furnace. The ashes are then preserved in an urn, scattered or buried. Conversely, inhumation involves burying the body in a cemetery, often accompanied by a funerary monument.
Why choose cremation over inhumation?
Cremation is an increasingly popular option, thanks to its many advantages. Cremation is often more affordable and flexible than burial. In addition to offering the possibility of personalizing the burial site, cremation eliminates the costs associated with purchasing a cemetery plot and building and maintaining a funeral monument.
What is the average cost of a cremation in the Greater Montreal area?
The cost of a cremation in Montreal varies according to the services chosen. In general, cremation is less expensive than burial. By choosing not to have a ceremony or opting for an entry-level urn, you can make cremation a very affordable disposal option.
Is it possible to personalize funeral services when choosing cremation?
Cremation offers great freedom of personalization. Ashes can be placed in personalized funeral urns or even scattered in a meaningful location. Some families also choose to transform ashes into commemorative objects, such as jewelry or reliquaries.
Is it possible to make funeral prearrangements for a cremation?
Yes, it is definitely possible to make funeral prearrangements for a cremation. By planning your funeral prearrangements and cremation, you free your loved ones from many difficult decisions at the time of mourning and ensure that your wishes are respected.
Sources:
https://www.resonance-funeraire.com/magazine/actu/7196-funeraire-france-quebec-regards-croises.html
https://www.cremationassociation.org/uploads/1/4/7/4/147494009/2024statsreportsummary.pdf
READ MOREThe Cost of Cremation: A Complete Guide to Understanding and Optimizing Your Funeral Expenses
When a loved one passes away, or when we’re planning how to manage our grand farewell, the choice between cremation and burial is often influenced by a number of factors, including the financial aspect. Although cremation is generally a more economical option than burial, there are a number of costs to consider. By understanding the fees involved, you’ll be better prepared to make the financial decisions that are right for you.
This article explores the various costs associated with cremation in the Greater Montreal area and provides practical advice to help you reduce these expenses for peace of mind.
Understanding cremation costs
It’s essential to understand the costs involved in planning a cremation. Contrary to what you might think, this process is not limited to the act of cremation itself. Various costs can be added, including preparation of the body, purchase of an urn and optional funeral services. By exploring each of these aspects, you’ll be able to manage expenses more effectively and make informed choices that respect your budget.
Basic cremation costs
The cost of the cremation itself varies according to the service provider but generally includes cremation of the body and preparation of the deceased. In Montreal, these costs can vary from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
Cost of funeral urns
Funeral urns are available at prices ranging from $50 to several hundred dollars. Prices vary according to material, design and personalization requirements. There are also different models of biodegradable urns at different costs.
Additional costs for funeral services
Funeral services can include handling administrative paperwork, organizing a ceremony and transporting the deceased from the place of death to the crematorium. These costs are often billed separately.
Ashes disposal options
If you choose to place your ashes in a columbarium, additional costs apply for niche rental. In Montreal, these costs vary according to the length of the rental and the size of the niche.
Choosing cremation over burial: an economical option
Burial involves a number of additional costs, such as cemetery services, the construction of a burial vault and the acquisition of a funeral monument. These costs can quickly add up to several thousand dollars.
By choosing cremation, families also avoid certain fixed long-term costs, such as monument or cemetery maintenance, which can ease the financial burden. Crématorium Montréal offers flexible choices for urns and ash management, making cremation service simple and affordable.
Request a free online funeral quote to learn more about Crématorium Montréal’s customized services.
How to save on cremation costs
Financial considerations can add an extra layer of stress to the loss of a loved one, which is already a difficult ordeal. Fortunately, it is possible to manage expenses effectively without compromising the quality of funeral services.
Choosing a simple funeral package
Crématorium Montréal offers a basic package that includes cremation, standard urn and administrative fees at a flat rate. This type of package reduces expenses while offering quality service.
Limiting the selection of funeral services
It is possible to reduce costs by opting for minimal services. For example, you may decide to skip the ceremony. This solution may suit those who prefer a simple, discreet approach to their grand farewell or that of a deceased loved one.
Opting for a more affordable urn
Funeral urns can represent a significant portion of the total budget for a cremation service. Fortunately, Crématorium Montréal has a wide range of affordable, quality urns to suit your tastes and needs.
Financing solutions for cremation
Planning for cremation and prearranged funeral services can be a financial burden. Thankfully, there are solutions to help alleviate this stress and provide greater financial flexibility.
Payment plans
Many crematoriums in Montreal offer payment plans, allowing families to spread out the costs over several months. This makes it easier to manage expenses without sacrificing service quality.
Funeral insurance
Some life or funeral insurance policies cover cremation costs, providing immediate financial relief. Check with your insurance provider to determine if this coverage is included.
Crématorium Montréal: simple, affordable and professional
Crématorium Montréal’s basic cremation package is an excellent option for those looking for a simplified, affordable solution. It offers all the essentials to ensure a dignified, hassle-free cremation.
Here are the services included in our complete basic package:
- Transportation of the body from the place of death to the crematorium.
- Preparation and preservation (refrigeration) of the body, ensuring respectful treatment of the deceased.
- Cremation, carried out in modern, secure facilities.
- A transport urn, ideal for transferring ashes.
- Declaration of death to the Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages, simplifying the administrative process.
- Proof of death and cremation certificate, essential for legal and family formalities.
This package offers a complete, cost-effective solution, ensuring that every step of the process is handled professionally. It allows families to concentrate on the essentials, while being confident that the logistical aspects are being handled with care.
Find professional, affordable funeral services in Montreal
Whether you’re planning your big departure or dealing with the death of a loved one, funeral services don’t have to be a source of financial stress. Crématorium Montréal’s services are tailored to your budget and your wishes.
For personalized advice on planning a simple, affordable cremation in the Greater Montreal area, contact the Crématorium Montréal team. We’re here to guide you every step of the way and help you make the best decisions for yourself or a loved one.
FAQ (frequently asked questions)
What are the typical costs associated with cremation in Montreal?
Costs for a cremation service in Montreal generally range from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the services chosen. However, additional costs may apply for services such as the funeral ceremony, transportation of the deceased or the choice of a more elaborate urn.
What services are included in Crématorium Montréal’s basic packages?
Crématorium Montréal’s basic packages generally include cremation, management of administrative documents, and a basic urn. Some packages may also include additional services such as body preparation and transportation. For more details, please contact our team.
How much does a funeral urn cost?
The cost of funeral urns varies according to material, model and personalization. The cost of a basic urn starts at around $50, while more sophisticated or personalized models can cost several hundred dollars. There are also environmentally friendly options, such as biodegradable urns, available at competitive prices from Crématorium Montréal.
Is it possible to reduce cremation costs?
Yes, it is possible to reduce cremation costs by choosing a simple package, avoiding non-essential services such as a complex ceremony, or opting for a more affordable urn.
Are there financing options for cremation?
Some crematoriums offer payment plans. In addition, some life or funeral insurances may cover cremation costs. We recommend that you contact your family care advisor to learn more about the payment options available.
READ MORE